Edwin Jackson is the definition of a journeyman. In his 11 major league seasons, he has been on 8 different teams. The last, the Cubs, signed him to a four year, $52 million contract. It was quite odd reaction when the Cubs failed to sign free agent Anibal Sanchez, who signed with the Tigers for $80 million.
Going into yesterday's start, Jackson has compiled a record of 78-86, 4.44 ERA, 1.436 WHIP, and 12.1 career WAR. Those numbers are just barely above Triple AAA replacement level.
Jackson (8-16) lasted only four innings for the Cubs last night, giving up two
runs on only two hits and three walks. Jackson has the most losses of
any pitcher in the NL.
When Jackson was pulled from the game for a pinch hitter in the
fifth inning, television cameras showed Jackson and Cubs manager Dale Sveum
having words as Jackson headed to the clubhouse.
Several Cubs players and coaches moved toward the two as Jackson continued walking down the tunnel. The impression was that it could have been a volatile situation.
"He wasn't real happy being taken out of the game," Sveum said. "You
respect that when players want to stay in the game, but I made that
decision."
The Cubs were only down 2-0 against Brewers' Wily Peralta, who came into the game with a record of 7-15. The Cubs eventually lost the contest 6-1.
The game had no significance in the standings or the wild card chase. Both the Cubs and Brewers are sloshing around last place.
The Brewers used the game to get rookies some experience and evaluation time. Outfielder Caleb Gindl made the most of his opportunity when the Brewers' rookie outfielder got three
hits, including a two-run home run off reliever Zac Rosscup, to lead the Brewers to victory.
The Cubs were using the game as extended spring training as well. Sveum used a bullpen of Cabrera, Raley, Lim, Rosscup and Rondon after Jackson.
Jackson's anger in being pulled in the 5th may be more frustration. He is being paid to be a top of the line starter, but his record indicates otherwise. He may be frustrated that he landed on a team that was not rebuilding but tearing down its major league roster. He may be frustrated that based upon his performance and remaining contract terms, he is stuck with the Cubs for three more long seasons.
