The Orioles need to add a solid, consistent starting pitcher to their rotation in 2014 — I think Bronson Arroyo is exactly that guy.
Arroyo, who will turn 37 years old prior to Opening Day, has thrown less than 200 innings in one of his last nine seasons. That year was 2011, when he pitched in 199.0 innings. By comparison, Chris Tillman was the lone O’s starter to pitch over 200 innings in 2013 (206.1). No other starter totaled more than 171.1.
Chris Cotillo of MLBDailyDish.com reports that the Baltimore Orioles are one of seven teams that have expressed interest in the Bronson Arroyo. The San Francisco Giants, Minnesota Twins, Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees have also been linked to the veteran righty.
I think he should be a top priority for Dan Duquette and the O’s front office.
Over his last two seasons, Arroyo has pitched to a 3.76 ERA, 1.181 WHIP and has posted a 3.67 K/BB ratio. 44 percent of batted balls against Arroyo last season were on the ground.
He’s also a guy with a resume filled with postseason experience. Arroyo has pitched in 12 postseason games, posting a 4.60 ERA over 29.1 innings.
The Birds use 14 starting pitchers last season, that number needs be at least be down in the single digits in 2014. No, Arroyo won’t be the ace the Orioles probably need to be a serious World Series contender, but he will certainly solidify one of the league’s worst starting rotations with consistent starts.
While he is enticing, he screams of Kevin Millwood. Of course the ERA is less, but still I have concerns over 35+ pitchers.
This goes back to the Nissan-Porsche scenario from yesterday. There AREN’T any Porsches out there now, just Nissans. If you can get Arroyo on the cheap, go for it.
None of these guys will come cheap. Free agents will be overpaid. In this market you just have to be selective as to which ones you overpay. The Orioles need rotation help, I don’t have a problem with a two-year deal for Arroyo despite his age.
I think this would be a great move. Some one else to look at if he decided to leave atl would be Tim Hudson. Highly doubt that happens but you never know, a 2 year 10 million for arroyo would be nice. I’m also with you great to see the orioles trying to deal for starting pitching. Might finally be a busy off season with good possible moves.
I like Hudson too. Sounds like there are a lot of teams in on Hudson this winter. I read that the O’s were also interested in Scott Kazmir. Sounds like anyone that can help this rotation will be approached this offseason.
Yeah if they can some how get Shelby miller him and Tilly could do some damage. But signing arroyo adds another innings eater which we need really badly. I would be really happy with a move like that. Will be nice to see the orioles not sit on their hands for once and actually make a few moves that will help this team possibly get over the hump.