Padres’ Minor League Roundup For August 19

May 2, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Andrew Cashner (34) throws during the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Andrew Cashner has been working through his second lengthy stint on the disabled list for right shoulder soreness. Cashner although lethal when on the mound and fully healthy, his health remains to be something he has struggled with this season. He throws some real heat and hits 100 mph on the radar gun with regularity. However, with his injury-riddled 2014 season, should he adjust his approach? Should he perhaps just throw in the low 90s to help protect his shoulder and elbow?

I am not entirely sure where I stand on this issue, because his high-velocity play a big part in the force he is on the mound. So I proposed that if he cannot be successful with a slower fastball, than the Padres should consider converting him back to the bullpen. That way he could throw as hard as he needed and not need to do it at 100 pitches per outing. He would be a force to reckon with and could join Aroldis Chapman as the hardest throwing closers in the game. While he may be opposed to this for two reasons: 1. His heart may be that he loves being a starting pitcher and 2. Starting pitchers make MUCH more money than relief pitchers do. But, I think for the longevity of his career, some adjustment need to be made. On that note, let’s take look down on the Friars’ Farm.