Sunday, February 13, 2000
STARTING PITCHING
Hey, buddy, can you spare an arm?
BY CHRIS HAFT
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Even before Brett Tomko departed for Seattle in the Ken Griffey Jr. trade, the Reds needed depth in their starting rotation.
Expect General Manager Jim Bowden to try to engineer another deal that will add a starter. Outfielder Dmitri Young, who the Reds offered to Seattle during the Griffey talks, could remain a tradeable commodity, especially if he wins his salary arbitration case.
The Reds also may experiment with switching Dennys Reyes, Gabe White or Scott Williamson — all former starters — back into the rotation. But to make that transition successfully, the process would have to begin early in camp.
The top four are set — barring injuries or breakdowns. Though Cincinnati's starters posted a respectable 4.35 ERA last year, fourth-best in the National League, each projected member of the rotation seems vulnerable in some way.
Pete Harnisch and Denny Neagle must prove they overcame the shoulder problems that plagued them last year. Neither Steve Parris nor Ron Villone has started for a full major-league season.
The Reds may spend all year wondering about Harnisch and Neagle, though they've already begun to allay fears. Harnisch reported no pain after doing his usual offseason throwing and intensifying his exercise program. Neagle improved enough by the end of last season to win his final six starts.
After beginning the season in Triple-A, Parris and Villone combined to finish 20-11 while saving the rotation from disaster. Tomko, who has the best pure stuff on the staff, will receive every opportunity to realize his potential.
Leading candidates to move into the rotation include 13-year veteran Mark Portugal, former San Diego Padre Heath Murray, ex-Pittsburgh Pirate Elmer Dessens and rookie Rob Bell. Left-hander Ty Howington, last year's first-round draft choice, will be in camp but is expected to start the season in the lower minors.
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