Three, Possibly Four Southpaws In Rotation

[moldyoldie]

As of this writing, the Tigers starting rotation would consist of:

-Jeremy Bonderman R
-Kenny Rogers L
-Mike Maroth L
-Nate Robertson L
-Either Colon R, Verlander R, Zumaya R, Ledezma L, or another.

Off the top of my head, I can't think of another rotation for any team in any year with as many southpaws. Can anyone help me out?

[RottenGazebo]

I hope they don't use Ledezma, I hope they use Colon. Use the others for the bullpen.

[racosun]

I think the Pirates have more lefties to sort through than we do. It'll be curious to see if either of us keep four out of ST.

They really can't have four lefty's on the staff, so you can rule out Ledezma. I'd personally go with either Verlander or Zumaya for the fifth spot, whichever shows the most polish out of ST. The other would be the ace @ Toledo until midseason, barring a spectacular start to the season. Perhaps we'll still move a pitcher, such as Maroth or Robertson, to make room for both of the young bucks in '06.

My rotation (in order):
Bonderman
Rogers
Verlander
Maroth
Robertson

Colon, Zumaya and Ledezma would all be in Toledo's rotation to begin the year, with one or two possibly being moved out to acquire a third-baseman for the big club.

[Twisted Wicker]

Yeah, if I remember correctly, the Pirates might have had 4 lefties in their rotation last year.

I'm also really hoping the Tigers have Verlander starting the season as the fifth starter. Ledezma doesn't seem to want to be there too much, based on the way he's been playing the last few years.

I'd rather have Colon as a long reliever than a AAA starter, though.

[RottenGazebo]

My rotation in order:
1. Bonderman
2. Robertson
3. Rogers
4. Colon
5. Maroth

Leave the AAAers for the bullpen.

[HDH]

left handed dominant staffs

In 2003, the Oakland A's were successful with a 3-left handed pitching rotation of the following: Mark Mulder, Barry Zito, and Ted Lilly. They had their 70's dynast using Vida Blue, Ken Holtzman, and Dave Hamilton (6th man).

I remember the Yankees had a 4-5 man rotation in the early 80s with Ron Guidry, Tommy John, Dave Righetti, and Rudy May / Tom Underwood.

Also, the Phillies used Steve Carlton, Randy Learch, and Jim Kaat when they were leaders in the late 70's

Overall, I prefer a left handed dominant pitching staff.

[RottenGazebo]

Yeah, if I remember correctly, the Pirates might have had 4 lefties in their rotation last year.

I'm also really hoping the Tigers have Verlander starting the season as the fifth starter. Ledezma doesn't seem to want to be there too much, based on the way he's been playing the last few years.

I'd rather have Colon as a long reliever than a AAA starter, though.

I disagree, I think Colon is a great pitcher with a lot of potential. He had great starts last year for never taking the role. And he did a whole lot better than that AA starter Douglas.