On Monday, the Orioles kicked off their Grapefruit League season with two games, winning the earlier game against the Tampa Bay Rays on the road; meanwhile, losing the nightcap against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Ed Smith Stadium.
The nightcap was shown live on MASN, and the Orioles did not look all that hot. We all got out first glimpse of Brian Matusz on the mound in 2012, and although his location was off, according the radar gun on the broadcast, he was throwing a lot harder. Overall, he struck out three in two innings of work – against a Pittsburgh B-lineup.
He did give up three runs, however. Then again, it is just his first start of Spring Training. I would not read too much into his result in light of 2011. It is the time of year when pitchers try new things, get comfortable on the mound and build up stamina.
Who knows what will happen to Matusz from here. I believe Matusz still has options left for the minors; therefore, so if there are struggles down in Sarasota, he might find himself in Triple-A to start the season. He will need to show signs of improvement considering the amount of arms vying for a rotations spot.
In other news, Kevin Gregg – who is more likely trying to regain his closer spot – was shelled during his outing. He struck out three, and gave up two runs off a homer; meanwhile, new reliever Matt Lindstrom struggled, giving up three runs in an inning of work.
At the plate, Ryan Adams and Chris Davis each drove in a run.
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In the day game at Port Charlotte, the Orioles won 3-1 against the Rays. Alfredo Simon pitched two innings, striking out one. The pitching corps struck out 14 Tampa Bay batters, despite leaving most of their 25-man roster back in Sarasota.
Ryan Flaherty had a two-run triple and Nick Johnson via a base-loaded walk supplied the offense for the Orioles.
