Mark

Redman

Redman threw two complete games last week. The Marlins may have issues looking for setup guys right now, but it’s uncanny the way they continue to push their starters. What is more unbelieveable is that the Tigers felt they couldn’t use Redman.

One of the pitchers who the Tigers received in return for Redman, Rob Henkel, will need surgery to repair a torn left labrum, and will likely miss the rest of the season. The other, Gary Knotts, is now the Tigers’ fifth starter.

Manager Jack McKeon would like to wait until Saturday to use Redman, but the pitcher says that’s ''just prolonging things.’' Redman has been throwing all-out recently (against doctor’s advice) and reports no discomfort. If Redman pitches Thursday, he’d face the Expos. On Saturday, the Reds. It’s probably best to see how he does before using him the following week.

Looks like McKeon won out over Redman, who wanted to come back on Thursday.

Redman is on the DL with a broken thumb. No word on whether his return will bring the Marlins to a five-man rotation, or whether they will stay with four starters (moving Dontrelle Willis back to the minors or Michael Tejera to the bullpen) until Josh Beckett returns.

Redman, acquired from the Marlins on Tuesday, could be non-tendered if he and the A’s can’t agree to terms.

Redman typically tops out at 90 mph, but his highest reading in his last start was 86 mph and he was typically in the low-80s. ''The strength is there, the endurance is there,’' pitching coach Brad Arnsberg said. ''He feels wonderful. It’s not physical. [But] he has been out there three times and he has not fared well three times. You can’t sit there and say we’re not concerned.’'

A start in Colorado probably wouldn’t do anything to increase Redman’s trade value, assuming that he will be eligible to be moved later this month. How Redman throws tomorrow could determine whether he’ll pitch. Ian Snell likely would replace him if he can’t go.

He’s now given up five runs in seven of his last nine starts. All of Redman’s recent problems make it possible that he will clear waivers, if he hasn’t already. He is a candidate to be traded, but until he has a positive start, it’s possible that no one will want him.

''It’s not like we’re in the pennant race,’' he said. ''If we were in the pennant race, then I’d definitely be out there. We’ll just have to see how I feel.’' We’re guessing he misses his next start.