I feel like I’ve used the phrase “as this Orioles pitcher looks to play stopper” a few too many times this season. Unfortunately, Baltimore’s 23 losses have provided plenty of opportunities, but few starters have been up to the task. Tomoyuki Sugano will look to change that narrative tonight.
The 35-year-old has been terrific for Baltimore. He’s saved the bullpen by working deeper into games, and he demonstrated swing-and-miss potential against the Yankees. The rookie holds a 3.00 ERA after seven starts, but his xERA sits much higher at 5.45. Can he continue to defy the odds and advanced metrics?