I've always been of the mindset that pitching rules baseball - this is a mindset not followed in PB ranks...

You cannot win in baseball without a solid pitching staff.

The BlueJays have a very potent offense this year, but no one would even come close to predicting a World Series or even playoff berth for them because of their pitching.

Meanwhile, the Red Sox, EVEN WITH THE LOSS OF NOMAR, are ontop of the AL East (or close to it).. why? Because of their pitching staff.

The Braves did all of their winning based on PITCHING. Remove any one of Glavine, Smoltz, or Maddux and the team does not do as well.

You want more proof?

Remove Ken Griffey Jr from Seattle. Does Seattle die? No, they thrive... why? Better pitching. Does Cincinatti immediately become better now with the awesome power and prowess of Griffey Jr on the team? No...

How about the Quarter Billion Dollar Man A-Rod? How did this incredible hitting superstar help Texas... well... lets look at the standings.. Hmmm... Texas is in last place in their division, is 12th out of the 14 team American League, and are an incredible 27th out of all 30 major league teams.

Boy... there was a great signing. Maybe if they had used that money to sign two great starters instead, Texas would be in the race instead of already thinking about the offseason. But I am sure that all the Texas fans love coming out to watch A-Rod play for their last place team.

Pitching is what makes this game, not hitting. A pitcher handles the ball more than any other player. Sure, a hot hitter can go 4 for 4 against an excellent starter - but a Randy Johnson will easily leave that hot hitter stranded on base.

Anyone who disagrees with me, answer these few questions:

1. Would you trade an ace starter like Johnson, or Martinez for a power hitter straight up?

2. What would make more of an impact on your favourite major league team :

• Signing Barry Bonds, or signing Randy Johnson


• Signing Ichiro Suzuki, or signing Pedro Martinez