When this season opened, Barry Zito was the Giants' fifth starter.
Barry Zito’s Out Of Rotation ... But What’s Next?
And why not? His ridiculous contract aside, Zito had been (roughly) a National League-average starter in his four seasons with the Giants, durable if not particularly effective. Also, they didn't have anybody else. But then Zito got hurt and Ryan Vogelsong took his spot and Vogelsong miraculously became one of the league's best pitchers.
When Jonathan Sanchez got hurt in late June, Zito stepped into his slot. He pitched well, his first three times out. But in his last three starts, Zito’s given up six home runs and 19 runs in 15-2/3 innings. Oh, and Sanchez is coming off the DL. So it’s either a six-man rotation or Zito loses his slot. And the former seems unlikely, so ...
Bochy says Sanchez will go into rotation. Doesn't say yet where Zito will go. #sfgiantsless than a minute ago via Twittelator 
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Jeff Fletcher
JeffFletcher1
Where could Zito go? He could go to the bullpen, but seems miscast there. He could go on the Disabled List, assuming someone’s able to discover some injury. Or he could hit the waiver wire.
My money's on the DL, because Zito, for all his faults, is insurance -- incredibly high-priced insurance, granted -- in the event that one of the Giants' top five starters get hurt. But Bruce Bochy will reportedly address Zito's status after Monday night's game against the Diamondbacks.
My money’s on the DL, if only so Zito’s still hanging around in the event that one of the Giants’ top five starters gets hurt.
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