Jo-Jo Reyes: Great Acquisition

Jo-Jo Reyes was claimed off waivers by the Orioles on August 2nd. Lots of fans were skeptical of the acquisition, but I think it was a very smart pickup for the Orioles. They added a left-handed starter which in itself is very nice to have, but the pick-up also brings in a guy that who has some experience. His record and ERA didn't look great when he was on Atlanta or Toronto, but having a healthy arm to eat innings and provide quality starts on the mound is a good feeling for the Orioles.

When Jo-Jo was drafted in the 2nd round of the draft in 2003 he came straight out of high school and was a top notch prospect. He did great in the Braves Minor League system, but when he came up he just didn't fit in with the club. A lot of people believe in a change of scenery and I think Jo Jo might be the same. Hes showed great potential in the minors and maybe he could play a big role on the Orioles with his ability to get strikeouts as he has a 5.7 K/9 IP throughout his career.

Reyes has a 5.7 K/9 IP throughout his career.



The Orioles have tried in past years to acquire an innings-eater. Justin Duchscherer was the target this offseason, and Kevin Millwood was two offseasons ago. The problem is that the average innings-eater pitcher doesn't tend to be the most effective starter. They usually need run support. So by getting a guy like Jo-Jo that can come in and hopefully stay healthy, eat innings, and be effective, this acquisition can be looked at as a large plus. There aren't many other veteran starters in the Orioles rotation, so hopefully Jo-Jo can join Jeremy Guthrie as the two veteran leaders on the staff. At the start of next year Reyes should win a spot in out rotation and have a solid a 10 win season.

Edited by: Michael Natelli (Head Editor - 333 West Camden Street)