Chris

Michalak

Michalak is bringing his pickoff move back to Toronto, where he went 6-7 with a 4.62 ERA in 2001. He’ll pitch for Triple-A Syracuse.

Michalak, who made 18 starts for the Blue Jays in 2001, just doesn’t have much else to go along with one of the game’s best pickoff moves. He’ll have a difficult time winning a spot in Milwaukee’s bullpen.

The Reds are still listing Elizardo Ramirez as tonight’s starter, but Michalak will be available to go a few innings if necessary. The 35-year-old with the outstanding pickoff move is back in the majors for the first time since 2002.

Michalak allowed just one run in 6 2/3 innings on Saturday after relieving Elizardo Ramirez in the second inning. His last major league start was with the Blue Jays on July 15, 2001. He’s not recommended in NL-only leagues.

Michalak is starting Wednesday against the Pirates.

Michalak will be a good litmus test for just how weak the National League is right now. There’s a reason the 35-year-old Terry Mulholland clone went four years between appearances in the majors. It’s unlikely that he’ll have any fantasy value.

It actually could have been worse, as just one of the three runners Michalak left on base after departing scored. The left-hander pitched well against the Phillies last time out, but this start is much more indicative of his true talent level. He’s not a fantasy option.

Another starting pitcher to the bereavement list when there’s no chance of him actually missing a turn. It’s too bad Michalak’s 102-year-old grandmother passed away last night, but we don’t see why the Reds should benefit from it. Michalak remains scheduled to start Wednesday.

This doesn’t necessarily mean anything. With Sarasota’s season ending, the Reds can bring Michalak right back to the majors when they need a fifth starter. It’s possible that they’ll go to Homer Bailey instead, but this doesn’t make that any more or less likely.