Joba Chamberlain tightens grip on rotation spot

Not that his job was in jeopardy, but Joba Chamberlain has been simply dominant since the All-Star break, and last night might have been his best performance of his career. He pitched eight shutout innings, struck out five and allowed three hits and two walks.

He has won each of his last three decisions — right after the B-jobbers started acting up — and has allowed just two runs over 21-2/3 innings.

I was starting to worry a little bit about his career as a starter after his three prior starts, which were quite poor. Now, I have no doubts of his potential as a starter, and I think he will continue to excel in the second half.