My golf game sucks. It’s so bad that I almost dread playing golf now. But every golfer will tell you that no matter how poorly you played, you will always have “the shot or shots that bring you back.”
After watching the Oriole’s rookies pitch this week, I have that glimpse of something that gives me hope for the future. It was three phenomenal performances by three highly touted arms.
On Sunday, Brian Matusz pitched the 1st gem. His line looked something like this- 7 innings, 111 pitches, 2 hits, 0 runs, o er, 3 bb, 8 k. He did this against Boston. For one day he commanded all of his pitches, and he looked like the pitcher we have always hoped he would be.
On Tuesday, Jake Arrieta took the mound in Detroit and delivered a solid performance verses a strong offensive teams. His line was 6.1 innings, 696 pitches, 7 hits, 1 run, 1 er, 2 bb, 4 k. unfortunately for him, the bullpen couldn’t get him the win, but it doesn’t take away from what he did on the mound.
Then last night, Chris “Too Tall” Tillman showed the Rangers offense what it feels like play for the O’s offense. His line was awesome- 7.1 innings, 109 pitches, 2 hits, 1 run, 0 er, 1 bb, 3 k.
Now sprinkled in there were some bad outings. On Friday, Matusz only went 3 innings and gave up 4 runs.
The O’s were swept by the Tigers. The O’s are still in last place. I will probably still lose my bet that they will lose less than 90 games. For one week, I can sit and enjoy wonderful moments amidst all the awful reality.
And that is why I can remain an O’s fan, it’s the shots that bring me back.
