Alfredo falters
Alfredo Simon finally blinked in the fourth inning, allowing a leadoff home run to prodigal first baseman Mark Teixeira. Simon also gave up a two-run shot to Nick Swisher later in the fourth before settling down to get out ot the inning. He has thrown 73 pitches through four and given up three hits -- it was just the length of two of those hits that was the problem.
Rich Hill update: Manager Dave Trembley said that Rich Hill will be joining the Orioles in Texas to throw a side session for pitching coach Rick Kranitz, but is not close to rejoining the team. He'll make several two-inning appearances in extended spring training and probably go on a rehab assignment to Norfolk or Bowie to stretch out before coming off the disabled list. When he comes off, Trembley said, it will definitely be as a starter.
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Comments
Way too many pitches there in the 4th, he'll be lucky to get through the 5th. Looks like it will be up to the bullpen (get used to this, folks) to keep us close.
Posted by: PGPGD | April 9, 2009 2:58 PM
You know, I'm cautiously hopeful that this is precisely what Hill needs. In Chicago, the expectations were high, and they were almost as high when he arrived in Baltimore. With the O's playing well right now, Hill is an afterthought for a lot of fans. Hopefully, the extra time and reduced pressure will result in an effective pitcher when he returns.
Posted by: Sam | April 9, 2009 3:04 PM
Didnt one of your fans interfere on the Swisher HR?
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Pete's reply: I think it was Jeffrey Maier.
Posted by: Calvin Martin | April 9, 2009 3:05 PM