Alexi Ogando back in the rotation

[Herr28]

Just read on mlb.com that Alexi Ogando will be back in the starting rotation down here in Texas again. He was an All Star starter in 2011, the first time he was in the rotation, but ended the season back in the 'pen. I wonder if the extra innings that season cost him and wore him down before the World Series (Cardinals beat him up: 6 G, 2.2 IP, 7 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 7 BB, 3 K, 10.13 ERA, 5.25 WHIP). He will be in the rotation with: Matt Harrison, Yu Darvish, and Derek Holland. The article's author, TR Sullivan, said that the 5th spot will be up for grabs with Robbie Ross, non-roster invitees Randy Wells and Kyle McClellan, and rookies Martin Perez, Justin Grimm, Nick Tepesch and Cody Buckel.

The article concentrated on lefty Ross and his attempt to join the rotation. Ross did a fine job last year as a rookie lefty specialist for the Rangers, and I would kind of like to keep him there. Just my opinion, but I really liked him in his role last year. Any opinions on these other guys? I know McClellan went from reliever to starter just like Ogando in 2011. He did a decent job filling in for the injured Adam Wainwright, but went back to the pen when we got Jackson in that trade with Toronto. The extra work forced LaRussa to keep him off the postseason roster, for fear he would be worn down. Also, no mention of Feliz. What is happening with him?

So what do you all think about Alexi going back to the rotation? Any idea who will take the 5th spot?

[filihok]

Also, no mention of Feliz. What is happening with him?

He had Tommy John surgery in August. Typically, pitchers come back in about 12 months.

Take two Nationals pitchers, Jordan Zimmermann and Stephen Strasburg. Zimmermann had surgery in August of 2009, and was back in the bigs in August 2010. Strasburg had surgery in September of 2010 and was back in the bigs in September 2011.

Expect Feliz back in August/September of this year.

So what do you all think about Alexi going back to the rotation?

Good idea.
He's much more valuable as a starter than as a reliever.

Any idea who will take the 5th spot?

Colby Lewis will be in the mix. Depends on his health. He had elbow issues last year. If he's healthy, he's the guy.

[Herr28]

Yeah, that's right. Now I remember. Thanks. My brother was slowly dying of cancer, and most of the end of the season is just a blur. I really hope he sticks in the rotation all year, he was great in the first half back in '11. A healthy Lewis is better than the other options to round out the staff too.