The Orioles breathed new life into the Yankees postseason hopes by losing three straight at Camden Yards this weekend. The Yanks move on to host the Red Sox in what could be a get-heealthy fast series if they can score upon the wobbling Beaners with Mike Lowell and two starting pitchers on the DL and J.D. Drew's status uncertain.
Today's loss was particularly difficult for the Orioles as they showed plenty of offensive pop, but the continued dependence on Daniel Cabrera is becoming harder to justify. Cabrera is pitching to his career ERA of 4.98, but still hasn't developed his needed 3rd pitch, he can't hold runners on base, and is pathetic at fielding his position. All these factors came into play as he self-destructed against the Yankees. Armed with a decent sinker and powerful fastball, getting behind in the count means fastball, fastball, fastball...translation, big hits by opponents.
Daniel Cabrera is a pitching coach's nightmare, but with five years major league experience would be almost impossible to send back to the minors for retooling. Given his temper and lack of composure, questions persist if he has the mental fortitude to complete on the major league level.
It's audition time for starting pitchers with the black and orange. Beyond Jeremy Guthrie, the Orioles starting postions are up for grabs. Until the Orioles solve their starting pitching issues, .500 ball and above will remain elusive.
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