Willis Roberts

Willis Roberts, fireballing pickup by the Orioles, was the "mystery man" coming into the season. Once the year began, the mystery continued. How could a pitcher this good be languishing at the age of 25 playing for minor league organizations in Central America?

Later on, unfortunately, the mystery transformed into fans wondering what in the heck was wrong with this guy. Then, there were the unusual ailments. Roberts pulled himself out of a game in which he was being rocked, saying he’d hurt his arm…but no damage could be found. This "pain" persisted for about a week, and miraculously disappeared as suddenly at it had come.

So, it was a very mysterious year for a pitcher who began in the bullpen, moved into a starter’s role, and then was the team’s closer the last two months.

Exactly how did Roberts fare in all the above roles? Early out of the bullpen, he was devastating. In April, he made nine appearances, the first six in relief. He had a 1.04 ERA in those first six contests. And then, he tossed excellent outings in those first three starts, picking up two wins before losing a quality outing to the Yankees.

Then came May 11. Starting again against the Yankees, Roberts lasted three innings, giving up seven hits and nine earned runs. After that game, things became quite erratic. He was shelled in his next two starts, then pitched well against the Mariners. Then in June he was either excellent (3 starts) or horrid (the other three starts.) In July, he seemed to even himself out a little.

Then, on August 3, he became the closer. In 21.2 innings over two and a half months, Roberts allowed 24 hits and 6 walks, about his norm, but high for an effective closer. The Orioles lost three games that he entered with a lead, while he saved six wins.

So, what have the Orioles got here? Hopefully, a work in progress. Roberts gave up 196 runners in 132 innings, a recipe for a little less than mediocrity, which is exactly what Roberts delivered (9-10, 4.91, about half a run over the ML average.) He didn’t close the gate strong…he had an ERA of 6.65 over his last 10 appearances.

Still, Roberts has a solid fastball. He also has some solid temperament problems, and some potential emotional quirks. He also tees off opposing players with some of his demonstrative behavior on the mound.

It appears that the Orioles would prefer to not have Roberts close in 2002. Whether he will end up in the bullpen at a setup man or back in the starting rotation appears to be what is at issue next season.

Roberts still has an upside. He’s only 26 entering the season, so he can still be considered a work in progress.

1. Harness his emotionality, making it work for him rather than against him.

2. Accept whatever role he is given. He can start, relieve, or close for this team.

3. Cut down on the hits and walks…That many baserunners makes it hard to escape innings unscathed.

Notes: Roberts is like the little girl with the curl…when he’s good, he’s very very good, and when he’s bad, he’s horrid:

Yankees, May 11…3.0 IP, 7H, 4 BB, 9 ER

Detroit, May 17…..6.0 IP, 7H, 1 BB, 6 ER

Anaheim, May 23...5.0 IP, 7H, 3 BB, 4 ER

Philly, June 15……3.0 IP, 10H,2 BB, 9 ER

Chicago, June 30…3.1 IP, 5H, 1 BB, 4 ER

Anaheim, July 22…6.0IP, 8H, 3 BB, 6 ER