The most telling stat of the 2010 season

Of all the stats, most of them negative, compiled already by the 2010 Orioles, here is maybe the most telling one of all. O's record when leading after 7 innings: 2009: 52-5 2010: 1-4 So, last year, when they held the lead after seven, they won the game 91 percent of the time. This year that number is just 20 percent. Last year, they blew five such leads all year. This year, they have blown four in just nine games. If that number were 4-1 instead of 1-4, their record would be 4-5 right now. With Mike Gonzalez on the DL now, it appears Jim Johnson is the new closer. It is fair to question whether he can do the job, since he was shaky in that role in a limited shot last year. Maybe Dave Trembley will use others as well, if and when, the team takes the lead to the 9th on this road trip. Where does Kam Mickolio fit in? The O's love his power arm, but he needs to show consistenly smooth mechanics and the ability to throw more strikes. He also needs to prove that under his shy, respectful, quiet manner is a bulldog type that will attack hitters. O's bullpen ERA, 2010: Berken and Hendrickson: 2.03 Everyone else: 7.80 Outside of Brad Bergesen's two starts this year, Oriole starters have pitched six innings or more in five of the seven other outings. The three starters before Wednesday (Millwood, Guthrie, Matusz) pitched a combined 22 innings. That was outstanding. But at some point, Dave Trembley will have to call on his bullpen again. How will it go then? Chat tonight: By the way, before and during tonight's West Coast game, I'll be looking for your comments and questions on this blog. Write in about anything - sound off on the team, ask a question, comment about anything in the game vs. Oakland, tell a story, ask a minor league question. It's all good. I'll add in my own running commentary of sorts during the game. I'll be staying up late, hope you do too.