Chad Billingsley

Is there a more tough luck pitcher since the All Star break than Chad Billingsley? Billingsley dominated the Diamondbacks on Sunday as he had 13 strikeouts and he gave up just one run. However, he still took a no-decision after the Dodgers’ bullpen blew a 4-1 lead by allowing four runs in the eighth inning. George Sherrill and Jonathan Broxton each gave up two-run homers in the eighth. Billingsley was dominant in the outing while allowing just four hits and walking one. The right-hander now has an impressive 3.04 ERA in 14 starts since the All-Star break. Of course there have been days where he has not had the command which has led him to rougher outings, but to see the Dodgers offense continue to struggle and provide Billingsley with any support is disappointing and he deserves a better fate.

Before Sunday, Billingsley had a 3.20 earned-run average and had held hitters to a .228 batting average since the All-Star break. The overall numbers for 2010 don’t just off the page at fantasy owners, but the great ending to the season is certainly meaningful because that is the stuff that 2011 sleepers are made of.

In other news from Sunday…..

• Shutdown Alert: Jaime Garcia’s shutdown is official – it was a good year. Justin Morneau (concussion) is also out for the year in all likelihood says his manager. Ryan Zimmerman (strained intercostal muscle) missed his fourth straight start Sunday and is a strong risk to be shut down for the season. Michael Bourn won’t hit this week, even if he pinch runs. The knee feels a little better, but Jair Jurrjens still doesn’t look like he’ll pitch much this week. Scott Olsen (shoulder) is officially done for the year. Gavin Floyd has been shut down for the season
• Chris Young hit his 27th home run, which makes his .260 average tolerable, but remember the downside with him next year, too.
• Billy Butler reached base five times Sunday, but predictably, the three hits were all singles. His power numbers really need to come around in 2o11.
• Ryan Braun hit two home runs Sunday and has been his usual self this second half.
• Evan Longoria (quad) is still missing time, but he wants to be back by mid-week.
• Jonathan Papelbon blew a rare decent start by Daisuke Matsuzaka and hasn’t been elite this year.