by jdh » Wed Jul 30, 2003 6:40 pm
Even if the Red Sox don't get a starter, I still highly doubt Kim moves to the rotation, at least this season, and Epstein has said the chance of that happening is remote at best. They have already had him change roles from starting to closing once this year, and it probably would be too much to ask him to make another reversal, especially because he'd have to build up his stamina all over again in the middle of a pennant race. Moving guys back and forth between the bullpen and rotation also often causes injuries, so there is no way he gets asked to start again this year. They'll probably give him a shot at winning a starting job in spring training next season.
Even if the Sox don't get a starter they do have other options if Mendoza keeps struggling in the 5th starter role. They can call Fossum back up to start again, and they also have Person rehabbing and working up his arm strength to possibly become a starter, so either of those guys are more likely. I think the only possible way Williamson closes this year is if Kim starts really struggling and blowing alot of saves. Then they might put Williamson in the closer's role, and Kim in situational relief to straighten him out. But right now, it's about 90% certain that Williamson will not close again this year.