[Phhhl]

Everyone thought Justin Upton broke out last year, but he is scuffling so far this year too. Joey Votto isn't raking like the entire planet predicted either, by the way. It is extremely early to give up on a player with Drew's explosive skill set, not to mention one whose success is so important to the success of this team this year. It is painfully obvious that he has a tough time with anything crooked, so I agree that it is perfectly reasonable to drop him lower in the order at least until he puts it together, where he might see more fastballs. But, I am pretty happy with what Dusty has done on this last road trip by shaking up the lineup. Not only does putting Phillips in the 2 hole in front of a guy who either steals second or doesn't get on base at all neutralize Brandon's propensity to hit into double plays, it provides a power threat at the top of the order to try and force pitchers to give Stubbs more fastballs. Although I would like to see Stubbs dropped in the order and take some of the pressure off his shoulders until he proves himself, at least it shows that Dusty is thinking about how lineup construction may be effecting production. THAT is major progress for those of you in the cf hits first "dude", shortstop hits second camp.

Drew Stubbs is critical to the success of this team. He provides exceptional defense for a team that is starving for it, and speed and power. Aside from Votto and Bruce, he is clearly the most important position player on this team. Dusty needs to do whatever it takes to leverage Drew Stubbs to succeed, and be as patient as it takes to get that done. We need to be smart in how he is treated. Otherwise, the good pitching we are bound to get as the season progresses will be wasted.

Some flexibility is fine, but giving up on Drew Stubbs now would be in direct alignment with giving up on the season.