As many of you know by now, Joe Girardi confirmed on the YES Postgame that tonight was the first step in transitioning Joba Chamberlain to the starting rotation.
Girardi later added that this transition has been the plan for months and their recent stretch of terrible baseball had nothing to do with this decision.
Girardi also informed the media that the plan is to stretch Joba out at the major league level but did not confirm nor deny a minor league stint. He did not disclose when Joba would make his first start of the season, but hinted it would be at least a month away.
Personally, I'm a big fan of this move because of it's long term benefits. I've wanted Joba to be a starter since his debut last season because I believe starting pitching is still the most important element in a championship ball club.
The bullpen will certainly take a hit once the transition is complete, but it seems like the transition has also begun in the bullpen with the most recent promotions of Mark Melancon to Trenton and J.B. Cox to Scranton - both of whom are pitching lights out in the minors right now.
Your thoughts?