The Bullpen

Mike Pullett was a 22 year old rookie in 1977. He led the team with 12 saves in 39 appearances. He started five games and pitched in 70 games. He injured himself late in the season and began '78 on the disabled list. Pullett's ceiling was unlimited early in his career. He threw hard and changed speeds well. But, he was prone to injury and Bob Maxwell doubted that Pullett would ever pull his own weight.

"Mikey pitches nice, but he throws violently. He doesn't allow adequate time to recover. He could start, but might not have the stamina. He could relieve, but he might not recover from day to day," Maxwell said early in '78.

Maxwell liked the idea of Pullett on the team because he was a hard–throwing lefty.

"The kid can throw hard. I enjoy knowing he's down there. I hope he's down there. He'll be back in a month," he added.

Rich Grey is a 10–year veteran in the bullpen. Maxwell planned to rely on him to get outs. He throws hard and gets key strike outs. Another factor in Grey's repertoire is that he doesn't walk a lot of batters.

Ron Harrelson, a 19–year old, expected to contribute as both a starter and reliever depending on the team's need. Maxwell said his upside was too good to keep him in the minors.

"No way the kid should be in the minor leagues. He throws nice. Real nice. He might strike out a batter or two an inning. He's damn good," suggested Maxwell.

Bill Slerpie, 40 years old, would be the closer in '78. He'd never regularly closed but he would be a valuable asset, according the the manager.