My opinion: Chico should've been sent down

[wilkerson_rulz-06]

As most of you may know, Jim Bowden has changed his mind about Shawn Hill and it is expected he WILL pitch tomorrow against Philadelphia, making his first start since getting injured a few months ago.

Bowden made the decision AFTER he say Matt Chico walk 6 batters and allow 5 runs in about 5 innings of work against Arizona and Livan Hernandez a few games ago, a game in which the Nationals lost big.

It is worth noting that Chico's control issues are a big concern, as he's walked a whopping 21 batters in his last 32 innings pitched...and I just get a gut feeling that he should've been sent down to get his head back in place.

But no, Bowden sent the terrible Billy Traber to the minors and Acta moved Mike Bacsik to the 'pen.

I don't like Traber much and I know he was struggling, but I think some hardcore AAA time would've done Chico some good heading into September and next year.

[DCPSR]

Chico is clearly struggling after a promising start to the season. I don't think sending him down helps any. If anything, Acta should have considered keeping Bascik in the rotation and allowing Chico to do long relief while he works himself out of the funk he is in. Fact is, I would rather have Chico in the game than Traber. Traber pitched well, but it is what it is.

[KingJ]

Considering we have nothing to play for, Traber and King stink androster limits expand to 40 soon, I think Chico should stay. He'll eventually get better and sending him down would only ruin his morale. Keep him the rest of the year then have Dewilter, Balester, Lannan, Hanrahan, Chico, Hill, O'Connor and all that compete for the 5 rotation spots in Spring Training 2008.

[Peorgie T]

It is worth noting that Chico's control issues are a big concern, as he's walked a whopping 21 batters in his last 32 innings pitched...and I just get a gut feeling that he should've been sent down to get his head back in place.

After yet another poor start, Chico's going down to make room for Wily Mo.

[wilkerson_rulz-06]

After yet another poor start, Chico's going down to make room for Wily Mo.

I wonder if his AZ counterpart, Garrett Mock, will get a shot once the rosters expand, even if he is struggling.