PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Is Wandy's rotation spot at risk?

Pittsburgh Pirates

When the season began, Edinson Vólquez (RHP, PIT) looked to be the starter most likely to lose his rotation spot, but he has gotten off to a strong start. In his first 21 innings of work, he allowed just four earned runs, and perhaps more importantly, just four walks. It remains to be seen if he can maintain the Ctl gains, but as long as he keeps pitching well, he'll remain in the rotation.

Instead, Wandy Rodriguez (LHP, PIT) has struggled out of the gate, and his manager is concerned about his velocity being down. His average fastball velocity hasn't topped 90 mph since 2009, but it's down a bit more than usual early on this year. He's allowed six home runs in 16 innings, thanks in part to a 29% hr/f. 

Rodriguez is...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

With the return of Jake Burger and Evan Carter soon, the Rangers have a major platoon situation brewing.
Aug 12 2025 3:08am
Graham Pauley and the plucky Marlins try to keep riding the wave in Miami. Plus: Cacalli in WAS; Profar in ATL; Walker in PHI; SPs at NYM; more.
Aug 11 2025 3:08am
The best team in baseball is adding another arm with closing experience.
Aug 9 2025 3:07am
Bernabel should see regular playing time in COL; Thomas contributing in ARI; LA 2B update; rotation updates in SD; and a potential opportunity for Encarnación in SF
Aug 7 2025 3:10am
After the Red Sox did not acquire a first baseman at the trade deadline, could Kristian Campbell get another shot in the majors? Plus, two top prospects on the verge of promotions in Baltimore.
Aug 6 2025 3:05am

Tools