WHY HUGHES TO ALDS A NO-GO

Look, Phil Hughes has had a tough year. We all know he can pitch, after all, he’s young and talented, but sometimes when your back’s against the wall, literally, and it’s the last week of September, you need to come to the realization it ain’t happening this year. Luckily for Phil, Girardi has an idea.

After the most recent setback with Phil's cranky back followed by the epidural shot, Joe suggested that maybe the best thing for the Yankees and Phil would be the bullpen for the ALDS.

Joe said: “I think you have to think about it. Just because he hasn’t thrown in a while.”

Now, I think that's interesting, although to tell you the truth, in the first round of the ALDS, I would suggest NOT bringing him. Phil hasn't contributed. He's not 100% and even tonight, he didn't impress me against the Rays.

Now yes, it's true, I wrote a piece awhile back called WHY THE PEN IS WHERE PHIL HUGHES BELONGS and at the time, I meant it. But Ladies and Gentlemen, this is September and it's way too late. I personally don't think Hughes can add anything to the first round of the postseason. If anything, let him work out some kinks now, have him throw bullpen sessions while the Yankees take care of business in the ALDS and if things look promising, Hughes is welcome to the ALCS. Otherwise, time to move on in 2011, see you in 2012. Sorry to sound harsh, but that's the reality in my opinion.

Phil Hughes is a talent but since that injury in Texas where he was pitching a no-hitter back in 2007, I feel like Phil's got a case of Nick Johnson-itis. Bad luck and injury is Phil Hughes right now. Can we straighten out the ship? Yes, but much like Eric Chavez, who’s incredible when he’s healthy, bad luck follows you everywhere.

So, what do you think? Should Hughes stay home in the ALDS or should he join the bullpen. Be sure to vote in our poll.

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