Everyday on BSR we take a look at a different Oriole’s numbers from last season and set goals for them this year. Today we look at one of the Bird’s surprise stars from the 2008 season, relief pitcher Jim Johnson.

JJPhoto from the Baltimore Sun

2008 numbers

 W   L   G   GS  CG SHO  GF SV   IP     H    R    HR  BB   SO  ERA
 2   4  54   0   0   0  18  1   68.7   54   18    0   28   38  2.23

2009 projections

 W   L   G   GS  CG SHO  GF SV   IP     H    R    HR  BB   SO  ERA
 4   3  63   0   0   0  13  4   77.3   51   26    0   24   41  3.03

Johnson’s 2009 projections are heavily dependent on the O’s starter’s numbers. Assuming that he will be the set up man for George Sherrill, I would assume that he would not be in a position to get many decisions this season. The “W” and “L” columns for a set up man are virtually meaningless numbers. Quite possibly my favorite moment of the Orioles 2008 season was when Johnson got Manny Ramirez to ground into a 1-2-3 double play to get out of a jam against the Red Sox. For JJ to have a successful season he needs to find ways to get guys out and walk a few less batters. He might come in with bases loaded and no outs and will have to get the O’s out of a jam.  I feel really greedy asking for better numbers out of Johnson this season. Expect his ERA to jump a little, but his results from last season will greatly reflect his work this year.

Also check out…