Quote:
Originally Posted by icehog3
Regardless of Leyland's managing, the team (pitchers and defense) gave up 15 runs, so I think there is plenty of blame to go around. Jackson, Avila, and others left their bats in the regular season, and the pitching didn't live up to the regular season either, with the exception of Fister. Don't make Leyland the scapegoat for a team failure.  |
It's Leyland's job to keep the game close with good management. Had he pulled Max early, the long relief could have started throwing with a LEAD instead of being behind and with the bases loaded. That's a HUGE difference, and is precisely what led to a 9 run 3rd inning.
Sure, not all the bats showed up (they still scored 5), but that's precisely why Leyland can't let the game get out of control.
Leyland blew it and in the process let a game that could have been close turn into a embarrassment.