Williamson in = Linebrink out?

Which player would you rather have?

Pitcher A

46.2 IP, 35 H, 2.70 ERA

Pitcher B

28.1 IP, 27 H, 5.08 ERA

“A,” right? So would all the other GMs. A = Linebrink

Now, how about this:

Pitcher A

10.17 K/9, 2.00 K/BB, 2 HR, 1.54 GB/FB

Pitcher B

8.29 K/9, 3.31 K/BB, 8 HR, .89 GB/FB

This time A = Williamson. The Cubs play in a division full of band-boxes and Williamson has STILL only given up 2 HR. It’s likely that a change of environment (to a division full of pitchers’ parks) would help strengthen Williamson’s counting stats. His walk-rate is worrisome, but tolerable. I think he’ll be an asset for us.

Now let's go out and get a win tonight!