So What To Do With Koji

Koji pitched a solid 5 innings today giving up 2 runs and 7 hits. I agree with Trembley’s decision on taking Koji out after the 5th, as he was starting to look winded. My concern, this is his second start back from his injury, and he only lasted 5 innings on a cool night in Baltimore.

With the weather being on the cool side tonight, I thought it would of played in Koji’s favor a little more. It was a little disappointing that he only made it to the 5th and got winded and sluggish that quick. I have to wonder how he will handle it when he starts playing in extreme heat. Maybe it’s his conditioning or he just can’t go deep into games anymore, but it has to be a concern.

Eventually, you have to wonder if Koji will be moved to the pen as a long reliever. The last two seasons in Japan he spent time in the pen, so he has some experience. If this is something we decide to do, I would be all for cutting Hendrickson, moving Koji to the pen and bring back Hernandez. But, on the other hand, if Koji keeps giving us at least five solid innings, than leave him in the rotation. He is one of our most reliable pitchers so far this season, I’d hate to see him sitting in the pen.