Today was a big day for the Baltimore Orioles, not so much for the loss they had against the St. Louis Cardinals down in Fort Lauderdale, but for the flurry of activity that has taken place on the roster.
First off, Hayden Penn is out of the starting rotation hunt as he was horrible — a recurring theme down in Florida — as he gave up six runs (all earned) on eight hits in 3 2/3 innings of work; therefore, it was announced after the game about he being demoted to the bullpen. However, one could assume his spot on the team is in serious question…
Penn spoke after the game and said (courtesy of the Baltimore Sun):
The Orioles will now have to make a decision on Penn, who is out of options. He appears to be a longshot for a bullpen role.
After seemingly umpteen years in the organization, injuries, questions about his makeup and maturity, I more than likely see Penn being put on waivers. Assuming he can pass through waivers, I’m sure he’ll be sent down to Norfolk, or just outright released. If Penn joins the Triple-A team, he very well may be seen in an Oriole uniform again if he can dominate at that there.
He has always pitched fairly well in the minors, but cannot seem to harness his skills at the Major League level. Could it be consistency, his work ethic, or he just can’t cut it?
In other news, Alfredo Simon has now officially been named the fifth starter; therefore, here’s your projected pitching rotation for the Orioles:
- Jeremy Guthrie
- Koji Uehara
- Adam Eaton
- Mark Hendrickson (the lefty)
- Alfredo Simon
Let’s hope the rotation suprises…
