5th starter

[Blue56]

Could be wright (http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/atl/news/atl_news.jsp?ymd=20040212&content_id=636782&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp)

[Yellow Dog]

I heard Leo Mazzone talking about Wright yesterday on our local sports talk radio station. He said that he's really looked good and his mini camp. He had been throwing around the 93-94 range which is what he said he wanted. Where as he once threw 97, Leo said he'd rather him not overthrow, top out in the low 90s and locate his pitches.

He says it is yet to be determined if he will be given a chance to start. Alot of the decision will depend on whether or not the bullpen can spare him. If guys like Almanza, Alfonseca and Cunnane can step up and be effective in middle relief and set up roles, that would free Wright up to have at shot at being the 5th starter. He said he has no concern about Wright's surgically repaired shoulder holding up as a starter.

Leo also mentioned that he had been impressed with what he's seen of John Thomson. He thinks his strong second half last year was due to the fact he'd finally gotten over the "Coors Field Syndrome" which he believes affects pitchers even after they leave there for a period of time. He said he had good live stuff at the mini camp and he is very encouraged by what he's seen of him so far.

[jwrenn]

Woohoo! Get it together bullpen, cuz I'd like Wright to pitch!!!!

[Blue56]

honestly i don't really like Wright.....but you never know.

[Yellow Dog]

I was skeptical when they brought him over late last season and thought it was a move of desperation. But I was impressed with the way he pitched when he got here. I think he only had one bad outing. If can build on what he did last season he might turn out to be a good bargain.