D-backs could consider altering starting rotation

SAN FRANCISCO -- On the heels of a disappointing beginning for their starting pitchers, the D-backs are pondering possible changes in their rotation.

In an effort to get Josh Collmenter stretched out, D-backs manager Kirk Gibson had him throw four innings in relief against the Giants on Wednesday night. That leaves Collmenter in position to start next week if needed.

"We've had discussions," Gibson said. "Obviously things have not been going as we planned. We're better than this and we can't keep going on in this fashion. Nothing is concrete at this time. We'll continue to talk about it. We'll get through this road trip and we'll probably talk about it on a daily basis. Obviously we want to try to make it better. We need to get more innings out of our starters, No. 1."

The two pitchers most in jeopardy of losing their spots are Randall Delgado and Trevor Cahill.

Delgado, who is set to start Thursday night against the Giants, allowed six runs over 4 2/3 innings in his lone start this year.

Cahill has made three starts, including one in Australia against the Dodgers, and has a 7.90 ERA.

Of even greater concern is the lack of innings Cahill has been able to pitch, as he has gone four, six and 3 2/3 in his starts. That puts a strain on the bullpen, and it is a situation the D-backs seem unlikely to tolerate much longer.

The D-backs have seen some positives in Cahill, making Delgado's start against the Giants on Thursday a crucial one for him.

"We see some things that he's improving in," Gibson said of Cahill. "The results are not one of them, but as of right now, we expect him to make his start."

The D-backs also have options in the Minor Leagues, with Bo Schultz, Archie Bradley and Mike Bolsinger among them, but Gibson seems to be leaning toward Collmenter at this point if a change is made.