Thin Ice For Brandon McCarthy?

Is Brandon McCarthy’s spot in the rotation in jeopardy? Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

As we all know, the Arizona Diamondbacks signed Bronson Arroyo last week in a move that I absolutely love. I’m sending a virtual high five to KT on that one. As my colleague Joseph Jacquez points out, the acquisition of Arroyo may cause some rotation issues.

Yes, there will be rotation concerns. Here’s why. We have seen Brandon McCarthy be inconsistent on the mound all too often. As far as I’m concerned, Brandon is likely on the outside looking in at the rest of the starters. If McCarthy does make the rotation to start the year, you’ve got to think he will be on thin ice immediately, right? Whether I speak for other Diamondbacks fans or just myself right now, I have felt a loss of trust and confidence in McCarthy over the last year. The rotation has been inconsistent and Arizona fans are getting fed up. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: ever since Brandon McCarthy took that line drive off the head, he hasn’t been the same pitcher. While it’s understandable that there is some fear, the other frustrated part of me is saying to get over it.

So, what happens to the rotation? Honestly, I’d like to see Randall Delgado in the rotation. And no, I don’t think that’s crazy. Delgado has shown a lot of promise and Arizona needs a young pitcher to really establish himself in the rotation. Patrick Corbin can’t do all the work, believe it or not. Corbin, Wade Miley and Arroyo are locks for the rotation. While I’m still not sold on Trevor Cahill, he will be in the rotation. That leaves one spot–hopefully for Randall Delgado. I understand McCarthy will likely start the season in the rotation, unless his spring training goes horribly. That said, I see Brandon having a short leash right from day one with this team.

Am I crazy, or does Randall Delgado (or somebody else) have a shot to swoop into the rotation? Let’s hear it.

Just some thoughts as we enter spring training (man, that felt really good to say).

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