“So when are we going to have a real conversation about Chen?” – O’s Uncensored on Twitter
It’s a fair question, right? Wei-Yin Chen gave up nine hits on Tuesday against the Yankees and 12 in his season debut against the Red Sox. He’s got a 6.35 ERA in 2014 and hasn’t made it out of the sixth inning.
Furthermore, we saw Chen struggle in the second half of last season. He posted a 4.90 ERA and 1.427 WHIP over 14 starts.
What happened? Why the downward spiral? Is he lacking confidence in his stuff?
Hold your horses, er’body.
After the All-Star break, opponents recorded a .329 BABIP against Chen compared to the more league average total of .284 posted in the first half. Over his first two starts this year, that number is an astounding .476.
.476! .476, you guys! That’s insane. It’s ridiculous.
The reason Chen has given up 21 hits is because everything seems to be finding a gap right now. Half of the balls in play against him are landing somewhere and allowing the opposing hitter to reach base.
You know what’s nuts? Chen hasn’t walked a single batter. Not one. He’s also only given up one home run in 10.2 innings pitched (0.84 HR/9).
Read more about Chen’s bad luck at Baltimore Sports Report…
photo: Craig Landefeld
