Down on the Farm: Drew Smyly Shut Down

Early today, Mark Anderson–TigsTown.com Managing Editor —reported that last seasons second round draft pick Drew Smyly has been shut down. As of right now there is no news exactly why he has been shelved. However, it is worth noting that Smyly does have a history of elbow problems in his career.

In 17 2/3 innings with the Flying Tigers Smyly posted a 4.08 ERA and a 1.42 WHIP. In the starts that I observed this season Smyly cruised through the first few innings. However, as he approached the middle innings he began to labor a bit and struggled with command and control. The results didn’t yield walks (just 3 this season) but Smyly had a tendency to hang breaking balls and struggle locating his pitches. This seemed odd to me because Smyly had been described as nothing but consistent by scouts.

Jay Voss has been announced to get the ball this evening in Smyly’s place. Voss as you might recall is the reliever that Detroit received when they traded Nate Robertson to the Marlins last season.

With Smyly hitting the DL it’s only a matter of time before moves are made. Perhaps Jeff Ferrell who has a 3.71 ERA for the Low A West Michigan Whitecaps gets the promotion. Josue Carreno could also be an option to promote if they wish to be aggressive. To be honest though, your guess is as good as mine.

I think I can speak for all of us here at MotorCityBengals.com when I say get better Drew.

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