Benitez

One of the really frustrating things about Armando Benitez’ early struggles is that the Mets would be in first place now (in spite of all their other problems) if he’d converted those 4 save chances he’s blown. What’s harder to tell is what’s really wrong, and whether it’s more than just a bad run for a good pitcher. The main problems — control trouble, lack of durability beyond 1 inning, lack of movement on his fastball, the fact that he only has two pitches and he’s afraid to throw one (the splitter) on a 3-ball count, poor temperment — are things that have been true for years. The only suggestion I’ve heard that’s new is that he isn’t throwing inside enough.