Oakland Athletics: Four Key Relievers Who Should Return In 2016

Aug 29, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Drew Pomeranz (13) throws during the ninth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The Former Starter: Drew Pomeranz

Pomeranz might not look like an impressive reliever on paper, given his 3.68 ERA, but his numbers are largely affected by his time as a starter at the beginning of the season. Luckily, the Athletics’ gave up on that idea quickly. In his last 30 games, he has a 2.90 ERA, three saves and 39 strikeouts.

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But even those numbers even include a short spot-start appearance. His statistics as a reliever are much more impressive: 36 innings over 38 games, with a 2.50 ERA and 41 strikeouts. Hitters are batting just .189 against him when he appears out of the bullpen, which is certainly a big difference from his starts.

Pomeranz has been one of the few bright spots for the A’s in a season of bullpen mishaps. While he’s had the occasional rough game of his own, Pomeranz has managed to be fairly reliable. His history as a starter gives the Oakland Athletics some options. They can use him in a set-up role, pitching in the eighth inning before Doolittle comes in to handle the ninth. They can also stretch him out and have him play more of a long-man role if needed, although that would really be a waste of his talent.

Last season, Pomeranz logged 10 games in relief, with a 1.62 ERA compared to his still-very-good 2.58 ERA as a starter. When he can pitch for one inning as opposed to worrying about going six-plus innings, Pomeranz is instantly more effective. He can throw his fastball harder, gain a few ticks in velocity, and not have to worry about what his pitch count might be. His performance in 2015 has certainly earned him a spot in next year’s bullpen, but perhaps with the upgraded title of “setup man”.

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