By Todd Wills
ESPNDallas.com
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ARLINGTON, Texas -- Yu Darvish threw 130 pitches in his last start and suddenly everyone on talk radio and social media became an expert on pitch counts.

But I've been able to talk to enough coaches and players this week to draw my own conclusion: For a pitcher like Darvish, pitch counts are overrated. And I'll go with those who have played the game.

Rangers manager Ron Washington defended his decision to put Darvish back in the game in the eighth inning last Thursday against Detroit, with his ace already having thrown 115 pitches and the Rangers leading 10-4. Washington cited a bullpen that had been taxed the previous days in Oakland, and the fact that the Tigers have one of the best lineups in baseball.

If this had been the Houston Astros, Darvish would not have pitched the eighth inning. Against one of the best lineups in baseball, however, Washington chose to go with his best pitcher. Watching Miguel Cabrera pound three home runs this past Sunday, it's easier to understand Washington's thinking.

Rangers CEO Nolan Ryan said the weather conditions were perfect to bring Darvish back for the eighth. Ryan said if it was during the heat of August, then maybe you'd err on the side of caution.

Darvish is a feel pitcher and can handle the workload, Ryan said.

Ryan should know. He went over 130 pitches 26 times alone as a Ranger. They didn't keep track of pitch counts before 1988, when they started being tracked in the minor leagues. Surely Ryan was around the century mark for 130-pitch games for his career.

I understand why those in the front office worry about pitch counts and their pitchers' health. It's GM Jon Daniels' job to look at the big picture. Darvish is a prized asset for the Rangers. Protecting him makes complete sense.

On the other side, Washington and his coaching staff are paid to win now. And the Rangers found out last season what one game in the standings can mean. One more victory in 2012 and the Rangers would have been division champs again.

Given a chance to nail down one game, Washington and pitching coach Mike Maddux decided to let Darvish throw one more inning and -- hitting 96 mph on the radar gun -- Darvish retired Cabrera, Prince Fielder and Victor Martinez in order to effectively end the game.

Darvish said he feels fine and has no fatigue from the 130 pitches. It's doubtful he'll come close to that count in his next outing.

But if he does, I'd say let him go.