The Baltimore Orioles moved to 4-0 under new Manager Buck Showalter last night. While the team does appear to be playing better fundamental baseball under Showalter, the real reason for the modest win streak is simply improved starting pitching.
8/3 Guthrie: 7 innings, 5 hits, 3 er, 0 walks, 2 k’s
8/4 Matusz: 6 innings, 7 hits, 1 er, 0 walks, 3 k’s
8/5 Arrieta: 7.2 innings, 4 hits, 2 er, 2 walks, 4 k’s
8/6 Bergesen: 7 innings, 5 hits, 1 er, 1 walk, 5 k’s
The O’s players have stated publicly they are playing smarter under Showalter, and maybe they are. I just think a nice run of starting pitching keeps everyone involved, and gives you a chance to win on a daily basis.
There has been a lot of talk about the O’s being ions away from being able to improve significantly, and I just disagree with the premise. The O’s will significantly improve when the rotation provides consistent positive outings. With the names above (and with Tillman and Britton in-addition) the talent exists for this to become the new regularity.
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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.