If you check the archives, it is well documented that I am pretty large advocate of Chris Tillman and his future in the O’s rotation.

So for me, it is pretty disappointing seeing Tillman struggle through a start for the 3rd consecutive time.

After his masterful game in Texas, where Tillman held the Rangers scoreless over 7.1 innings of work; Tillman has had a rough go of it.

The Texas start was July 10th. Due to the All-Star game, and his place in the O’s rotation his next start was the 19th.

19th MLB – 2.2 innings, 7 hits, 8 er, 4 walks, 2 k’s
24th AAA – 3.2 innings, 8 hits, 5 er, 2 homers, 3 walks, 2 k’s
29th AAA – 4.1 innings, 7 hits, 4 er, 2 walks, 3 k’s

You do not expect any player to be perfect. You certainly do not expect the 22 year-old to be consistently on. What you do want to see is that when a guy struggles, how he handles that adversity and what adjustments are made the next time out.

In 2009, Tillman pitched a total of 161.2 innings. The rule of thumb is that pitchers should not pitch more than 30 innings more than they pitched in cumulative the previous season. This means Tillman should be able to pitch roughly 190 innings in 2010.

When Tillman nexts take the mound, it will be important for him to do something positive. After tonight, Tillman has now pitched about 112 innings for the season between AAA and the Bigs. Lets say that Tillman gives Norfolk 7-8 good innings on August 4th. If he was then promoted back to Baltimore for a start August 9th, you would figure Tillman would have about 70 innings left in his arm for the year.

He needs to earn his way back to Baltimore, and gain some further Major League experience prior to the end of this season.

Chris Stoner
Chris Stoner

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.

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