2008 1st-round pick Brian Matusz made his Major League debut tonight for the Baltimore Orioles in Detroit.
Over 5 innings, Matusz allowed 6 hits, 1 er, 3 bb’s, with 5 k’s.
He gave way to Chris Ray in the 6th, and has been staked to a 7-1 lead, and should receive his first Major League win.
Matusz does not have an overpowering fast-ball, but his overall assortment of pitches can be dominating. He kept hitters off-balance, as he worked in and out, and up and down.
Seeing him being able to challenge hitters in hitter counts, with change-ups, and curves was very impressive.
He might wind-up being shut-down at the end of August, but it will now be a long-shot if he ever again sees the Minors.
In theory, if Matusz is shut-down before September, you could start him in AAA to start 2010, and still keep him down there long-enough to gain the additional year of service-time.
If the O’s were to decide on that path, it would be acceptable.
My guess is that does not happen though. The focus next year will be on winning games, and Brian Matusz is going to be their most polished pitcher. It will be extremely hard for them to send him back to Norfolk.
Tillman is a year younger than Matusz, and I think might have a bit more physical talent, but Matusz is just completely refined now.
If you have watched the last two-nights, you have to be extremely encouraged as an Oriole fan of the immediate, and long-term future of this franchise.
Owner
Chris Stoner founded Baltimore Sports and Life in 2009. He has appeared as a radio guest with 1090 WBAL, 105.7 The Fan, CBS 1300, Q1370, WOYK 1350, WKAV 1400, and WNST 1570. He has also been interviewed by The Baltimore Sun, Baltimore Business Journal, and PressBox (TV). As Owner, his responsibilities include serving as the Managing Editor, Publicist, & Sales Director.