The Birds of Baltimore opened up Grapefruit League Season by losing a laugher to the New York Mets down in Fort Lauderdale, 9-3.
Oriole pitching had some bright spots, while some guys struggled on their first day on the mound.
Brad Hennessey — who started the game — took the loss, as he only lasted 1 1/3 innings before leaving because of a sore elbow. Let’s hope it’s not serious; however, he was shaky as he allowed two runs. Afterwards, Chris Waters got 1 2/3 innings of work and gave up a run on three hits. David Pauley — who pitched in the fourth inning — downright awful as he allowed four runs on five hits in only 1/3 of an inning worked.
After Pauley was yanked, Ross Wolf, threw 1 2/3 scoreless innings and saved the fourth inning from getting any worse; thereafter, Brian Bass came and gave up a runs in the sixth and seventh inning. Ryan Keefer and Jim Miller finished up the game by throwing a scoreless inning each.
New York’s Ryan Church drove in three runs, and Ramon Castillo drove in four to hurt Baltimore.
New acquisition Ryan Freel impressed as he went 2-for-3 with a double, stolen base and crossed the plate once. Ty Wigginton, Oscar Salazar and Robby Hammock plated in a run.
- I’ll be looking forward to Thursday’s game as Danys Baez starts for Baltimore. I have no idea what to expect; however, I hope his problems that he had 2007 are a thing of the past. I’m thinking that he will find himself in the bullpen all is said done when Opening Day comes around.
- MLB Network will feature the Baltimore Orioles on Saturday, February 28 at 8pm on the show “30 Clubs in 30 Days”. According to the website, “each show will feature an in-depth look at the 2009 teams featuring player, coach and GM interviews; expert analysis on personnel and other decisions for the upcoming regular season.
- Finally, the Maryland Terrapins are playing the Duke Blue Devils tonight in College Park, Md. Well, I hope my beloved Turtles win and find themselves magically in the NCAA Tournament hunt. It’s going to be a tall order against Coach K; however, Maryland is keeping with Duke as they are tied 34-34 with less than a minute left in the first half.
