With Falling Velocity, Can Buchholz Re-Invent Himself Like Pedro Did?
BOSTON (CBS) - Clay Buchholz didn't have such a great season debut last Saturday against the Brewers. The 29-year-old lasted just 4.1 innings, giving up six runs on 13 hits, including two home runs.
Buchholz did however get off to a great start in 2013, going 11-1 before being sidelined for three months with a neck injury.
Since then, the starting pitcher just hasn't been the same. Red Sox fans are frustrated with him, and so are Andy Gresh and Scott Zolak. On Thursday, the two discussed the matter and what the future holds for him.
Zo compared Buchholz to Pedro Martinez, and how Martinez reinvented himself at the end of his career. Zo doubts that Buchholz could do the same if he is truly losing velocity on his throws.
"If this guys arm ever fell off, I don't know if he has the mental fortitude to ever reinvent himself," Zo said. "And maybe his arm is falling off."
Gresh also heaped praise on Martinez, calling him a valuable pitcher who the team would treat differently and allow extra rest so they could have him for crunch time. Gresh isn't sure if Buchholz is in that same category, however.
"He was the one, I do believe, at the beginning of camp, talked about, 'I'm a little behind everybody because the Red Sox told me not to throw,'" Gresh said. "Alright, well if you're a little behind they're making special circumstances for special people. But is Clay Buchholz such a special pitcher that you're going to go out of your way long term to try and manage him to get something out of him?
"Is he worth the hassle? That's what it really comes down to. Pedro was worth it," Gresh concluded.
Listen below for the full discussion:
Sean McAdam of CSNNE is down in New York covering the Sox for tonight's game against the Yankees. He was also critical of Buchholz, just hours before he's set to take the mound.
McAdam On Buchholz: "Sometimes You Have To Go Out And Take The Ball At Less Than 100%":
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