Why not stay with Sele, skipper?

OK, I’m not calling for (Seattle manager Mike) Hargrove’s head nor holding up a “Bring Back Melvin” sign, but Monday night’s loss to the New York Yankees requires just a bit of explanation, please. Why do managers jerk well-performing starting pitchers to – in Seattle’s case – get to a shaky pen whose verdict remains out to jury? Mike … it doesn’t take 20/20 to see that Aaron Sele was sharp through six innings, had a 2-1 lead and had just struck out the side. So Aaron’s potential win is rewarded with a hook in favor of Shiggy, who loads ‘em for Sherrill, who gets Martinez to hit into what should’ve been an inning-ending double play before Sexson mishandles Olivo’s throw. Bernie’s eyes then radiate when Putz is called in and he immediately cranks out J.J.’s first serving. No need for seconds here.

One pitch and the Mariners are toast again. So Mike … pretty please again explain why a well-performing starting pitcher is removed to eventually get to a shaky reliever who just two days earlier served up a first-class “here you go, pal” pitch to Boston’s Trot Nixon to lose that game, and now is in to face one of baseball’s best grand slam hitters with no room at the inn?

Jeff Clausen

Spokane