AL East Round Up: Opening Week Edition

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Baltimore Orioles:

The discounted improvements the Orioles made this year were put to the test early. Nelson Cruz endeared himself to his new team and fans by carrying the Orioles on Opening Day. He scored both of the Orioles runs in a 2-1 win against the Red Sox, including an 8th inning bomb. Thus far, the O’s offense has been awfully quiet. Adam Jones is hitting .235 with only 4 hits. Nick Markakis is hitting .190. Even Cruz, despite his initial impact, is hitting .176. Matt Wieters is hitting .400 but only 1 RBI. Can’t drive in runs if no one is on in front of you. The offense was supposed to be the hallmark of this team. Early on, it has been almost non-existent. It is going to have to step up in order to back the O’s pitching. Bud Norris gave up 5 ER in 5 innings on Saturday in a loss to the Detroit Tigers. Miguel Gonzalez gave up 3 ER in 3 1/3 innings in a rain filled affair on Friday. Wei-Yin Chen gave up 12 hits and 4 ER in 5 2/3 innings against the Red Sox on Thursday. And…wait for it…Ubaldo Jimenez gave up 4 ER and 3 walks in 6 innings. With pitching like this, the O’s NEED their offense to step it up.

NOTES:

-Rookie Jonathan Schoop is off to a slow start after hitting .214/.241/.321. He’ll see most of his time at second. Look for Buck Showalter to give this kid the opportunity to grow.

–According to Brittany Ghiroli, Johan Santana threw a bullpen session on Tuesday and it looked good. If it continues, he could join the team in June.