Article: Starkey: Snell belongs with Pirates

A lot of people, key members of Pirates management included, likely would agree with what exiled pitcher Ian Snell told me Friday night in a phone conversation:

"I think the team is better off without me," Snell said.

I disagree.

I think Snell is just trying to play the martyr with that kind of statement.

If he still can pitch effectively -- and his performance at Triple-A Indianapolis indicates strongly that he can -- then the Pirates need him in their rotation. Immediately.

If not Snell, then Tom Gorzelanny would be the obvious choice for promotion, to replace current fifth starter Virgil Vasquez. Gorzelanny has not allowed more than an earned run in six starts since June 14.

Thing is, if ...

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