Is Kyle Lohse Toying With Our Emotions?

Cardinals fans are hoping that Kyle Lohse can return to his
 2008 form.  So far in spring training, Lohse is hinting that
 it could be possible. - Getty Images

Since Kyle Lohse signed a 4 year, $40 million contract with the St. Louis Cardinals, he has been insufferably bad. 

Part of it could be blamed on injuries.  Other parts could be blamed on Lohse's return to normalcy. 

But thus far during this year's spring training, Lohse looks the pitcher that went 15-6 with a 3.78 ERA in 2008.  The pitcher the Cardinals were expecting when they signed him to that huge contract. 

On Monday Lohse threw 6 solid and efficient innings against the Atlanta Braves, his second consecutive outstanding outing. 

Lohse threw just 61 pitches, allowing just one hit while striking out 4 while walking nobody as the Cardinals and Braves played to a 1-1 tie in 10 innings. 

Lohse knows that he was good on Monday and is speculating whether or not he can continue it all season.

"If I can do that for the whole year, that would be fine with me," Lohse said. "I didn't feel like I lost anything towards the end and that's what we're shooting for."

It would be fine with Cardinals fans too.

Sources:

• Lohse quote
• Box score
• Lohse career stats