Chase Utley vs. Joe D

[tdarko]

Joe DiMaggio had a 56 game hit streak in 41'
Chase Utley had a 35 game hit streak in 06'

I would never take away anything from Joe D., what he did is something that will never be done again...this is why I am as impressed with Chase Utley's streak compared to Joe's. Here are some reasons why:

-In today's game hitters are facing relief pitchers. Joe D was facing one pitcher for 4 and 5 at bats a game while Utley gets three cracks at a starter, then one shot at a specialist and then one chance at a closer, much much more difficult to face. The more times a pitcher gets through the lineup the more the advantage goes to the hitter.

-Left-Handed specialists. Joe D never had to face a pitcher that was put into the game just to get him out. Utley has had to face pitchers that are the best in the league at getting guys like him out, that are professionals at getting him out.

-Joe D never faced a sinker or splitter or much of the dominating stuff that pitchers have today.

-African-American and Latin players weren't around when Joe D played. May seem weird but this changes the game dramatically, Utley is facing the best pitchers from a larger pool whereas Joe D was facing the best pitchers amongst who they would let play.

-Media. The media coverd Joe D obviously and he was a melting pot for exposure with his charisma, off-the-field night life, dating life and the fact that he played for the greatest sports franchise in the history of ALL sports. Even with this said, it doesn't compare to what a hitter has to go through in today's media spotlight. The pressure is more intense.

There are probably more but this is all I can really think of right now. Just so you know I think Joe D's streak is the most impressive feat in all of baseball record. I also do not think it will ever be broken.

What are your thoughts when comparing the two streaks?