Checking on Gausman

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

April 04, 2014, 5:45pm

Comments

I've noticed that lots of fans are clamoring for the Orioles to recall Kevin Gausman from Triple-A Norfolk just four games into the 2014 season.

Actually, his name came up before the Orioles left Baltimore, but the demands for his services are louder and more pronounced.

Gausman will pitch at Camden Yards this year. He may do it this month. But the Orioles aren't looking to make changes to their rotation during the first week of the season.

Sorry folks, but they're not going to react that strongly after four games.

Gausman made his first start for Norfolk tonight and allowed three hits over 4 2/3 scoreless innings against Charlotte. He walked two and struck out six.

The Orioles clearly have him on a pitch count. He was done after 71, including 44 for strikes.

David Hall of the Virginian-Pilot tweeted that Gausman's fastball reached 100 mph on his third pitch, according to the Harbor Park radar gun. I can't vouch for its accuracy, but it can't be off by much.

The Tides are losing 1-0 in the eighth inning. They lost 3-0 last night.

And you're worried about the Orioles' offense?

Caleb Joseph has been behind the plate for the first two games. I wondered whether he'd back up Johnny Monell, but he's the No. 1 guy.

I have no problem with the Orioles finally giving him a shot to prove whether he's capable defensively and actually deserves to be included on their 40-man roster after continually being bypassed.