Five days ago I stated I thought Bergesen needed to be removed from the rotation. Yesterday afternoon, I talked about wanting to see Hernandez get the opportunity to close during the remaining two months of the season.
So what happens last night? Of course, Bergesen goes 7 strong innings, allowing just 2 er on 5 hits, and 1 walk. Hernandez gets credited with a blown save, as he allowed a homer and 2 er in his inning of work.
I’m happy that Bergesen was able to flash his 2009 form, getting 12 grounders from the Royals lineup. The leash on Bergesen has to remain pretty short though. His start last night gives him the opportunity to make his next start. He has to back that up with another quality outing, and start stringing positive starts together. If he goes out to the mound 5 days from now and gets ripped, he again immediately becomes a candidate to be removed from the rotation.
As far as Hernandez goes, if you are going to be a Closer, you are going to have the opportunity to blow games. Every successful Closer states a necessity of the job is having a short memory, and being willing to take the ball the next night. I would love to see the O’s in position to win a close game today, and again hand the ball to Hernandez. Seeing how he responds mentally, is just as important as the talent that exists within his arm.
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.