Don Mattingly shows faith in Coach Rick Honeycutt’s abilities – MLB News
Los Angeles Dodgers’ newly acquired manager Don Mattingly will put the same amount of pressure on pitching Coach Rick Honeycutt as did by the former manager Joe Torre, who acquired retirement of his 29 year managing career.
Mattingly was talking to reporters on Monday and said, "Joe may pull the trigger differently, but as far as what Honeycutt does, he'll be doing the same thing he did before. He gives you what he thinks in a given situation. I may have a different feel for
a certain match up, and then it becomes my call."
Don has little experience in pitching department and therefore needs help from Rick. Mattingly is aware of his weaknesses as pitching coach and acknowledged his need of Honeycutt. Mattingly express confidence in Rick’s ability to handle the pitchers, as
he knows the improvements in the Dodgers squad after his appointment as pitching coach six years ago. The teams 3.90 ERA is the best among all teams in MLB.
Rick has experience of providing the most efficient information to managers. He said he would do the same giving as much information as possible.
The 56-year-old Honeycutt has been with the organisation for many years, joined as Minor League coordinator in 2002 and helped young players familiar with game. Before coming into business of Coaching, Honeycutt served Dodgers for 21 years as pitcher and
earned the ERA champion popularity. In coaching, he mixed with all pitchers removing the allegation from coaches of sticking to some.
Mattingly communicated his expectations from Rick and praised his personality while talking with reporters on Monday night.
"He's doing his thing like he did a year ago, and he's good at what he does. He doesn't get as much attention as some big-name guys -- but he's excellent at breaking down a hitter, and knowing how a pitcher should get that hitter out."
Dodgers have some veteran pitchers including Jon Garland and Matt Guerrier in their line-up. Honeycutt believed that it should be easy for Mattingly to decide the roster as some players like Clayton Kershaw and Chad Billingley have qualities required at
MLB level.
Last year was not impressive for the Dodgers when they earned the eighth position in the League with a 4.01 ERA.
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