There’s one thing I hate more than admitting I’m wrong, and that’s not admitting I’m wrong when I know damn well that I’m wrong. I really don’t want the reason for why I thought Kuroda would suck in the AL East to be because of how he looks. Not the whole Asian thing; I’m far from racist, and I respect those from the East. But seriously, look at that face. Tell me the starter at your county golf course hasn’t thrown a hundred Hiroki Kurodas into your threesome. They’re so mediocre too- guaranteed 94 on the scorecard every time that in no way justifies the 4 hours spent each day at the range with that swing track machine and a trainer named Guy. But I really feel like one of Brad Pitt’s archaic scouts in Moneyball. Bad face- can’t pitch. Ugly girlfriend- no confidence. 10-8 with a 3.24 ERA and a shutout against one of baseball’s most potent lineups later, however, and here I am swallowing my pride with a strep throat level of struggle. Hiroki Kuroda is a good pitcher, Goddammit, and I’m officially on his side (I’m sure he’s relieved to hear this). I didn’t think his stuff would translate across leagues, but he’s transitioned quite nicely. At this point, he is the most consistent starter on the team.

You have to assume CC and Pettitte are 1 and 2 for the playoffs, but Kuroda has locked up a top 3 spot. This hypothetical rotation is contingent upon several factors, such as the health of the two lefties and whether or not Joe would want to double up on southpaws, but the bottom line is this: Hiroki Kuroda has been solid for most of the year, and I was absolutely, 150% wrong in my early-season assessment. If you can’t accept me swallowing my pride, then swallow my dick.

P.S.- As it pertains to yesterday’s debate on whether or not you buy into Nick Swisher’s shtick, I don’t give a fuck if the guy is bullshitting his way through life like American Psycho. He could kill a hooker a night and flex-fuck in front of 10,000 mirrors for all I care. As long as he keeps swinging a hot bat, let him come to the field and fake smile for the cameras all he wants. This could be his year to finally do something in the playoffs.