In Praise of the Joba Rules

I usually don't say too much kind about the Yankees, but they certainly cannot be faulted for their handling of vaunted young pitcher Joba Chamberlain. Sure, the " Joba Rules" sound funny at first, but it was a smart way to protect a young pitcher from overuse. Plus, now that he is stretched out, he is ready to pitch as needed in the playoffs, as any other pitcher would. And remember, he did start the season playing in the Florida State League.

Additionally, the Yankees use of Joba has been completely old school. Starting pitchers back in the day routinely were called up and used as relievers in the bigs before being moved into the rotation. Chamberlain will have no trouble making the transition next year into a big league starter. Added points for having the experience of pitching in New York, in meaningful games, in the late innings, in September.

So, the Yankees get credit for their handling of Chamberlain. Now, let's hope they get swept right out of the playoffs....