Player Profiles: Miguel Gonzalez
The Baltimore Orioles had trouble finding starters all throughout the 2000’s, all the losing seasons could point to that. That changed in 2012 and Miguel Gonzalez was one of the members of the Orioles rotation that really made it stable. Gonzalez really helped the Orioles make the postseason with a 3.25 era and a nine and four record in his rookie season.
Gonzalez came to the Orioles as a free agent in 2012. Gonzalez was playing in the Mexican league after he was previously with the Los Angeles Angels and Boston Red Sox organization. Gonzalez had Tommy John surgery in 2009 which had a big deal to do with him going to the Mexican League. Gonzalez originally started off starting for the Orioles Triple-A team the Norfolk Tides. After a successful stint in the Orioles bullpen the Orioles sent Gonzalez back to the minors to stretch out as a starter.
Gonzalez is a sinker ball and curve ball pitcher. To be successful Gonzalez needs to throw strikes and hit the corners. Gonzalez does not have an over powering fastball, he normally hits around 90 to 93. Gonzalez has five pitches which is why he is successful. When Gonzalez is on his game he gets a lot of ground balls and can get a lot of quick outs.
Injuries and starting on normal rest have been difficult for Gonzalez. The Orioles have admitted that they do not think Gonzalez would hold up in a five-man rotation for a full year. Which says something about Gonzalez’s endurance. As of 2014 Gonzalez has not thrown a complete game but has gone eight innings several times. Gonzalez has really good numbers while starting but because of his endurance problems he may be better suited as a long man in the bullpen.
Going deep into games has also been difficult for Gonzalez. When Gonzalez hits 80 to 100 pitches he usually runs out of gas fast. The numbers do not lie however as Gonzalez does have a sub four career era.
Off the field Gonzalez is quiet, he is not very outspoken in the locker room or with the media. Gonzalez goes about his business with a calm demeanor.
Here are Gonzalez’s career stats.
