Brian Smith had some updates on the set up of the rotation for 2013 (all links via Twitter):
*Bo Porter will determine SP1 towards the end of Spring Training (of course, either Harrell or Norris).
*One determination is Norris' strength at home vs. away.
Which is totally valid. On the road in 2012, Norris allowed an .889 OPS-against (.293/.379/.509), and just a .557 OPS-against at Minute Maid Park. Harrell had a much more manageable .713 road OPS-against in 2012, and a .663 home OPS-against. This is notable, as SP1 would get two home starts to start the season, and SP2 would get the first road game of the season at Seattle on April 8.
*Porter said that Humber is clearly working his way into the rotation, but...
*The 3-4-5 spots have yet to be determined.
*Porter has also talked to the pitching staff about "picking up the pace," thinking that it could be leading to poor fielding.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
