MLB Managers Need to Grow a Pair

One thing that has always bothered me about baseball (and other sports too, for that matter) is the influence that the mighty dollar and the babying of pro players has on making strategic decisions. Too often, management is concerned with putting in the guy who they pay the most as opposed to the guy who’s better, or they make move specifically to avoid hurting somebody’s feelings.

For instance, Mets fans have been calling into WFAN this week asking their sports radio hosts whether or not they think Omir Santos will remain with the team after regular catcher Brian Schneider is activated from the DL. Apparently the fans and radio personalities alike have liked the way this kid has played, and would like to see him as a mainstay on the team. However, the hosts were quick to point out that it will likely not be the case because Schneider and backup catcher Ramon Castro get paid more and will likely share in a platoon in which Santos is the odd man out. So basically, it doesn’t matter whether or not Santos would actually play better or be a better fit for the Mets, he doesn’t get paid enough to play.

This is just a recent example, but it’s all too common, and it happens on each and every team. Most of the time situations like this arise in the bullpen. A team could have a struggling closer with an ERA over 7.00 and a three consecutive blown saves, but you can bet that he’ll be getting the call when the ninth inning arrives, unless he gets put on the DL or is in need of a day of rest. It doesn’t matter if the set-up guy has been lights out or has great career numbers against the opponent, the closer, who generally makes much more money, will be getting the call. And not only because he makes more money, but because the manager wouldn’t want to hurt his precious widdle feewings.

I understand that, in the latter situation, managers are often times looking to bring such a struggling closer out of a funk, and sometimes that is in fact the right move. But it’s time to stop worrying about bruising egos and the number on the paychecks – if your set-up guy has a hot hand and breezes through the 8th inning on 8 pitches, then just let the guy pick up the W and stop being so concerned about what everyone’s role is. Maybe that guy will end up showing that he’s the better pitcher, and maybe he becomes an even better closer than what you have. If the other guy wants his role back, he’ll have to work for it, and a little pressure might be good for him.

For once I’d like to see a manager stop babying the players and make decisions based on whether he thinks a certain move will win a game. So, MLB Managers, put the best team forward based on ability, and call the shots based on what will win you the game. Otherwise you’re just a loser.