Now that manager Kevin Cash and the Tampa Bay Rays have proven that using a relief pitcher (the opener) in the first inning before bringing in the "starter" is a viable strategy as evidenced by their 90 wins in 2018, more teams are expected to follow suit this coming season.
Is this the beginning of the end for the quality start stat as we know it? Will the quality start have to be redefined as any 6 innings (not just the first 6) or more with 3 er or less thrown by a pitcher during a game?
Will there be less of a need for sixth and seventh inning relievers now?
Will we now see an increase in 15 and 20 game winners since the "starters" will usually be pitching one inning further into the game and have more chances to earn a decision?
Is this the beginning of the end for the quality start stat as we know it? Will the quality start have to be redefined as any 6 innings (not just the first 6) or more with 3 er or less thrown by a pitcher during a game?
Will there be less of a need for sixth and seventh inning relievers now?
Will we now see an increase in 15 and 20 game winners since the "starters" will usually be pitching one inning further into the game and have more chances to earn a decision?
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