Billy Koch vs. Jason Isringhausen

[Shadowboxer]

I've seen some ppl mentioning Koch a better closer, even an upgrade from Isringhausen. How come? All Koch's got is a very hard but straight fastball that he can't throw for strike consistently and has a quick and excitable temper. I'm not sure how much stock I can put in this, but doesn't Koch always struggle against the Yanks?

Isringhausen, despite his infamous 9 blown saves in 2001, has better control, better ball movement and positive playoff experience. He'll be good for the Cards.

[jroll10]

Originally posted by Shadowboxer
I've seen some ppl mentioning Koch a better closer, even an upgrade from Isringhausen. How come? All Koch's got is a very hard but straight fastball that he can't throw for strike consistently and has a quick and excitable temper. I'm not sure how much stock I can put in this, but doesn't Koch always struggle against the Yanks?

Isringhausen, despite his infamous 9 blown saves in 2001, has better control, better ball movement and positive playoff experience. He'll be good for the Cards.

I don't see a big upgrade here, though because Koch has such good raw stuff, he probably has somewhat more upside.

[pacewon]

Originally posted by Shadowboxer
IAll Koch's got is a very hard but straight fastball that he can't throw for strike consistently and has a quick and excitable temper.

And the dumbest-looking beard of anyone in the majors.

[Sascha]

I also think the A's upgraded a bit with aquiring Koch as new closer, but I think with the Cardinals this year, Izzy will do (hope so ) mach better, especially w/ the help of Kline and Veres...

Go Cardinals !