Gausman should stay in the rotation
Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher and top prospect Kevin Gausman got his first career win as a starter last Saturday and will get another start when the Orioles face the Toronto Blue Jays. I think it is time that Gausman be placed into the rotation, he needs a shot.
Gausman has a special arm, sure a lot of guys can throw 97-99 mph but few can do it for a whole game. Most guys like Tommy Hunter can hit that out of the bullpen but when starting their velocity takes a major hit. Gausman is one of those rare exceptions.
The Orioles rotation has struggled, the top two pitchers Chris Tillman and Ubaldo Jimenez have had their ups and downs. Tillman has been dealing with a groin injury and it is obvious that it is effecting him. Jimenez has had good games but has struggled with his command most of the season.
Wei-Yin Chen has pitched well but has not gone deep into games and usually only gives the Orioles a good five to six innings. Miguel Gonzalez is similar, Gonzalez is on the disabled list and has shown that he is not strong enough to last a full season starting every fifth day. Gonzalez is the most obvious candidate for Gausman to replace. Gonzalez would be a really good long man in the bullpen.
Bud Norris has been the Orioles most consistent pitcher but has lacked run support all season. Norris is strong and understands the game of baseball.
I think Tillman and Jimenez will still turn things around, it is a long season.
The Orioles will watch Gausman’s pitch count and inning count but even if he struggles against the Blue Jays I think he is worth keeping in the rotation. Gausman has the stuff and needs to take the splash. Gausman will have his rough games but it is all a learning process.
