Joba Rules Don't Rule

We got a look at the new "Joba Rules" yesterday and I personally don't like them. Let me preface the following by saying I totally agree with protecting a guy's arm. There is solid evidence that a significant innings increase can cause damage to a young arm. On a side note, pitchers wouldn't have to be babied in the minors and majors if they weren't abused in little league, youth baseball, high school, and college.

That all being said, I do not like the current variation of the "Joba Rules". Joba left Sunday's victory over the White Sox after throwing just 3 innings and 35 pitches. It appears to be a true innings limit and not a pitch count. What is the point of having Joba start and throw 3 innings? Come October how do you expect him to make a playoff start and give you any length? As it stands now, Joba would likely only make one start in the ALCS and World Series, should the Yankees get there.

You might as well put Joba in the pen right now. Use him twice a week or once a week and let him throw in the pen in between. I say this, because it's a waste right now. You're in the middle of a pennant race, why burn your bullpen by automatically pulling your starter after 3 innings? (If he throws only 24 pitches, you're still going to pull him after 3 innings?) It doesn't matter if the rosters are expanded, you want guys you can trust to come into the game and not have to empty the bullpen if the starters have back to back bad outings.

Joba's appearances have been shaky enough and removing him after 3 mediocre innings is no way to boost his confidence or help the team.

And one more thing, Michael Kay mentioned on Sunday's broadcast that Joba must be relieved that the shackles will come off next season. Who says they will? If Joba throw 150 or 160 innings this season, who is to say he won't be limited to 170 or 180 next season. Then again the Yankees could change the rules again in September- that's how poorly they've handled Joba the last two seasons.