Relief depth in the minors

[RZNJ]

Two names come to mind.  One will probably be in Norfolk and the other might start at Bowie.   Both could start the season as starters but, IMO, both profile as relievers.

1. Justin Armbruester -  He had good numbers as a starter in Bowie, not so good in Norfolk.  He came in relief in the AAA championship game and got a ton of swing and miss on his 93-94 mph fastball.   Maybe it plays up due to spin or his arm action but it got me to thinking about him as a reliever.

2. Alex Pham -  Drafted as a reliever but had a lot of success this year as a starter at Aberdeen and Bowie.  I watched him a few times and it looked like he could be very effective for a few innings.  Straight over the top and at his best he could paint the outside corner to RH hitters and outside corner to LH hitters.  Pretty decent breaking ball and I think a changeup too.  I had no idea on his velocity but I think a Melewski column mentioned he could reach the mid 90’s.

I think we might see one or both this year but neither is on the 40 man and that’s always important.

 

[oriole]

I could see Seth Johnson being an option since he’s already on the 40 man roster and isn’t going to pitch a ton of innings anyways his first full year back from Tommy John.