White Sox's bullpen walking tightrope with six rookie relievers
At some point, having six rookies in the bullpen will catch up with the White Sox. It didn't Wednesday in the 5-4 extra-inning win against the Texas Rangers.
The Sox used three of the rookie relievers in their latest win, with closer Addison Reed getting the win with an inning of work, thanks to a Kevin Youkilis' game-winning single. But the reason they now have six rookies in the bullpen is Jesse Crain officially went on the 15-day disabled list before the second game of the series against Texas.
In Crain's place came right-hander Deunte Heath, as all the talk about the Sox having one of the worst farm systems in the league seemed dumb. Besides six first-time relievers succeeding, they also have rookie starters Jose Quintana and Dylan Axelrod. Axelrod started off shaky against Texas, allowing three runs in the first, but then held it together to allow one more run in his 5 2/3 innings pitched.
But the hot topic was the fact that Crain was down and Matt Thornton was the only experienced reliever left in the bullpen. They might be pushing their luck for only so long.
"Once August comes around, you still have a whole month left," Crain said. "You're not used to playing that many games in the minor leagues. Being strong (is key), and mentally there is a huge adjustment."
Crain, who hasn't pitched since June 23 because of a posterior capsule strain in his right shoulder, went on the disabled list retroactive to June 24. The good news for Crain is there's no structural damage.
"No point in forcing myself through something that I don't know how it will turn out," Crain added. "I'd rather be ready for the last couple of months rather than push it."
The bigger question will be can all these rookies be ready for the stress of a pennant chase in case the Sox have no other options.
"A lot of guys can pitch, but the biggest thing is mental, especially being in the bullpen," Crain said.
