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Last year around this time, I wrote an article where I pointed out that the records of rookies in postseasons over the 20-some years was worth considering for the Cardinals, Athletics, and White Sox as they went into their stretch drives last season. I argued that past rookie performances for World Series winners like the Fernandomania Dodgers of '81 or the '83 Orioles with Mike Boddicker were worthwhile historical precedents for today's teams. Why trade for a veteran down the stretch if your talented rookie starter has been part of the reason why you're in first place?

This question remains relevant this year. Look around at the National League contenders. The Astros are leaning heavily on Roy Oswalt and may need Carlos Hernandez as well. Bud Smith and Luke Prokopec are probably their team's third starters. The Phillies are starting three rookies in David Coggin, Brandon Duckworth and Nelson Figueroa. The Cubs might have to count on Juan Cruz down the stretch. Over in the American League, C.C. Sabathia's performance will be critical to the Indians' chances, and who knows what Lou Piniella might do with Joel Pineiro. If the White Sox come on strong, two of last year's rookies, Mark Buehrle and Jon Garland, might be the only non-rookie starters that manager Jerry Manuel calls on.

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