Giants to hire Peterson to help Zito?

The Giants need to do whatever they can to bring in Peterson to help Zito, even if it means hiring Chuck Woolery to make the second time around happen. Photo: Newscom

The San Jose Mercury News is reporting that a high-ranking San Francisco Giants official is interested in bringing in recently fired New York Mets pitching coach Rick Peterson for one reason; to work with Barry Zito. It’s no secret that Zito lost his “mojo” when he signed with the Giants. However, can Peterson really help Zito?

There is a link between Zito and Peterson – both worked together with the Oakland Athletics. Remember when Zito was dominating and had that nasty hook? Yeah, Peterson was his pitching coach.

It’s not a done deal and it could just be a rumor – especially since Peterson was just let go recently by the Mets. However, it is something the Giants really should consider. Take these stats into account: Zito was 47-17 with Peterson as his pitching coach. Since then, Zito is 64-69 and on his way to a 17 loss season this year (2-10 already).

Maybe there is no reason to think this over. The Giants have $126 million invested in Zito. I’m sure Zito would gladly give some of that back so the Giants could hire Peterson, even if the only job he has is to coach Zito.