Rotoworld -- Homer Bailey as a "potentially very useful weapon down the stretch"

[Henry Clay]

There have been a number of promote Homer/protect Homer debates on Redszone, but Rotoworld suggests this afternoon that the team's likely decision to shut down Bailey, while potentially a good thing long-term for Bailey, could deprive the team of a "potentially very useful weapon down the stretch." Any thoughts on the impact a Bailey September call up would have on the team vs. Bailey's long-term health? I can see the argument that he has pitched more innings than ever before, but his experience to this point in AA also counters the argument that he hasn't had enough time to develop in the minors. With a dearth of power in the Reds' bullpen and rotation, Bailey could provide a decent lift, assuming his arm is solid and his short outing Friday wasn't health-related. Here's the full Rotoworld report:

Homer Bailey allowed two runs in 4 2/3 innings Friday for Double-A Chattanooga.

Bailey struck out six, but this still qualifies as one of his weakest starts since his promotion in June. The Reds are threatening to shut down Bailey next month rather than call him up. It might the best thing for him long-term, but the club would be depriving itself of a potentially very useful weapon down the stretch.

[mth123]

Shut him down!!! See ya in 2007 Homer.

[Candy Cummings]

I agree. Let's not repeat the mistakes of the past.