Curse of the Moose

Ever since Mike Mussina defected the Free State for the Big Apple following the 2000 season, the Orioles have not had a single starter turn in back to back seasons with an ERA under 4. The only starter to have an ERA under 4.00 last year was Bruce Chen, at 3.83. Well, this season, Chen has an ERA of 8.40 and has allowed 11 home runs in 30 innings pitched. For the record, the only Oriole starters to even have one season under 4.00 since Moose's departure are Rodrigo Lopez (2002, 2004) and Sidney Ponson, in his contract year (2003).

The Orioles lost again at Boston tonight, thanks to a David Ortiz double in the bottom of the 6th. If there is good news to take out of the loss, it's that John Halama pitched two scoreless innings. With no other lefty veterans on the roster, Halama has the potential to fulfil a crucial role for the Orioles. Also, Nick Markakis got two hits, including a triple, which will hopefully boost his confidence. He's struggled of late, but he can bounce back.

The Orioles, 14-17, have Erik Bedard going against Tim Wakefield tomorrow, and then Kris Benson going in the Sunday matinee. The two have been the most reliable starters this year, so the Birds have a respectable chance of getting out of Beantown with a series win. At the very least, the Orioles should win on Sunday, when Benson goes up against youngster Lenny DiNardo. DiNardo has three starts on the season, which ranged from good to mediocre to Bruce Chen. However, nothing comes easy against Boston, considering the power of their lineup.

It's been a rough stretch for the Birds, and it won't get any easier in the next 11 games, 8 of which are against winning teams (Boston and Detroit). If they can head into the Nationals series at .500, it will be a major success.