Arizona Diamondbacks: What could have been for Kris Medlen

Oft injured pitcher Kris Medlen has decided to retire, leaving us to wonder what could have been if he stayed healthy.

When he was healthy, Kris Medlen had the potential to be one of the better pitchers in the game. Signed by the Arizona Diamondbacks this offseason, Medlen had a two year run of success with the Atlanta Braves where he was virtually untouchable. Between 2012 and 2013, he posted a 25-13 record, along with a 2.47 ERA and a 1.096 WHiP, striking out 277 batters with only 70 walks in 335 innings. It seemed that he was on his way to becoming a star for the Braves.

Instead, injuries plagued Medlen. He had two Tommy John surgeries, dealt with issues with his rotator cuff, and battled other assorted ailments. Nonetheless, Medlen valiantly continued to return, and even made an appearance with the Diamondbacks. However, he was shelled in that outing, and when sent back to AAA, continued to be battered. This time, there was no coming back, as Medlen has announced his retirement.

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Medlen’s last major league appearance was certainly not what he would have hoped for. He lasted just four innings, allowing seven runs on nine hits and four walks, striking out four. His time in Reno was not much better, as he was 0-5 in his seven starts, posting a 5.03 ERA and a 1.588 WHiP in his 34 innings. Even though he struck out 29 batters, his excellent control was not there, as he issued 15 walks.

Even though he leaves the game on a negative note, Medlen was a solid pitcher when he was able to take the mound. Overall, he posted a 41-26 record, with a 3.33 ERA and a 1.216 WHiP, striking out 496 batters in his 599.1 innings, issuing only 163 walks. Medlen performed well regardless of the role, as he started 76 of his 174 career appearances.

In a way, Medlen may have appeared just a bit too early. With his command and overall ability, he could have functioned well in the new multi-inning reliever role. Using Medlen the way that pitchers like Andrew Miller, Josh  Hader, and Chris Devenski have been utilized. Medlen could have been quite the dominant pitcher, and enjoyed a more sustained run of health.

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After one disastrous outing for the Arizona Diamondbacks, and a difficult time in AAA, Kris Medlen has called it a career. If he stayed healthy, Medlen could have been special.