PT TOMORROW: AL East—BAL signings put pinch on others

Baltimore Orioles

Baltimore took in two of the last remaining big-name free agents on the market: Ubaldo Jiménez (RHP, BAL) and Nelson Cruz (OF, BAL).

With Jimenez, the main question is the degree to which one buys into his big finish to 2013 (eight straight PQS-5s, 71/10 K/BB). Jimenez cites something tangible (a new pitch mix) for his success, and his skills confirm (BPV of 117 in August, 183 in September). On the other hand, it was only eight starts, most of which came against non-playoff teams (MIN twice, CHW twice, KC, BAL), so a bit of skepticism remains. At his best, Jimenez limits fly balls, so the move to Camden Yards, at least, should not add significantly to his risk.

The addition of Jimenez bumps all of the Orioles...

Almost!

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