Send Izzy to the Minors? Something Has To Be Done

Throughout his career, Jason Isringhausen has been a phenomenal closer.

Since his days as a rookie with the New York Mets, Izzy has been one of the best relievers in the game.

The day that Izzy came to St. Louis, it was a blessing. The Cardinals finally had a good closer that could get them through the ninth inning with a win and a save in their pockets.

Izzy has had a mediocre season at best this year, with only 11 saves in 18 opportunities. With a 5.97 ERA and a 1-5 record, things have been a little shaky for the closer that came into the season on top of his game.

Up to this year, Izzy has been a reliable righty to call upon in the ninth.

What in his game has slipped? Most people would agree that Izzy has lost the command of his strikeout pitch, the cut fastball.

Izzy has been given golden opportunities this year, even after Tony La Russa pulled him from the closer role. Izzy hasn't pitched many ninth innings since being pulled from the closer role, but on Saturday night versus the Pirates, Izzy was given the ball in the ninth with a four-run lead.

Izzy eventually gave up the lead and the game was sent into extras, leading to the eventual Cardinal loss.

I say that the Cardinals need to send Izzy down to AAA Memphis, so that he can recollect his game and get his command back. Izzy has been a dominating force in the past, and I think that he still has some good quality years left as a closer.

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