 While no single reason could be attributed to the disappointing finish, many writers highlighted inconsistent starting pitching and an injury to Neil Walker as the main reasons for the collapse.After a brilliant start to the first half of 2012, James McDonald struggled with his command, going 3-5 with an era of 7.08 in 12 second half starts.He was eventually moved to the bullpen and replaced in the rotation by prospects Jeff Locke and Kyle McPherson.