Tavarez hit 15 in ‘02
New Red Sox pitcher Julian Tavarez was a bit of a “wild thing” in his days as a starter, hitting 15 batters for the Florida Marlins in 2002.
Since his move to the bullpen, he’s shown a surprising amount of control—at least on the field. While known for having a bit of temper, Tavarez has dramatically improved his walk-strikeout ratio. In fact, over the last two seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals, he’s averaged 19 BBs and 48 strikeouts per 75 innings.
Less than a strikeout per inning doesn’t exactly make Tavarez a candidate to replace Keith Foulke. The fact he doesn’t issue many walks certainly makes him an asset out of the pen.
Perhaps Tavarez’ most important role will be in the clubhouse. A former Cleveland farmhand, he started his minor league career with Manny Ramirez. With Manny’s former babysitter Kevin Millar in Baltimore, Tavarez could play a larger part in the team’s success than any of the new acquisitions.
Since his move to the bullpen, he’s shown a surprising amount of control—at least on the field. While known for having a bit of temper, Tavarez has dramatically improved his walk-strikeout ratio. In fact, over the last two seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals, he’s averaged 19 BBs and 48 strikeouts per 75 innings.
Less than a strikeout per inning doesn’t exactly make Tavarez a candidate to replace Keith Foulke. The fact he doesn’t issue many walks certainly makes him an asset out of the pen.
Perhaps Tavarez’ most important role will be in the clubhouse. A former Cleveland farmhand, he started his minor league career with Manny Ramirez. With Manny’s former babysitter Kevin Millar in Baltimore, Tavarez could play a larger part in the team’s success than any of the new acquisitions.
posted by Joe D' at 7:24 AM
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