2008 Baltimore Orioles Fantasy Baseball Season Review: Pitchers

The Baltimore Orioles had a very poor year on the mound, though there were a few bright spots in their rotation and bullpen. Here is a rundown of the biggest contributors from their pitching staff from 2008.

Starting Pitchers

Jeremy Guthrie (10-12, 3.63 ERA, 120-58 K/BB Ratio)

Guthrie emerged as the leader of the Orioles staff, and he did a fine, serviceable job as the ace. He started 30 games for the O's and put up impressive numbers considering the lineup and defense that was behind him. He only pitched one complete game, but he was a decent source of strikeouts and ERA help for his owners. I expect Guthrie to take another step forward next season, and he is definitely worth rostering in the mid-to-late rounds next year.

Daniel Cabrera (8-10, 5.25 ERA, 95-90 K/BB Ratio)

It is stunning to believe that Daniel Cabrera was the second best pitcher on the O's. As you can see from his K/BB ratio, the guy still struggles mightily with his control. He hit 18 batters last year with wild pitches. Cabrera's time to breakout apparently has come and gone, and he is no longer a high-upside fantasy baseball pick. This guy could end up being the equivalent to the Ray's Edwin Jackson, but that is right about where the upside ends. Despite being a workhorse like Guthrie (Cabrera started 30 games for the O's), he isn't a very good pitcher and should be avoided in future drafts.

Bullpen

Jim Johnson, Middle Relief (2-4, 2.23 ERA, 38-28 K/BB Ratio)

The Orioles utilized Johnson often when Sherrill had to go on the DL this year, and he delivered good numbers on the surface. However, his K/BB ratio points to below-average plate control and dominance, so he could easily struggle in the future. Avoid drafting this guy in 2009.

George Sherrill, Closer (31/37 saves, 4.73 ERA, 58-33 K/BB Ratio)

Despite very average numbers on the surface, Sherrill is the best relief pitcher in this bullpen, which says a lot about the quality of pitchers here in Baltimore. His K/BB ratio was slightly below 2-1, which is average for a closing pitcher. However, Sherrill made some good pitches when it counted and was a serviceable closer before he got injured. Sherrill has some great stuff, but should be waited on until the late rounds in 2009 drafts. The Orioles could also address their bullpen through free agency this year.

All in all, the Orioles have a long way to go with their pitching before they become a serious contender in the AL East. If they can continue to develop their prospects at a high level, these guys will be good to go.