Were you surpised that Arietta did not get a cup of coffee with the O's this year?
Also, where does Erbe stand as far as next few pitcher callups? Right behind Arietta?
Thanks.

Jake Arrieta threw 150 innings between Bowie and Norfolk last year. While he did quite well overall and shows an aptitude for eventually becoming a big leaguer -- and maybe a very good one -- his last two starts showed that maybe he was running out of steam at the end.

He could not finish the fifth inning in either start. In one, he was lit up for nine hits. In the other, he yielded six walks. These last two starts were in general contrast to the previous eight starts on a team where run support sometimes takes a holiday and power is nonexistent.

I'm sure Arrieta will start off at Norfolk again in 2010. He'll get called up when he is needed and if he deserves it. Say what you want about how the Orioles do other things (or don't do them). This is one area they are handling much better over the past two years.

Attended Arizona Fall League all-star game last Friday. Nothing like AZ minor league ball in the off-season: 1) weather is plu-perfect; 2) five bucks and you can sit anywhere (seniors/youth); 3) good players. Here are some names who have played in this classic -- Halladay, Lowe, Mauer, Varitek, Wieters (yea), Fielder, Ryan, Pujols, Teixeira, Yukilis, Pedroia, Utley, Jeter, Jones (our guy), Victorino. B. Snyder, btw, made a spectacular play at first, and showed off his arm by chucking his gum half way down the right field line. Listen -- when our team has little to cheer, you grasp at anything. Want to see you guys next year.