Joe Nathan
Not everyone deserves a second chance. Just look at Brad Childress. He has been a crucial element in the perpetual choking of the Vikings, and most fans would like to see him replaced as soon as possible.
In other cases, such as Michael Vick’s, a chance at redemption is due him. He has served the time, and will be a football player once again.
There is a third scenario, however, that I wonder how we got in to. After reading a few omments from the Strib, I have been led to believe that some people don’t trust Joe Nathan.
What has he done to earn a spot in your doghouse?
Joe Nathan is an elite closer in the league. He isn’t recognized for his true value outside of (and sometimes, it seems inside) the Land ‘O Lakes area. Nathan could be argued as the best closer in the game, and he is certainly on the same level as Francisco Rodriguez and Jonathan Papelbon.
I wouldn’t substitute Nathan for anyone.
Historically speaking, Nathan has been one of the most reliable and consistent closers in history. Last year, with the exception of five games in late August and early September, that held true.
During that “poor” stretch of six days Nathan blew two saves, and lost two games. Certainly not what Nathan usually does, but he bounced back accordingly.
To say that you don’t trust Nathan, after one stretch where he pitched like like a mere mortal, is ridiculous.
If you think that Gardy will limit Nathan’s ninth inning appearances because of a lack of trust, you are dead wrong. If you think that Nathan should be limited, you are dead wrong.
Nathan deserves as much trust and respect as he received for the majority of last year. He is one of the most accomplished closers in baseball, and he should be treated as such.
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