The Victory Lap, Part Deux

TOM GLAVINE
Position: Pitcher
Bats: Left
Throws: Left
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 190 lbs.
2009 Age: 43

The Braves brass (and some Braves fans) got their man; Tom Glavine is going to get a second shot at a victory lap. Last year wasn't unprecedented for the 22-year veteran; his 2-4 record in 13 games was the same record he garnered in 9 games back in 1987, his rookie year.

The soft-tossing control artist suffered a torn flexor tendon in June. After trying to pitch in August, Tom had to shut it down. After surgery to repair that and clear some problems with his shoulder and impressing Bobby Cox in throwing drills (though that's not a particularly hard thing to do), the Braves chose to bring him back with a one-year deal.

BACK TO THE PAST: Not only is Glavine's 2-4 record from last year identical to his rookie season, but his ERA (5.54) is too.

IT TOOK A WHILE: It took Glavine seven starts before he won his first game. That is the longest such period out of any year in his career.

CAN YOU SPARE A RUN?: Including the start against Washington where he didn't record a single out, Glavine had eight starts where he allowed two runs or less. His record in those starts: 1-1.

My Outlook: Before last season, I was hoping that Glavine would be able to win 10 games and keep his ERA in the 4.00-4.50 range. Now, I'm hoping for one of two extremes:

• Glavine rediscovers some control and has a season that resembles his 2006 or 2007 campiagn.
• Glavine completely flames out and forces the Braves to do what they should have done in the first place: promote Tommy Hanson.

I don't want Glavine to fail, but at the same time, I want what I think is best for the organization. I do not believe Glavine is the best thing for the organization right now. I would like for him to produce like he is the best thing for the organization, though. If he doesn't, kick him to the curb as soon as possible.