This doesn’t come as a surprise at all because a)we knew that Joel Zumaya was coming back and b)Bonine hasn’t pitched well and he’s the candidate with options. Really, the only question now is how does Zumaya fit into the bullpen? Ryan Perry and Bobby Seay have combined to be the primary set-up men. Does Zumaya bump one (probably Perry the other right hander) or does he just get mixed in?
The other question is does Bonine head down to be a starter or does he continue to work from the pen?
Eddie Bonine demoted to make room for Joel Zumaya | detnews.com | The Detroit News
Bonine should work on his long relief skills at AAA instead of starting. We have much more potential need for him in that capacity right now if he comes back to the team.
Eddie Bonine is probably a wonderful young man and I have great sympathy for him with respect to his mothers illness. That said, I don’t think he has the movement or velocity to survive against major league hitters when he’s around the plate.
I’d like to have seen more evidence that Zumaya is ready beyond the ability to pitch on back to back days. I can do that but I can’t get anybody out.
Figaro should be called up should they need anyone else – due to his performance and great control.
Brooks Brown also looks interesting considering his ERA is the same as Zack Grienke’s. Albeit at AA, still an ERA of 0.00 after 7 2/3 and a WHIP(.70 vs .74) similar to Figaro isn’t bad.
Eddie Bonine may have just finished his cup of coffee… This organization has other arms it will want to see, other irons in the fire. Maybe he’ll earn another shot, but I won’t be surprised if he doesn’t. Thanks Eddie, and I wish you well.
Now, let’s hope Joel is blessed with good health for a while. He certainly deserves it..