2018.2 - What's Wrong with Antonio Rodriguez?

[recchem2000]

We all know pitching wins championships right? Well, thus far into the 2018 season the Chicago Black Sox starting pitching is no where near championship form. Through 46 games the Sox starters have posted a 4.99 ERA good for 2nd to last in the Johnson League. However the team sits 10 games over .500, just a game and half back of Yellow Springs. The bats have been great but how long can they keep it up? They have posted the 2nd best average in the Johnson League (.290) and have scored 230 runs, good for 3rd in the league.

The main culprit behind Chicago's lousy pitching start has been Antonio Rodriguez. Rodriguez started the year slowly, posting a 5.71 ERA in 6 starts in April. He's been worse in May. 4 starts, 0-3 with a 12.89 ERA! All this from a guy with a career ERA of 3.84. A season ago, Antonio won 16 games and posted an ERA of 3.49. His struggles have us scratching our heads in Chicago. Not much we can do but ride the wave and hope he turns it around quickly.

Rodriquez is not alone. #2 starter Terrence Miller is also struggling, just not as bad as the #1 guy. Miller is just 4-5 with a 5.40 ERA. His last start makes me think possibly he's ready to hit his stride (6 & 1/3 inning, 1 ER).

Perhaps its the defense behind these guys but its the best I can throw out there at this time. If Chicago is going to stay in the hunt for a playoff spot, both Rodriquez and Miller are going to have to start pitching like a #1 and #2 starter!

[trmmilwwi]

Those starting pitchers have to get going at some point... right?!

[7teen]

I'm not sure what the reason for this is. But like Tim said, he (they) have to get going at some point. I'm a believer in law of averages which would indicate Rodriguez begins to have a hell of a season from here on.

Either that or his dip in slider rating is just killing his ability to be an effective starter.

[recchem2000]

One thing I've noticed is both guys really struggling have a very high BIBIP and a much lower FIP. So I have to assume my defense is sucking at the moment right?

[recte44]

Yes.

[felipe]

I'd say its down to bad luck at the moment