So, About Byrd's Trade Value…

"It just didn't happen for us," [Indians pitcher Paul] Byrd said. Us, Paul? Not to point fingers, but Byrd has now given up 10 earned runs over the past two outings - totalling seven innings pitched. On a team that has been plagued by a lack of offense and the occasional bullpen meltdown, you simply cannot afford your starting pitcher to allow five earned runs in four innings pitched. Byrd allowed two more home runs last night, taking his total to 19 - the most in the American League. Given that the game was in Colorado, I'm wondering if there was any thought given to possibly skipping his spot in the rotation. Yes, it wouldn't be a vote of confidence in Byrd, but it would give us a better shot at keeping the opponents batting average to a minimum while keeping his trade value up - something that needs to be done if the team turns to sell. Byrd's comments are not exactly sitting well with me. "Honestly, I thought I threw the ball ...