SEASON SUMMARY

The Orioles signed right-hander Pat Hentgen to a two-year contract prior to the 2001 season.  At the time, Hentgen (then 32) hadn't had a good season since 1997, the second of consecutive seasons with Toronto in which he threw more than 260 innings.  But Hentgen surprised in the early going of 2001, pitching very effectively over his first nine starts, which culminated in a seven-inning/two run win over Detroit on May 16.  Hentgen had clearly established himself as the top starter in the Baltimore rotation.  Unfortunately for the Orioles--to say nothing of Hentgen personally--he wouldn't pitch again in 2001.  Hentgen was placed on the disabled list with elbow problems and after a failed rehabilitation program in June, it was determined that he would need ligament transplant surgery, putting the 2002 season in grave doubt as well.  It's quite possible that Hentgen has pitched his final game in an Orioles uniform, and it wouldn't shock anyone if his pro career is effectively over.

Hentgen's success with Toronto came when he mixed a big breaking ball in with a plus four-seam fastball and cutter.  His velocity dropped significantly, however, by 1998 and he's gradually worked in the breaking ball more, along with a straight change and a two-seamer.  Whether he'll ever be able to establish a big league repertoire again remains to be seen.

TO CONTRIBUTE SIGNIFICANTLY NEXT YEAR, HE MUST:

1) be the world's fastest healer

NOTES

Allowed only 36 baserunners in 36.1 innings at Camden Yards....two of those "home" baserunners allowed came on intentional walks...walked 10 and fanned just nine in 26 road innings; nine walks and 24 strikeouts in 36.1 innings at home...had a substantial reverse platoon;  LHB:  .178/.241/.326; RHB:  .275/.327/.431.