WHIV 2058.7- Checking the Locks: Starting Pitchers

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Sure Fire Locks (4):
Jose Barron, RHP- Big Free Agent signing. Despite his intangibles being less than ideal, and somehow folks believe he's "fragile" though he hasn't missed a start like ever, the Hustlers went all in on the 32 year old veteran who has pitched pretty well over his career. It's an interestingly structured contract that protects the Hustlers in case he tanks.

Mahad "Furball" Einan, RHP- Las Vegas and Einan both agree that last year should be written off as some kid of anomaly. Why he finished with 39 homers allowed and a 5.68 ERA remains a mystery. Everyone is counting on him to come back in a big way.

Bret Harrell, LHP- Harrell, now in his third season, was the Hustlers' most consistent starter last year after beginning the year in the bullpen (for the second year in a row, actually). That won't be the case in 2058 as Harrell is locked into the rotation now, though he remains a five to six inning starter.

Mike Alexander, RHP- Along with Harrell, Alexander provided just what the Hustlers hoped he would. He was a consistent performer all season long, and got the team to their bullpen. Expect more of the same this year.

Near Locks (1):

Edgar Sosa, RHP- All signs point to Sosa having the inside track on the fifth starter job, given the club spent the money on him to do so. He has a very important Spring Training.

Trying To Break In (1):

Kyle McKinlay, RHP- A solid reliever for the Hustlers in 2057, they told the 32 year old McKinlay he'd have a shot to start some games in 2058. He is the competition for Sosa, and also the Hustlers main depth throughout the season. He's a lock in the bullpen if he doesn't beat out Sosa for a rotation spot.

Breaking In The Back Door (0):
All of the others are being reviewed in the Relief Pitchers article.