Note: Niese’s Rookie Debut was Rough
Jon Niese was roughed up in his major-league debut last night, letting up five runs and seven hits through four innings.
From the first pitch he threw, Niese appeared to be aiming the ball, while ‘telegraphing his pitches,’ as Keith Hernandez likes to say. That said, when at it’s best, his curve ball is seemingly devastating, as it is not all that much slower than his fastball. He clearly has a ton of talent, but for whatever reason he was a total mess last night – and I am not at all concerned about it.
Niese, on Niese, speaking to reporters after the game:
“I’m excited that the team won…This is every kid’s dream, to play in the big leagues. I’m just thankful to have the opportunity to play, and to get the first one out of the way.”
Jerry Manuel, regarding Niese, talking to reporters, said:
“Well, you know, I think that you almost have to throw that one out for him and kind of give him the benefit of the doubt. I think it was obviously a tremendous experience for him. I think th effect that we end up winning the game, which is the most important thing, is a good thing. I think if it went the other way, and having had the lead that we had, I think it would have had an adverse effect. But, I think winning the game, and with the way everybody feels, I think it lifts his spirits when he probably knows that was not his best…I can see the potential in the young man. I think he has tremendous potential, upside. Again, I think we really benefited as an organization with this experience and not losing in the midst of a pennant race.”
For more on Niese, check out John Harper in the Daily News, who writes, “Niese showed plenty of guts and a world of potential. He just didn’t show that he’s quite ready to pitch in the big leagues, particularly in a September pennant race.”
