Understanding Oliver Perez

Currently Oliver Perez is 2-1 with a 3.31 ERA. These days statistics like that are very respectable for a starting pitcher. It’s certainly not bordering on Bob Gibson territory, but respectable.

Perez’ stats don’t tell the whole story. He’s been a roller coaster ride full of extreme highs and extreme lows. I have a feeling that we need to get used to that. His story is the opposite of Tom Glavine, who’s been the model of consistency over his long career.

Yesterday, Perez was masterful through the sixth inning.  He ended up going 6.2 innings with 9 K’s and no walks. That’s right… no walks!  Who would’ve ever guessed that?

I can see that Rick Peterson has made some improvements while coaching Perez. He doesn’t look like he’s overthrowing his fastball as often as he used to. Now the key is to start working on consistently good starts.

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