From Closer to Starter

From closer to starter, from a batting practice pitcher to an unhittable pitcher, he has come along way. Little really can be said to tell you exactly how good Fausto is but he definitely made a name for himself this season. Interesting how much faith a team can have in a player and stick with him through the bad times.

Did you know the Indians traded Bob Wickman to the Braves because they thought they found there closer of the future in Fausto Carmona? Well that turned into a nightmare when Carmona could not get anyone out while he was in that roll. Before you knew it in 2006 he was demoted to triple A Buffalo to play with the Indians farm team. Indians fans all over the globe were wondering if trading slim Wickman was the correct move quickly after seeing Carmona as he became the biggest gas can in the American league.

After being demoted I guess put some fear or heart into his game because the kid got better. Before the 2007 season started Carmona was still pitching in Buffalo but was doing a decent job as a Starter? Yes the Indians decided well if the kid can not close let’s use him as a spot starter on the Pro team if needed. Quickly the time speed away as Cliff Lee went down with an injury and it was time for Fausto to get his shot. The 23 year old kid decided it was his opportunity to be what the Indians thought he could be. He stepped in and never looked back this season he was one of the most dominant pitchers in all of baseball. Opposing hitters were saying that he had better movement then Santana and probably is the best pitcher in the league.

Fausto started 32 games in 2007 winning 19 of them and only lost 8. Striking out 137 batters in 215 innings and only walking 61 while the opponents batting averaged slipped down to .248. That is .050 down from his 2006 season. During this season he beat Johan Santana twice and after a start Tori Hunter was quoted "I can't wait until we face normal pitchers. This guy's sinker is practically unhittable."

Once he was placed into the starting rotation I was quite worried about him being a starter. After the first few starts I was amazed how the kid turned his career around. Fausto is one of the reasons the tribe has made it this far into the post season. Without the gamble by the Indians coaching staff I am not sure if the Tribe would be about to start a series with the Red Sox.

Lights Out!
Mike
www.nolimitsportsline.com