O's agree to terms with Rupe; Komminsk likely to Triple-A as hitting coach
The Orioles agreed to terms with right-handed reliever Josh Rupe on a minor league deal with an invitation to big league spring training.
Rupe, 28, made 11 appearances for the Kansas City Royals in 2010, going 1-1 with a 5.59 ERA and allowing 14 hits and seven walks in 9 2/3 innings.
He’s familiar with Orioles manager Buck Showalter, having made his major league debut with Showalter’s 2005 Texas Rangers. Rupe made 70 appearances for the Rangers from 2005 to 2009.
He’s expected to start the 2011 season at Triple-A Norfolk.
In other news, Brad Komminsk, who has spent the past three seasons as Double-A Bowie manager, will likely move up and serve as Triple-A Norfolk's hitting coach under manager Gary Allenson.
Single-A Frederick field coach Denny Hocking is expected to move up to Double-A and serve in a coaching capacity. The Orioles aren't ready to announce the identity of the Baysox's new manager, but it's expected to be an internal promotion.
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Comments
Hey! Remember Brad Komminsk's over-the-Memorial-Stadium-CF wall catch/non-catch of the homer Cal Ripken hit back in '89? That was pretty awesome.
In other news: the Orioles are still decidedly (and sadly) non-awesome.
Posted by: Andrew T | November 23, 2010 8:10 PM
Well folks we signed Josh Rupe for the bullpen. He should be a lot of help in there as Koji signs with another team. I guess they didn't like Koji's low ERA but would rather have Rupe's 5.59 ERA...where in the heck is this team headed.....they can't get any lower......
Posted by: bob | November 24, 2010 6:52 AM
I'm still scratching my head on Rupe. Why waste time with a relief pitcher with a career ERA at 5.00? I hate bashing the birds, but alot of their moves makes ya wonder if the FO is bored and just needs something to do. Still shaking my head.
Posted by: Jim L | November 24, 2010 1:44 PM
Bob and Jim L
I also scratching my head at Rupe signing . One question I have is......."when signing a minor league contract " .
Does that means O's signed him for Norfolk/ Bowie and not for ML club ?
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Jeff Z's reply: I wouldn't get too worked up about the Rupe signing, Allan. It's a move to make sure the Triple-A roster is filled out. I don't expect him to factor in the Orioles' plans, but it never hurts to have a veteran at Triple-A to work with some of the kids and eat innings.
Posted by: allan | November 25, 2010 9:14 AM