Calling All Arms

(Balt. Sun)

Before we get into looking at the pitching situation, oh God I just threw-up in my mouth, there are a couple things I wanted to mention. First things first, Mac did a trial run last night of a live game blog that we will do every so often during this season. It's pretty simple, if you are watching the game, you can log on and we can all have a running dialogue here at "33rd & Eutaw." I'm sure it will get pretty colorful at times. Secondly, as we all know, tomorrow is the big day and I'll be in Baltimore posting pics from Pickle's during the pregame and from inside the 'Yard once the festivities start. I'll be at the games on Monday and Friday and Mac will be there Thursday, so we should have some good stuff to offer from the 'Yard's first week of activity in 2009. Check back with us throughout the day on Monday (and pray to the Baseball Gods for no rain!)

Now for the pitching. It is what it is and I'm not going to tell you anything that isn't clear to a regular observer. Guthrie is solid, however he is a #3 starter. Koji Uehara is a bit of a wildcard, however he throws strikes and should keep us in games. After that, well, shit. I look for this to be a revolving door throughout the season with Simon, Hendrickson, and Eaton getting first crack at it. It's funny because I am sitting at the computer alone, and I still got embarrassed typing those three names. There is help on the way as the farm is stacked with as much young pitching talent as any organization in baseball. The guys that should come at some point this year to help include Brad Bergeson, David Hernandez, and Troy Patton. These guys are solid prospects but Andy Macphail's whole rebuilding plan rests are the broad shoulders of three names: Chris Tillman, Jake Arrieta, and Brian Matusz. This trio is the best collection of elite pitching talent in the Minor Leagues. If they are as advertised, then we will have a chance real soon in the AL Beast. Look for Tillman to make his debut sometime in the second half of the season, while Arrieta (Boras client) and Matusz should make their Charm City debut in 2010.

The bullpen actually has a lot of quality arms that should play a pivotal role in any future success for the franchise. Chris Ray has elite stuff and will regain the role of closer sooner than later. Jim Johnson finally seems to have found his niche on the mound as an 8th inning set-up man. Sherrill and Walker are two savvy lefties who are possible trade-bait as well. Radhames Liz's transition to the bullpen is interesting as he has late-inning stuff if he can consistantly repeat his delivery. He'll try to work out the kinks in Norfolk. Albers is rock-solid. Of course, Danys Baezs is still here, making $6 million a year, and fucking my world up. He may be released before the end of the season.

Our Major League staff leaves plenty to be desired, however our pitching prospects are the envy of every farm director in baseball. Try to remember that we likely aren't going to be in the playoffs this year and a lot of these guys wont be around much longer. Instead, track the progress nightly in the Minors and allow yourself to get excited for the "Baby Birds" that will be migrating to the 'Yard in the near future. And remember, tomorrow is Opening Day, it's the best time of the year!