Watch CBS News

Bob Haynie: Jimenez Not Getting It Done For The Orioles

After a dramatic 3-1 victory on Saturday night, the Baltimore Orioles were going for the three-game sweep against the Angels on Sunday. On a sunny afternoon in Anaheim, the Birds and their starting pitcher were unable to get it done.

Los Angeles right-hander Jered Weaver scattered five hits over seven innings as the Angels salvaged the series finale 10-2.

For the Orioles, the struggles of their right-handed starter continue on. Ubaldo Jimenez got the call for Baltimore and--once again--did not provide quality on the mound.

Jimenez pitched 5.2 innings as he allowed eight hits and six earned runs while walking three during his 90 pitch outing. It was Jimenez's third consecutive start in which he pitched poorly.

In the month of May, Jimenez has pitched to a 7.81 ERA. He has made it through six innings just once in his last five appearances. For the season, the veteran has made nine starts and pitched at least six full innings in three of them.

His season record now stands at 2-5 with a hefty 6.04 ERA. In 50.2 IP, he has allowed 63 hits and has walked 27. Jimenez has a WHIP of 1.78 and teams are hitting .305 against him.

Orioles' manager Buck Showalter said after Sunday's loss that Ubaldo's rotation spot is secure. For how long, that remains to be seen.

The Birds are in first place in the AL East and have the second-best record in Major League Baseball. If they want to remain in their lofty position, their starting rotation needs to stabilize.

Ubaldo Jimenez needs to be better. I think that's obvious.

If he doesn't improve, the Orioles are going to have replace him to reach their full potential as a ball club.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.