Heretic;1754698 wrote:I can see what you're saying. I think that the rational for Cole is simple, though.
Cole typically (with a tiny couple exceptions during this year) has been good to great. You expect somewhere between 7IP, 1ER to 6IP, 3ER. Liriano has the same great potential, but is also likely for 4IP, 6ER sorts of performance. I think the mindset is that, regardless of how Arrieta is pitching, Cole is more likely to match zeros and at least keep the team with the Cubs.
Liriano has different stuff than Cole...stuff to offset Rizzo, Schwarber Couglin and Montero.....his change up is key and should give Bryant trouble.
Cole is a stud no doubt....I feel the Cubs being a great fastball hitting bunch will get him a few times.
It's ballsy. By the book you go Cole and if you go Cole and he loses no one questions. You go Liriano and he duds and you are a goat.
But I still like what Liriano brings in the home matchup vs the Cubs....at home I think the atmosphere will have Cole trying to over-throw, whereas Liriano's go to is to take something off.