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Scouting Report

1999 Season
For the second straight year, Rick Croushore didn't capitalize on an opportunity to be the Cardinals' closer. He suffered seven defeats and blew seven of his 10 save opportunities, and ended up doing most of his work in middle relief and mopup situations. He was terrific in those roles before wearing down in the second half.


Pitching, Defense & Hitting
Croushore can blow away hitters with his heavy sinker and mid-90s four-seam fastball. However, he always has had trouble maintaining a consistent release point. When he can't, his pitches flatten out and he gets hit hard. He has yet to develop a useable offspeed pitch. With his slow delivery home, Croushore is an easy target for basestealers, who are 18-for-22 against him in the last two years.


2000 Outlook
Croushore gets a fresh start in Colorado after being sent to the Rockies in the Darryl Kile deal during the offseason. He has failed to take advantage of an open closer's job the past two years, so his role is uncertain entering spring training. Still, Croushore's hard sinker will come in handy in the thin air of Coors Field. He very well may end up finishing games for Colorado.


Scouting Report Source: STATS, Inc. Copyright 2000 STATS, Inc.
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