Joba Chamberlain: To Bullpen Or Not To Bullpen?

BY DOUG RUSH For the last two years, we have heard the $64 million dollar question: Where does Joba Chamberlain belong in the Yankee pitching staff? This is his first season as a full-time starter. He has already made 16 starts and lets see where Joba is at: In 16 starts, 84.2 innings—which averages out to 5.2 innings per start, 74 strikeouts, 41 walks and has four wins. So with the major league season about half way through, Joba has only won 1-4 of his starts and he also hasn't given the Yankees any major length in his starts. Now, I know there are going to be those people who are going to read this and say Joba needs to stay in the rotation and be patient. Believe me, I have been patient...and up until now, I have been a Joba as a starter supporter. But, my patience is wearing thin. The Yankees are breathing down Boston's neck in the AL East race. We can easily win the division as we could win the Wild Card. If the playoffs were to start today, the Yankees are in, so right now, ... (link)