Gibson talks roster moves, Galarraga replacement
May 18, 2011, 10:11 PM | Updated: 11:21 pm
PHOENIX – The Arizona Diamondbacks are in need of a new fifth starter after designating Armando Galarraga for assignment.
“We’re thinking about some external and internal options. We’ve had a lot of discussion about that,” said Kirk Gibson on the Sports 620 KTAR’s Gambo and Ash show on Wednesday.
The D-backs manager was quick to shoot down the idea of moving Aaron Heilman to the rotation because he doesn’t want to upset the dynamics of the bullpen.
“He’s throwing the ball really good in the bullpen. Aaron is kind of settled into the seventh inning,” said Gibson.
One name Gibson didn’t dispel was Triple-A starter and former D-back Micah Owings.
“It’s a possibility. His name has been discussed. He’s a very competitive guy. Whatever the organization decides, I’ll respect that,” said Gibson.
No matter who becomes the team’s fifth starter, he will have to be better than what Galarraga produced on the field.
“He was not executing the way we wanted him to. He was leaving too many pitches over the middle of the plate and gave up a home run in virtually every start except one,” said Gibson.
“In the end, we were dissatisfied where we were headed in that direction. Just wasn’t what we were looking for being unable to execute a game plan.”
