David Huff Earns Spot in Rotation With Great Performance in Minnesota

David Huff was in Cleveland during the past two seasons, but until yesterday, he had spent all of 2011 in Columbus. While there, he had a record of 8-3 with a 3.86 ERA.

Both Jeanmar Gomez and Zach McAllister were given chances before Huff, but neither did well in their outing. Yesterday was Huff’s turn, and he proved that he earned the call-up.

In 7 innings of work, Huff allowed 0 runs and recorded 5 strikeouts. He looked great and drew comparisons to Cliff Lee. These comparisons deal with how Huff pitched, and also his current situation. He was sent to the minors after struggling in the majors, and pitched well upon his return. In 2007 Cliff Lee was sent to the minors and came back in 2008 to win the Cy Young.

The Indians went on to win the game 5-2, with Vinnie Pestano getting the save. Due to his great performance, David Huff was rewarded by being given a spot in the rotation. With Talbot still injured, the Indians need a pitcher to fill the void. Jeanmar Gomez was thought to be this pitcher, but after a poor performance in Baltimore in which he gave up 5 runs, he was sent back down to Columbus.

With all of the questions surrounding Talbot, it is possible that Huff will permanently take over his spot in the rotation. Talbot is currently on the DL, and might be sent to the bullpen when he returns. However, with the bullpen being so dominant this season, he would have to pitch well in order to earn a spot. If he is indeed sent to the ‘pen, Frank Hermann might be the one who is sent to Columbus.

During the second game of yesterday’s doubleheader, Fausto Carmona also pitched a great game. He had to pitch well, just as Huff had to, in order to prove that he belongs in the rotation.

Carmona went 6 innings and only allowed 2 runs. Performances like these are needed by him to cement his spot in the rotation. If he comes out and struggles in his next outing, Alex White is always an option to replace Carmona.