MASN Reporter Steve Melewski Talks Orioles Baseball

MASN Reporter Steve Melewski joins the Norris and Davis show to discuss the recent happenings with the Orioles. Biggest headline of the day is the report that Orioles first round pick in the 2012 draft (4th overall) Kevin Gausman, will be joining the big league club to make his first career start on Thursday in Toronto. His highly anticipated debut is coming less then a year after being drafted.

Steve started out by asking Melewski about Gausman and if he is ready for his start. Melewski said he was surprised by the move because the organization hinted in another direction. However, Melewski expressed confidence in Gausman explaining that he  is a mature, polished kid who can handle the bumps and bruises that will inevitably come in the Big Leagues.

Bob questioned the move as an act of desperation. Melewski remarked that the six game losing streak got management moving in a strong direction to fix issues in the rotation. He went on to discuss some of Gausman’s weird quirks. Before each start, Gausmam does a javlin-like leap to begin his warm-ups. Look for it in Toronto tomorrow.

Next, Steve remarked on the failings of other starters in the rotation. Melewski explained that the move is one made to improve the organization, not necessarily one of panic. Other than Chris Sale, Gausman, after appearing only in roughly 60 innings in the minors, the young stud is making a remarkably quick descent into the big leagues.

In conclusion, Melewski moved on to discuss Closer, Jim Johnson. He believes the issues with the closer are mental and that he is putting too much pressure on himself. Johnson explained after the game that his personal battle is to relax and let his natural ability take over. Steve questioned whether issues are mechanical or mental issues. Melewski explained there might be some mechanical issues that the coaching staff has been working on.

Melewski explained it is too early to say Johnson is back to usual form. His confidence is not totally destroyed. Johnson is a guy who wants the ball in any situation and Buck has his back.