One of the Orioles most intriguing prospects over the past several-seasons has been Brandon Erbe. Drafted out of McDonough School in Owings Mills, Erbe started his Oriole/Professional career with Bluefield in 2005.
As he has been a recognized name for 5 years now, there is a tendency among Oriole fans to think he is older than he is. The reality is the young right-hander will turn just 22 on Christmas Day.
The current on-field realty for Erbe is that he is having a very tough-time at AAA Norfolk. He has made 9 starts, and only been effective twice. For the year he is 0-8, with a 6.80 era. In 45 innings of work, Erbe has allowed 57 hits, 7 homers, 17 bb’s, with 31 k’s.
There have been many people, myself included, that have always believed Erbe’s path to the Majors was through the bullpen. The two adjectives you have heard the most to describe Erbe are ‘Electric’ and ‘Frail’. Meaning a plus arm, and a weak body. At 6’4, 190 lbs I’m not sure Erbe is weak, but I have agreed with those that do not believe his future is in a Major League rotation.
The O’s might believe that as well, and have wanted him to start to build up his innings and gain additional experience. I understand that, but I think that should end. Besides getting beat-up on the field, you have to imagine his confidence is taking a beating as well. Make him the AAA Closer, and see if you can start to take advantage of that electric arm.
Baseball America ranked Erbe as the 78th best overall prospect in 2007.
In 2010, BA ranked Erbe as the O’s 10th best overall prospect.
2008 Frederick: 10-12, 4.30 era, 150.2 innings, 120 hits, 50 walks, 151 k’s
2009 Bowie: 5-3, 2.34 era, 73 innings, 44 hits, 35 walks, 62 k’s
While Erbe had some success at Bowie last-year, one could argue that he had no business being promoted to Norfolk allowing 4.3 walks per 9 innings at the AA level.
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.