The Fat Man

Four days after failing to retire a single batter and leaving the game suffering from back spasms, David Wells pitched seven shutout innings. Okay, it was only the Cincinnati Reds. But the start affirmed that Wells is reasonably healthy, and is capable of pitching well, especially when he’s got something to prove.

The win also brought the Chicago White Sox, who have won 14 of 17, to within 4 games of .500. They’re still in 3rd place, 11 games behind Minnesota and 10.5 games behind Cleveland for the Wild Card. But the bleeding has apparently stopped, and Wells’ performance may, paradoxically, keep him in Chicago.

Or it may just up the ante when the Red Sox or the Yankees or another contender comes calling. The price will be high—lately the Sox have been asking for three big-league-ready ballplayers. But so will the stakes. It’s tough to imagine George Steinbrenner sitting on his hands while the Red Sox trade for him.

Consider these stats:

• Wells is 16-8 lifetime against the Yankees.

• He was 2-0 with a 1.23 ERA against them last year.

• In his second game against them, on September 14, he pitched eight strong innings in a game the Blue Jays won in extra innings. The loss was the first one of a 3-15 skid which closed the regular season for the Yankees. Voodoo curse, anyone?

• Wells is 28-9 with a 3.27 ERA lifetime at Yankee Stadium.

If the Yanks don’t get him, and Wells helps somebody beat them, the blood of Brian Cashman will be shed. If the Yanks do get him, and they don’t win, the blood of Brian Cashman will be shed. Oh, to be young and working for the Boss…