LH and RH specialists

Using the option to turn a relief pitcher into a lh or rh specialist with a quick hook doesnt seem to have the same effect that is has in the 20xx sets. I have had my lh specialist come in to face four and five rh hitters in a row with other bullpen options available and looking at his l/r splits he is better against lefties.

Anyone else find that the specialist settings arent effective in the 2000's game?

bad stamina + stupid HAL bullpen decisions +unavailable pitchers = specialists only one left.