Storyline: The Baltimore Orioles are in the thick of the playoff race. But to maintain the pace, the O’s need to add a solid starter. Winning the AL East and securing a playoff spot hangs in the balance.
The Baltimore Orioles have had a solid season. Manny Machado, Mark Trumbo, Chris Tillman and others have proved themselves. But as I watch the Orioles play there’s one thing that needs to improve–effectiveness of the starting pitchers.
Courtesy: zimbio.com
Chris Tillman looks like the only starter who is consistent and can go deep into games. Kevin Gausman has pitched well as of late, but he struggled early in the season. Ubaldo Jimenez has not lived up to the big contract he signed a few years ago. He has been very inconsistent, unable to adjust to hitters. And his mechanics have been up and down, something that has plagued him throughout his career.
The Orioles need to make a move! There are plenty of solid options out in the market, too. They could go after a guy like James Shields, who has struggled in San Diego, but has pitched very well in Tampa Bay. Shields knows how to pitch in the AL East. There’s also lefty Dallas Keuchel, who has struggled in Houston, but who pitched very well last year—almost winning the Cy Young Award.
Courtesy: esparanzadigital.com
But the option I like the best is this: the Orioles should work out a deal with the Braves to acquire Julio Teheran. Teheran has pitched very well, but the Braves are in rebuilding mode and I think they would be willing to trade just about anyone on their roster.
Bottom line: The Orioles are in the thick of a playoff race and need to bolster their pitching staff. Winning the AL East and securing a playoff spot hangs in the balance.
I agree, we need better starting pitching.