Only one club saw Koji Uehara as a starter. All other teams showing interest in the Japanese import envisioned him as a long reliever. In Baltimore, Uehara isn't only a starter. He's the Orioles' best starter.
Uehara, 34, pitched seven strong innings Sunday, the club's first quality start since Jeremy Guthrie went six shutout innings in a 6-0 win against Tampa Bay on April 11. He didn't get much run support in a 2-1 loss, as the Orioles only run came in the ninth inning. Uehara struck out five and walked one, allowing two runs on five hits.
Guthrie, the Orioles ace, is 2-0, but is sporting a 4.32 ERA, and allowed eight runs in 4.2 innings against Boston on Friday. Sunday's loss was the first by the Orioles when Uehara starts.
Behind Guthrie and Uehara, the Orioles' rotation is revolving. Mark Hendrickson is better suited as a long reliever, but will remain in the rotation as long as the club's top prospects are in the minors.
Right-hander Adam Eaton has been rocked, and right-hander Brad Bergesen will be recalled for Tuesday's start -- his big league debut.
There's a new saying in Baltimore: Guthrie and Uehara, then pray for tomorrow.
RED SOX 2, ORIOLES 1: Baltimore fell to 1-3 in day games, and has lost three straight afternoon starts since the opening day winner. It was the fourth consecutive loss for the Orioles, who were shut out by Boston LHP Jon Lester for seven innings.
