Sticking Points 2052.4: I Ain't Gonna Work on Denny's Farm No More

[JimSlade]

Veteran reliever Juan Manual wants out of Rockville. "I have given too much to this organization that is no longer concerned with winning," he declared, as reporters approached his locker following last Thursday's blown save opportunity against the Charm City Jimmies, a performance in which Manual flamed out in spectacular fashion, giving up 6 runs on 3 hits and 3 walks, not retiring a single batter, in the 8th inning.

Bob Dylan's nearly 90-year-old protest anthem "Maggie's Farm" played in the background. "You've seen my track record," he continued, looking past the recent tracks of a .416 BABIP, diminishing rates of strikeouts per 9 innings and ground balls, a 2+ WHIP, and the like. "I have what a contender needs!"

An anonymous player told me later that night that teammates in the vicinity of his locker lingered in the shower, risking "shrinkage," as he put it, rather than be asked for comment.

Manager Denny Dooley had no comment. Pitching coach David Brown would only say, "It's a matter of Juan simply honing his mechanics. We know it's going to click again."

Rockville's pitching staff has been unable to find its rhythm. Veterans Nathanial Davis and Matt McCartney, expected to bridge the development of a crop of younger starters, have been up and down. The trade of young closer Edward Johnson, in a year in which Manual has blown up, has not helped matters in the pen. It's a scary time in Rockville when there's no relief for the relief corps.

[recte44]

Davis is especially frustrating, as he can be so dominant in stretches and then completely fall apart.

[JimSlade]

Davis is especially frustrating, as he can be so dominant in stretches and then completely fall apart.

You should know! I'm going to stick with him, but he will require some patience.

[jiminyhopkins]

I clicked because the headline said Denny's

[bschr682]

Actually I did that too. I was like how did Phoenix post a team news in the Rockville forum…