Gamboa recovering from minor back injury
Orioles minor league relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa hasn't appeared in a game for the Phoenix Desert Dogs in the Arizona Fall League since Oct. 16. It was his only appearance so far this season.
During that game, Gamboa allowed two runs (one earned) and two hits in 2 1/3 innings against the Scottsdale Scorpions. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out one batter and issued one walk.
Earlier tonight, I exchanged text messages with Gamboa.
He told me that he "just had a little tweak" in his back, but he is ready to return to the mound. Gamboa added that he hopes to pitch for the Desert Dogs when they travel to play the Peoria Javelinas on Wednesday.
At three different levels in the Orioles' minor league system this season, Gamboa was 11-0 with a 1.08 ERA in 39 appearances. He collected 75 strikeouts and walked 17 batters in 83 2/3 innings while pitching with the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds, Single-A Frederick Keys and Double-A Bowie Baysox.
Comments
Hey Dean,
I've seen Gamboa mentioned a few different places as an arm to watch. The numbers are great, but what is his stuff like? It seems like the O's are collecting some young arms that have the potential to contribute to the big league pen.
Along those lines, how do you think the team should handle the pen this year? Do you think going out and getting help via free agency is the answer or do you think there are enough in house options to head into next year with?
RESPONSE FROM DEAN: I'm quietly impressed with Gamboa. He's not really overpowering, but that's part of the reason why the Orioles sent him to Arizona -- to work on his command, secondary pitches, etc. Of course, being hurt isn't helping him to do that. It's good to see that he is back on course.
As for your second question, I think the Orioles should build from within the system. Do you remember a few years ago when they spent a ton of money on the bullpen? That didn't work out, and hopefully they've learned from their mistakes. With that said, a veteran reliever at the back of the bullpen would be nice. I'm just not sure the right person is available.
Posted by: Blaine | October 27, 2009 10:54 PM
Is it just me, or am I the only one who is getting more excited over Erbe and Gamboa than Arrieta? I feel like Arrieta will be a solid addition to our starting rotation once he's seasoned, but I can't help but see big things for Erbe and Gamboa in the pen. Gamboa as the set up man and Erbe as the closer?
Posted by: LoyolaBmore | October 28, 2009 10:45 AM