Loewen could return sooner than expected
Good news; the Orioles could have lefty starter Adam Loewen back on the mound as early as next month. The southpaw met with world-renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews Sunday to determine the source of pain in his elbow and forearm.
Andrews, the same surgeon who inserted a titanium screw in the 24-year-old's arm last summer, found nothing physically wrong with Loewen. The pain could be just a matter of Loewen learning to pitch with the screw in his elbow, but as for the bones, muscles and ligaments, Andrew's reported nothing abnormal.
Loewen heads to Sarasota today or tomorrow to begin a throwing program for what Dave Trembley estimates will be a couple weeks. It's undetermined whether he'll do a rehab assignment in the minors before coming back up to the big leagues.
The news of Loewen's projected return means the O's could add another weapon to what has been very solid starting-pitching.
The most recent quality start came last night as recently called-up lefty Garrett Olson continued to impress by giving up just 1ER in 6.1 IP against the Oakland A's. Olson struck-out a 2008 team-high 7-batters. It was a shame he didn't get the win.
The question still remains whether Steve Trachsel will turn, what has been, a tough season around. We do know he'll get at least one more chance to do so. Trembley confirmed yesterday that Trachsel will make his next scheduled start in Kansas City.
Out with the old. In with the young. There is only so much you can accomplish in the minors. Sink or swim with the future. And, get some offense at the corners. Millar/Mora are worthless
Glad to hear that Adam will be back soon. Trachsel though... I don't mind they guy but I think he's had time to prove he'll be a good starter for the rotation and he hasn't done so in my opinion going 1-4 with a 7.43 era. The time has come to release him or send him down...... To Delmarva.