6.00

That’s a WHIP, not an ERA. The ERA that goes with it is 32.40.

That’s Jose Valverde in the last 7 days.

Back in March before the BABI-NL auction, there was an interesting trade in which the Bums sent Chad Tracy (5-06) and Wily Mo Pena (1-06) to the Pounders for Jose Valverde (4-07). Three days later Pena was traded to the AL, which made deal Tracy for an incredibly cheap closer.

Kevin, how do you feel about that deal now? Maybe not so bad.

Arizona is very much in this divisional race, in fact, they’re in first place at 29-21 with the third best record in the NL. Valverde has blown his last two save opportunities, which is fine when you’re 16-34, but not when you’re in first. His season ERA is now at 5.85, his WHIP 1.65 and his batting average against is .272. He has a firmer grip on the closer role than Chris Reitsma, but not by much. With Brandon Medders’ season ERA down to 2.50, and his May ERA at 0.71, the clock is ticking loudly on Jose.

He does look scary out there, though.