Morning Coffee with Mark Whelan: What happens to Hahn and Despaigne when Cashner Returns?

Jul 9, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; San Diego Padres pitcher Eric Stults (53) delivers a pitch during the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Eric Stults – OK, I know this is the first guy you thought of when I asked “who comes out of the rotation?” Stults has certainly had more bad starts than anyone else in the rotation, but he’s allowed a total of only seven runs over his last four starts, for an ERA of 2.59, and he threw a 7-inning, four hit gem against the Giants on the Fourth of July. Stults is experienced enough to not let bad starts stick with him. He goes about his business, works as hard as he can, and has the maturity to bounce back from misfortune. And, as will become more relevant in the next slide, he’ll be able to pitch every fifth day for the Padres for the rest of year, if he stays in the rotation.