Anyone who’s ever pitched, especially in relief, will tell you that the 9th inning is different. “The last 3 outs are the hardest to get” is said over and over again. It’s the pressure of knowing that if you blow it, especially on the road, the game is over and you lose. It’s a mentality that some guys have and thrive with and some don’t. Maybe Duran struggles outside of that situation because he doesn’t have that adrenaline going. And that’s not rocco’s fault, to be fair, but he needs to recognize the pattern that we all see.
It’s laughable to suggest that any pitcher can be a successful 9th inning guy. Look at Jax in particular. He’s had an outstanding season and you can make an argument that he’s overall the best reliever we have. But his numbers closing games are not good over the last two years. He’s had more blown saves than duran with far fewer chances. He even technically got one last night though it wasn’t his fault.
I just don’t understand why you would mess with guys who have shown they are better in certain situations. It’s like using a speedy running back on 3rd and short instead of your big bruiser. It’s overthinking a simple situation.