Bob Walk: Tough For Middle Relievers To Be Consistent
PITTSBURGH (KDKA 93-7 The Fan)- Pirates broadcaster Bob Walk joined Tab Douglas Saturday on Bucco Talk.
Douglas said that he has some concerns about the Pirates middle relief, but Walk says the nature of the role makes it hard to be consistent.
"They're the ones that never get any consistent playing time. If you look at, say, Jeanmar (Gomez) and Stolmy (Pimentel), they might pitch three days out of five and then maybe sit there for a week to 10 days and not even get up and throw in the bullpen," Walk said.
Doulas said Jared Hughes has been an unsung hero, and Walk agreed.
"With the (Jason Grilli) trade, he's become much more important. I wouldn't be surprised to see him maybe get, let's say, one or two saves by the end of the season," Walk said.
Walk added that Hughes could be an option if Mark Melancon needs a day of rest.
"I think that Hughes has come far enough up the totem pole where he's going to get some looks in those situations," he said.