Niemann hurt?
RHP Jeff Niemann, the Rays most advanced starting pitching prospect, left his start for Triple-A Durham tonight after throwing just five pitches to the first batter.
The Rays said he was removed from the game "as a precaution due to right shoulder fatigue.'' He will be examined further but the Rays said "early reports are fairly positive.''
Niemann had an 11-5 record and 3.82 in what had been his first injury-free pro season, and recently had the honor of not only being selected for the All-Star Futures Game but starting for the U.S. team.
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Thanks Andrew for letting him wallow in the minors, ruin any trade value he had, and never giving him a chance in the majors. I like seeing Seo, Fossum, Hendrickson, Waecter, McClung, Ryu, Camp, Jackson, Harville, Walker, Switzer, Dohman, and of course Josh Wilson pitching so much better than the guy we drafted number one to start for us... thanks
Posted by: Ronnie C | July 30, 2007 at 09:16 PM
Arm stiffness and fatigue is to be expected.He is nearing his innings limit for the year.Last year he only pitched in 80 innings, and is nearing 120 now.
Posted by: Steve Liddell | July 31, 2007 at 05:28 AM
To Ronnie C, why would you bring up Niemann at this stage of his career ? look at his stats this year 3.82 ERA and a WHIP near 1.5, this in AAA. How do you think that type of form would translate in the majors ? the guy would get shelled. The Drays under no circumstances should send him up, all it would do is ruin his confidence and possibly set him back a great deal.
Posted by: Steve | July 31, 2007 at 06:53 AM