Keeping Kendrick

By Amy McGinnis

This weekend, the Phillies announced that they signed an extension with Kyle Kendrick,who had originally signed a one-year deal for $3.585 million in an effort to avoid arbitration.  The extended contract is set to pay Kendrick $7.5 million over two years, locking him up through the 2013 season.

I've heard different opinions about this move.  There are some fans who think that an emergency starter isn't worth that kind of money.  These are probably the same fans who like to criticize Kendrick and use him as a scapegoat when things aren't going well.  I've never really understood the disdain for Kyle.  He's not Roy Halladay.  He never will be.  Then again, no one ever will be.  Doc is a freak of nature.  That being said, Kendrick has served this team decently well as a starter and as a relief pitcher. 

Kendrick has a  fastball that sits around 90-93, and since he had been using it entirely too much, he has changed his repertoire somewhat over the past few years.  His changeup is average, and he knows enough to not really use his curveball.  Kyle replaced his slider with a cutter, which has been looking better and better.  Is Kendrick an ace? No.  Is he a solid #4 or #5? I think so. 

Something we need to remember is that KK is only 27 and has the potential for continued growth.  Don't look at his 8-6 record from 2011.  Look at his 3.22 ERA and 1.221 WHIP (both were his best since he has been with the Phils).  Aside from the numbers, Kendrick seems to do what is asked of him without complaining.  I'll take that attitude any day of the week.

It remains to be seen how the back end of the rotation will look once the season is underway.  One thing is for sure: I want to see Kyle give fellow RHP Vance Worley a run for his money.  Some healthy competition will only benefit the pitching staff, and Vance is entering his sophomore season with all eyes on him.  I really do like both pitchers, but I think Kendrick's experience might give him an edge.  At the end of the day, I want both of them to bring it. 

I don't mind debating the matter with other fans, but I have nothing to say to people whose only argument is "Kendrick sucks." Come up with something better than that and we'll talk.  Until then, I'm counting down til Phils-Yanks on March 3rd.