This afternoon, the Orioles earned their second win of the Grapefruit League exhibition season as they defeated the Minnesota Twins, 6-0.
Wei-Yin Chen – who is one of the new Asian arms on the roster – struck three in two innings. In his first time against major league hitters, he did well and considering his struggles in the beginning of camp, it was nice to see. According to various, most notable from Roch’s blog, he was throwing strikes and had very good command.
One would think Chen is slated to be penciled in as part of the Baltimore starting corps. It remains to be seen how Chen gets acclimated to the American style of baseball with the different mound, ball, and obviously the hitters; however, so far, so good. Today’s outing was particularly encouraging for the Orioles, and for an organization in need of pitching help, hopefully Chen can be consistent from start to start.
Facing hitters in the majors – especially in the American League East – will be a grinder. Chen, and pretty much every other Oriole pitcher will need to be on this season if this organization wants to go anywhere.
Adam Jones and Robert Andino plated in in runs, as did farmhand Scott Beerer; meanwhile, Jai Miller – who is perhaps battling for a bench spot – had a three-run double in the eighth inning.
Armando Galarraga threw two scoreless innings. Hurlers Luis Ayala, Matt Lindstrom, Steve Johnson, Stuart Pomeranz, and Oscar Villarreal each threw a scoreless frame.
The Orioles face the Atlanta Braves tomorrow in Sarasota.
