OK- whats up with Pedro's era at 4.40?

[bjm97]

Maybe I haven't seen enough Sox games this season, but every time I see him pitch he is getting lit. A career 2.65 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and BAA at .208.. This season- 4.40, 1.27, and 258... He is giving up way to many long balls, and the Yanks and O's have a better offense (if it is possible in NY) this season but it seems there must be something else going on. What gives? Is there a hidden injury that Boston isn't talking about? I assumed in a contract year Pedro would be absolutely unhittable.

Anyone have any insight??

[brdmaverick]

well, there are a few things i have to say bout Pedro.....

1.) He isn't pitching as fast as he used to. He might reach 92-93 in a game, but that is on the high side.

2.) Many of his starts have been in real crappy weather conditions. As I said, and since his fastball isn't as fast, he has to rely more on his breaking balls now. The breaking ball is tough to throw in bad weather conditions.

3.) I hear he has adjusted his delivery. His adjusted delivery is taking less pressure off of his arm that has given him problems in recent years. With this being his contract year, Pedro might be willing to sacrifice his great ERA for health. He must figure he'll command more money with a 3.8 ERA than a 2.4 ERA and two DL stints.

just some thoughts (note: I have no idea what happened in that Angels massacre. There were perfect weather conditions there, and he still got lit up)