Kris Medlen proves an instant success for Atlanta Braves - MLB Update
What better can a club expect than having their reliever becoming a starter and turning out to be as successful as an ace of the teams?
The Atlanta Braves restricted Kris Medlen to the bullpen in the beginning but as an importance phase of the season initiated they brought him on rotation.
Although using Medlen as starter in the latter half of the season was a part of the plan, whether he will prove effective to such an extent was not known.
Medlen has been throwing quality innings for the team ever since he assumed the new role. He has earned wins both by throwing complete games and by finishing a reasonable number of innings scoreless.
His numbers at the moment are even better than those of recognised starters on rotation.
Earlier, when Medlen was asked about his new role, he was of the view that doing the starting job is easier than acting as a reliever. The starter can rest for a couple of games and even if he goes through a rough outing he does have the time to think of
ways to improve. Furthermore Medlen expressed his pleasure over not having to carry out work-outs every day now, something relievers are supposed to do.
Talking about the shut-down of Stephen Strasburg, Medlen said his expedition is starting whereas the former is about to sign off from the season despite the fact he also had Tommy John surgery.
Both the Washington Nationals and Braves faced similar dilemma with regard to these two pitchers before the start of the season. However, strategy followed by them toward their hurlers was different.
"I'm sure [Strasburg is] not fired up about pitching an entire season, and then when everything is on the line, it's 'Hey, you're not going to help us any more,'" Medlen said. "Being a competitor at this level, it's got to bother you. I'm just getting ready
for the later part of the season. I'm excited."
The Braves have a great combination developed now on rotation and this has a lot to do with the series of splendid performances that Medlen gave. How long Medlen can sustain his success will be interesting to observe.
Tags: