Inkster Defends His #5
At 6’5”, 205 pounds, Colon remains a bit of an enigma, imposing enough in stature, but getting along on a good curve, a low-heat fastball, and the ability to go slow, slower, and slowest on the change of pace. In his first four seasons, that was enough to be valuable as he racked up a 39-27 record at the back end of the Nine rotation. His 2040, in particular, was a breath of fresh air in which he went 14-7 and posted a 4.00 ERA (118 ERA+). The club was happy enough they signed him to a solid $12M deal that included a team option over its third season—a season that is coming up in 2043.
Colon struggled last season, but entered 2042 saying he was ready to go. After two outings (a start and a bullpen endeavor), Colon is 0-1 with an unenviable 8.53 ERA. His BABIP is .417. Definitely not the kind of thing you expect.
Now some are wondering if it’s time to trade Colon and his nice little contract in deference to one of the kids.
Colbert, specifically, looks ready to go, though some still prefer Henson.
“It’s too early in the season for that kind of malarkey, said manager Bill Inkster. “We're only two weeks in, for cryin' out loud. I challenge any reporter who thinks he should be traded to stand up there and face Luis with a bat in his hand. Let the guy pitch and things will be fine.”