EL DUQUE’S LEG LIFT KICKS THE BUCKET (RR)

Orlando Hernandez has used his signature high leg kick to deceive hitters and bring a unique flair to his delivery.

Now, though, “El Duque” admits he either has to alter the knee-to-chin portion of his windup or eliminate it completely if he wants to continue to pitch in the major leagues.

Hernandez has multiple problems with his right foot, notably a bunion issue that causes significant pain on his instep near his big toe. When he brings his right knee toward his face in his standard delivery, Hernandez is forced to take his heel off the ground, which places greater strain on the instep and toe areas. So Hernandez needs to modify his delivery to allow him to keep his heel flat as a way to alleviate pain.

Can El Duque be effective at this point of his career without a leg kick? Is Kyle Lohse an option?