Jeremy Guthrie: The Orioles may shut down Guthrie for the rest of the season due to an ailing shoulder. Guthrie had a solid season, 3.57 ERA in 29 starts, but with a pretty average skill set; 5.7 K/9, 2.8 BB/9, and a 44% GB, there is a better chance of his ERA rising rather than falling next year.
Javier Vazquez: Vazquez will go on Saturday, a day earlier than his usual turn in the rotation. With 12 ER and an 8/39 BB/K over his last six starts covering 40.2 innings, he is someone that you want active in all formats.
James Shields: Shields has taken a little step back in his power, 2007/2008 K/9’s 7.7/6.7, but has maintained his pinpoint control, BB/9’s of 1.5/1.7, while improving his ability to induce ground balls, GB%’s 44%/46%. Whether it is the 2007 or 2008 version of Shields, he is one of the top pitchers in the major leagues.
Paul Konerko: The injury to Konerko’s knee turned out to be a mild sprain and he could be back in few days. Although he has been better of late, his power has taken a big hit this year, 16 home runs in 389 AB, while his approach at the plate remained stable, 2007/2008 BB%’s of 12%/14% and Ct%’s of 81%/81%. He is only 32 years of age, so you can assume that it was the various injuries suffered this year that has curtailed his power.
George Sherrill: Sherrill should be back from DL today and by default will slide back into the closer’s role. Despite saving 31 games in 37 tries, he is a poor fit as a closer due to poor control, 5.4 BB/9, and a high, 53% FB%.
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