Bob Melvin

[KingLouieLouie]

It just can't be overlooked what a "breath of fresh air" Melvin has been so far as the Dbacks manager..... It's just refreshing the confidence and "Chutzpah" he exhibited when he allowed Vasquez to face Saenz and eventually end the Dodgers 8th inning outing and also how manages to keep Cintron in the line-up on a regular basis while he's probably been the most consistant hitter as of late....

Of course...the what is refreshing is how he keeps a set regular line-up based accordingly to each hitter's strengths/attributes (definitely in contrast to Brenly and Pedrique).....

I must admit that I had preferred Backman (prior to all the off-field incidents that he was involved in was reported) because I thought that the Dbacks needed a "fiery" manager who approaches the game with "iron fists" opposed to what I thought Melvin demonstrated with "kid gloves", but Melvin's managing style is ideal since the Dbacks have such a veteran oriented team..

The only question I guess Ive had a Melvin is his insistence of constantly using Bruney (not only because of his struggles, but for over-extending him), but then I must factor in that he doesn't "run-out" all the relievers as constantly as his predecessors had (Brenly would even remove a starter in spite if he was still in "top form" for no apparent reason, just like it was for the sake to punish/deplete the relieving core)......

I know we're only 20 games into the season, but I just figured I would praise Melvin now..especially when credit is due.....

 

[BC867]

Good post, KLL.

I had high hopes for Bob Brenly when he was named Manager because of his background.

A former National Leaguer, with some American League experience.

A former Catcher -- managed pitching staffs, but a position player. And one who had to work hard to stay in the Major Leagues.

And now we have those qualities again, just as in recent World Champion managers -- Joe Torre, Mike Scoscia.

And a guy who communicates well with his players. One who, it turns out, was the one who communicated with Brenly's players.

And one who isn't afraid to filter in a hot player -- Cintron -- while keeping Kata and Terrero as true subs. And effectively using Tony Clark (platoon 1B), top pinch hitter.

The foundation is there for the D'backs to get better and better. His biggest challenge is going to be his middle inning bullpen. I'm betting he'll work it out.

 

[devilalum]

What's amazing to me is that wherever he puts Cintron turns into a no-ball zone.

 

[FORKTUNG]

Ask me about Melvin come August and I'll have a better answer, heh

I do think the current 3rd base coach is the best they've had in years after suffering thru Butterfield etc.