Time for Sox-Vizcaino to reunite?
Remember Luis Vizcaino from the 2005 World Series champion White Sox?
Probably not, because Vizcaino was proficient in his obscure role as middle reliever, going 6-5 with a 3.73 ERA in 65 appearances.
Here’s the general rule of thumb with relief pitchers _ if you ever hear about them, odds are they aren’t performing.
Take Mike MacDougal for example. The White Sox finally grew tired of his failure and cut the cord on Tuesday.
On Thursday, the Cubs did the same with Vizcaino, even though the 34-year-old veteran was unscored upon in 3 2/3 innings this season.
Vizcaino is making way too much money ($3.5 million) for the Sox to absorb, but expect them to put in a waiver claim and see what happens.
If all goes well, the White Sox and Cubs could work out a trade that includes plenty of cash going to the South Side.
MacDougal couldn’t get the job done out of the bullpen in the early going, and you have to wonder about his replacement _ minor-leaguer Jack Egbert _along with holdovers Clayton Richard and D.J. Carrasco.
Vizcaino is reliable, and that’s the No. 1 quality for a relief pitcher.
Vizcaino eats up a lot of innings. You can say that for him. Not always on, but generally solid, and at least, he can save some wear and tear on the rest of the bullpen. MacDougal has great stuff, but unfortunately, there are three things he couldn't do: 1) Eat innings, 2) Get anybody out, 3) Throw a strike. As far as the Cubs, yes, I hope they pick up MacDougal. I'd also like to see them get Kyle Farnsworth back, but only if he could also stay in Kansas City's bullpen at the same time.
Why woudl we want this guy? hes garbage now! i'd rather give egbert a chance.
Why did the Cubs feel the need to make this move now and likely have to eat so much more money? Why didn't we wait until a righty reliever was struggling mightily, someone got injured, or a starter went down? I feel like we would have better off keeping a guy who started 0.00 out of the gate and saving Samradzija for when the rotation or bullpen needs reinforcements.
Hopefully Cubs can take McDougal and Sox Vizcaino for a even swap.