As far as skipping one of the lesser pitchers in the rotation to keep Francis on a steady "4 days rest" schedule:
If they do that, Francis gets 6 more starts this season.
If they don't? If they stick with a "5-man rotation" throughout the rest of the season despite the fact that there's already been one "off" day (today) and three more off days in September?
Then Francis gets 5 more starts.
Maybe I'm stupid, but I don't think it exhibits "panic" to make sure that your best pitcher gets an extra start and your worst pitcher gets one fewer start ... that is, if you really think you're trying to win something, it would be irrational to do anything but what I've suggested.
Which brings me to my point: Rockies management (primarily Hurdle) aren't acting like they think they are real competitors.
So why should the fans think they are?
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