Free agent pitcher Manny Parra optimistic despite the recent setback – MLB News
Milwaukee Brewers’ decision on Friday, November 30, to keep Manny Parra non-tendered may have taken a lot of fans by surprise. However, paradoxically, much as it had elements of surprise in it, there were already some indications that the Brewers were finally cutting ties.
Parra was part of the Brewers for over a decade; serving in both rotation and the bullpen. That which did not come as the pitcher’s forte – though, was consistency. While he has a strong arm, with variation to offer, consistency was conspicuously lacking.
General manager Doug Melvin alluded to this aspect when he was asked about the Brewers' decision. Melvin, from what could be made out of his statement, was looking for consistency. The bullpen, after all, had not performed well this past season, finishing last and having 29 blown saves – which was a record in itself.
"That's just my personal opinion," Melvin said. "He was just inconsistent, and sometimes, in the bullpen, Manny tries to do too much. He has two or three pitches, and sometimes coming out of the bullpen, you have to try to simplify things. He has the repertoire of pitches that, if he throws strikes, he may be better to be a starter."
In a year wherein he appeared in 62 games, pitching 58.2 innings, Parra had 5.06 ERA with 3 losses. Surrendering 39 runs, he could not offer what the Brewers needed in the season. In short, the Brewers left a lot to desire when it came to their bullpen performance.
The 30-year old pitcher, nonetheless, is a fighter. Showing optimism and hopefulness for the future, he thinks he can put things on track.
"I just keep telling myself I'm a late bloomer," Parra said. "I always have been in my life. I'm 30 years old now, but I'm just going to remain positive and believe that I'm going to keep getting better. What else can you do?"
That does not seem impossible. With the experience that he has had both in the rotation and bullpen, he stands a chance to be offered a good contract by some team in the next week’s Winter Meetings.
Tags: