Baltimore Orioles Team Report – 1.18.2011

The Baltimore Orioles have revamped most of their bullpen and the closer for this team at this point is uncertain.  It’s unlikely that Alfredo Simon will be back after the tragic shooting on New Year’s Eve.  Then there was his replacement last year, Koji Uehara who actually did very well.  He saves 13 out of 15 games and finished the season with a WHIPERA (WHIP + ERA) under 4.00.  He will be in the lead for the closer role come the opening of spring training.  However, Uehara is not a closer, nor has the slew of Japanese pitchers been consistent. 

The Orioles know that and they signed 3G, Kevin Gregg to complete and likely win the role.  God be with the Orioles with that signing.  If you know me, you probably know I don’t like Kevin Gregg.  It’s not personal, I’m sure he’s a great guy at home.  For your fantasy team, he will age his owners with every appearance.

Other relievers with a shot, but unlikely are Mike Gonzalez.  The aging lefty could see save chances if 3G’s knee gives out.  If you go any farther you start to get into Chris Tillman and Jim Johnson and you don’t want to go that deep into the Orioles bullpen.