Yesterday the Orioles signed pitcher Jamie Moyer to a minor league contract. Moyer, who earlier this season set a Major League record by being the oldest player to win a Major League game, was designated for assignment by the Rockies last week and officially released earlier this week. He will report to Triple A Norfolk and start Saturday for the Tides. He was 2-5 with a 5.70 ERA with the Rockies.
Jay’s Take: I was actually writing a “Jay’s Take” about Moyer and if it was the end of the line for him, but unfortunately I failed to get my shit together and finish it. In saying that, this signing doesn’t come as a surprise to me. Before he signed a minor-league contract with the Rockies this winter there were rumors he was going to Baltimore. I also think he’s a great clubhouse fit (which after listening to Baltimore sports radio I’m clearly in the minority).
At 49-years-old, no one expects Moyer to anchor this young rotation. Anyone who thinks that Jamie and his 79 MPH fastball is going to dominate the Yankees or Red Sox is mental. What he can do is be a better option as a fifth starter than Tommy Hunter or Dana Evaland (although Zach Britton should return soon). More importantly is the knowledge he brings to the table. When he was in Philadelphia Cole Hamels credited Moyer for improving his game as well as Kyle Kendrick and other members of the pitching staff. Given the fact the Orioles don’t have a real veteran in the rotation (with all due respect to Jason Hammel), his knowledge and leadership are more valuable than what he can due on the mound.
It’s unknown how long Moyer will be in Norfolk (which will be decided after a couple minor league starts), but the Orioles AAA team has more known names (J.C. Romero, Miguel Tejada, Bill Hall, Joel Pinero), than the active Orioles roster (Steve Tollison, Steve Pearce, Ryan Flaherty, Miguel Gonzalez).
Moyer has always been one of my favorite players so I’m pulling for him. He’s had a goal to pitch until he’s 50, and I’d love to see it.
Let the grandpa jokes begin…
