Santana--to pitch or not to pitch?

[linkmaster]

With the twins now being so close to winning the division, the decision must come. Do they pitch Johan Santana on the last day of the regular season as scheduled? Or do they save him for the post-season and possibly settle for the wildcard? Here's a good article that debates both sides of the argument:

"The Minnesota Twins stand 1 1/2 games out of first place in the American League Central division heading into tonight's action. With seven games left to play as opposed to the Detroit Tigers six, it's possible that the Twins quest for the divsion title could come down to the final day of the season on Sunday. Scheduled to pitch that day at home against the Chicago White Sox is none other than left handed ace Johna Santana...."

http://www.sportsmemo.com/handicappers/veno/blog/1652/?PHPSESSID=3dcd7edb695a342731d867ccab5fdd23

This writer ultimately thinks they should try to win the division so they would face Oakland in the first round. I agree, because I think they have a better chance of winning with home-field advantage against Oakland with only one Santana start than w/o home-field against the Yanks and 2 Santana starts. Then if they beat Oakland, Santana will get at least 2 starts in the second round. What do you think?

[KCGHOST]

Winning the division is about he only reason to pitch him. Even in a five-game series he can go twice if he starts the first one.

[insanefishpossay]

If we're playing for the division title, then yes. If not, then no.

He already has the Cy-Young wrapped up, no sense in putting him out there in a meaningless game.

[Waitinfor27]

I say start him on Sun. so we don't have to face him in Game One if we play you guys!!!

[zortapa]

I wonder if his contract has an incentive clause that kicks-in if he wins 20 games during the regular season.....?

If so, and he has 19 wins going into the last game of the season, then I think I would have him start the 1st playoff game and let that count as his 20th win if he wins that game.

-Eric

[linkmaster]

Doesn't look like any pitcher will reach 20 wins this year