Harden Update

[baseballboy]

07/03/03 from the Oakland Tribune:

General Manager Billy Beane said that top pitching prospect, Rich Harden, could join the A's rotation in the not-too-distant future. "To say his arrival is imminent is inaccurate," Beane said. "He's got to fit in somewhere, and Aaron (Harang) has pitched better his last couple starts. But we certainly wouldn't hesitate to use Richie if we needed him."

Impact: During Wednesday's A's' post-game show on KFRC AM 610 there was some discussion (fans and commentators, no A's management) of demoting Lilly and trying Harden out. Trouble is, Harden hasn't been all that dominant in AAA Sacramento. But it is plain to see that Lilly isn't getting the job done. Look for Halama to maybe get another shot or the A's to look elsewhere for help.
[/i]

[thehat]

Harden is not ready. The guy has immense potential, but right now he's going through AAA growing pains. I really don't see him figuring into things till next year, and think the A's are making a mistake if they force the issue too soon.

[DieHardCubbie]

I agree Harden is not ready. I think the A's would be better served to move Halama into the rotation and Lilly to the pen or to AAA. Harang has pitched better of late and should remain in the rotation.

I have Harden on my minor league roster and look for him to have a big year next year if the A's do the right thing this year. Bringing him up to early could crush his confidence and hurt him long term.