Although he got lit up by a class A team last night, right now the most important thing for RJ is that he pitches pain free, and by all reports, he did that. It will take time and innings before Randy starts dominating NL hitters again. Randy hasn't pitched since April. These rehab assignments are like spring training for him. As long as his knee holds up (I have my doubts) he will pitch effectively for this team again. I believe he should get another couple rehab starts before taking on the National League West. He will probably get lit up like Schill did when he first came back.
Randy is going to have to prove to himself that his knee is OK. Coming off major surgery for an athlete is more mental at this point than physical. I have to believe that there is still alot more 98 MPH fastballs and nasty shoetop sliders in that left arm of his. One thing is clear, if we have any hope of catching the Giants, we need Randy healthy, and pitching close to his level of the last 4 years.
Randy is going to have to prove to himself that his knee is OK. Coming off major surgery for an athlete is more mental at this point than physical. I have to believe that there is still alot more 98 MPH fastballs and nasty shoetop sliders in that left arm of his. One thing is clear, if we have any hope of catching the Giants, we need Randy healthy, and pitching close to his level of the last 4 years.
