2006 versus 2009: Pitching Staff

2006 Starting Rotation

Kenny Rogers
Jeremy Bonderman
Nate Robertson
Mike Maroth (later Zach Miner)
Justin Verlander

Projected 2009 Opening Day Rotation

Justin Verlander
Edwin Jackson
Armando Galarraga
Rick Porcello
Zach Miner

Total number of wins by the 6 starters listed above in 2006: 73

If the 5 starters plus Bonderman approach that number in 2009, we will be in very good shape.

Here are my guesses for wins in 2009:
Verlander: 16
Jackson: 13
Galarraga : 15
Porcello: 5
Miner: 5
Bonderman: ?

Total without Bonderman: 54. If Jeremy can come back strong and wins 10-12 games, this makes the number jump to the mid 60's, which is much better. If he cannot, then I see this as a major dropoff from 2006.

The bullpen in 2006 was outstanding. They had 46 saves, 16 blown saves and 75 holds. Can this years group match that? Can Brandon Lyon match Todd Jones numbers from 2006 (37 saves and 6 blown saves)? Will Joel come back and be productive? Can Ryan Perry be a consistent major leaguer and fill the Zumaya role? These guys will have their opportunities.

The staff ERA in 2006 was 3.85, WHIP was 1.318 and opponents batting average was .257. It seems unlikely that they'll be able to match these numbers this year. However, it comes down to whether Justin can be dominate again & whether Jeremy can come back and be good. Also, will Porcello be a productive starter at the age of 20 and what happens in the 5th spot.


Overall, it seems like Kenny, Justin, Zach and Jeremy all had good -to- great years in 2006 that the guys in those spots probably will not be able to match. Justin is capable of winning 20 games, but the way he pitched last year, I do not see it. If he starts consistently pitching in the high 90's and occasionally touching 100, then he has a shot. However, I haven't seen him do that since his no-hitter in 2007.


Advantage: 2006