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The story of Jason Hammel is one of a pitcher that started the 2012 MLB season hot for the Baltimore Orioles before injury problems derailed his chances to reach double figures in wins for the year. Hammel finished 8-6 with a 3.43 ERA after beginning the year 8-2.
The Orioles are expected to be a contender in the American League East again this season but for that to happen, Hammel must get through the whole 2013 season without any injuries.
Hammel started 30 games in 2009 and 2010 for the Colorado Rockies and another 27 in 2011 before being traded to Baltimore prior to last season. Hammel had the lowest ERA of his whole career last season, and is proving even at age 30 that he can become a solid No. 2 or 3 starter in the major leagues.
Baltimore may need Hammel to be the ace of the staff this season, at least to start. That probably isn’t the role that Hammel should, have but it is one out of necessity for the Orioles.
The 30-year old will be successful in 2013 if the Orioles continue their progression as an offensive ballclub. If Baltimore can give the righty enough run support and if he can stay healthy, there is no reason why he can’t win 16 games this season. That would definitely be an uptick from his 42-51 career record, but he has the talent behind him for that to happen.
Hammel should be able to equal what he did in 2012, and without injuries this time around, he could be one of the reasons why Baltimore makes it back to the playoffs.
Andy Schmidt is a columnist/writer for RantSports. Follow him on Twitter @ASchmidtSports, like his Facebook page or add him to your network on Google.
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