The Baltimore Orioles opened a new “gift” this afternoon in TexasC, that being Grayson Rodriguez. The former minor leaguer made his first career start today at the big league level, and left us all wanting more. Rodriguez’s line: 5.0 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 1 BB, 5 K.
That’s one of the better stat lines for a starter in his big league debut that you’re going to see. Rodriguez of course replaced Kyle Bradish on the roster, who was placed on the IL. The Orioles needed a starter, so here he was. And he gave us a great showing in making his debut. Manager Brandon Hyde on Rodriguez:
I’m really happy for him. You give up two runs over five innings on the road, leave with the score tied. Did a great job. Great first experience and only get better.
Quote courtesy of Steve Melewski, MASNsports
Rodriguez of course made his debut in his home state in front of his parents and other family. It almost parallels the storyline of the movie Rookie of the Year. That‘s something that happens so infrequently, which shows how fortunate Rodriguez is in a sense.
Rodriguez gave up two runs in the last of the first. One on an RBI-double, and the other on an RBI-single. But he buckled down, regrouped in the dugout, and pressed on. And again, he left us wanting more.
The O’s however did tie the game up in the fifth. Austin Hays grounded into a fielder’s choice-RBI, and Adam Frazier smacked an RBI-single. This allowed Rodriguez to leave the game and be non-decisioned. Which isn’t an awful thing. It’s better than taking an L in your first start for sure.
Unfortunately however, the Orioles themselves did take the loss. Jung broke the tie with a solo homer in the sixth, Lowe’s two-BI double extended the lead to 5-2 in the last of the seventh. Despite losing the finale, the Orioles did take the series in Texas by winning two-of-three. And now they finally head home.
Orioles Opening Day however has been postponed due to the potential for severe weather in the Baltimore area tomorrow. So tomorrow’s an off day, and the home opener will be Thursday against New York at 3 PM. Which also helps the bullpen a bit -having an off day, that is.
Birdland Crush 