Ron Washington, a man of many talents, has decided to temporarily hand the reins over to fire-baller, Neftali Feliz.
Francisco started out 2009 slow and is repeating the routine in 2010.
Frank didn’t start out slow on the scoresheet though, he didn’t allow a run until May 31st. Rather, his velocity wasn’t up to par for the first few games of the 2009 season. Francisco started out 2009 throwing 93mph and maxing out around 95mph. He eventually kicked it into gear and started regularly hitting 95mph. Francisco’s breaking stuff isn’t terrific, outside of the change of velocity, so it’s important for him to beat you with the fastball.
In 2010 though, Francisco is lacking velocity across the board. His fastball has yet to top 94mph and is averaging a paltry 92-93mph, almost 2 full miles per hour slower than his peak in 2009. His change-up has declined as well, which makes me question Frankie’s health.
Francisco’s going to get some time to rest up as he relinquishes his 9th inning duties, but if he doesn’t start hitting — nay, exceeding — 95mph very soon, he’ll have a hard time regaining the closers gig.
I still think Texas would prefer Neftali Feliz in high-leverage situations, rather than *just* a closer. Feliz has the ability to throw for multiple innings and it seems premature to pigeonhole Feliz as a closer. Feliz did pitch 77 innings in AAA last year, acting primarily as a starting pitcher before moving to the pen about a month before being called up.
If Frank Francisco gets dropped in your league, I’d say he’s a definite add while you monitor his velocity. Texas has yet to sell me on Neftali Feliz, the closer, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Francisco gets at least a couple shots to regain his role if he first regains his velocity.
