Reading Between The Lines: Jose Veras

The Italicized text below is taken from a blog post by Marlins beat writer Joe Frisaro. This is in no way an insult to him, we love him here at the Diehards, even though he's an Alabama Crimson Tide fan. But my thoughts are in response:

Joe Veras, who was designated for assignment on April 14, cleared waivers and he was outrighted to Triple-A New Orleans on Friday. The move means the veteran right-hander remains in the organization.

That means he sucks. No team wanted to pick him up. Even the Houston Astros who are 1-9 and the Pittsburgh Pirates, who have an MLB-worst 7.46 ERA said, "Thanks, but we'll pass."

"We'll see him some time again this year," manager Fredi Gonzalez said.

Hopefully he's playing for the Mets.

But he struggled throwing strikes, and after four appearances, his ERA was 15.43, although he had a win. Veras allowed eight runs in 4 2/3 innings, and he struck out five while walking four.

"Sometimes it is just about getting people out," Gonzalez said.

Sometimes, Fredi? How about all the time? I can't think of many instances where an opposing player comes to bat and the best strategy involves not trying to retire him.

In Spring Training, Veras was throwing hard, showing a 96 mph fastball.

96mph is nice. It is especially nice if it moves or is placed in the strike zone but while being difficult to hit.

How are we shopping for these relievers anyway?



Oh.

h/t mattyports