The Rangers acquired two pitchers today. Neither of which will probably make a major impact.
1) James Baldwin claimed on waivers from the Baltimore Orioles.
2) Kevin Grybowski acquired via trade from the Atlanta Braves for Matt Lorenzo.
James Baldwin used to be someone who scared me years ago when he was with the White Sox. I hated facing him, as the Rangers never seemed to be able to get him out. However, looking at his stats over the last few years, I can see why he’s bounced around and was placed on waivers. Not sure what they see in him, unless it’s just an arm to have. His 2005 numbers seem to be a little better than his usual career numbers, but I don’t see a lot of upside to this. I see this move as Pedro Astacio II.
Kevin Grybowski on the other hand appears like he could make a difference in our bullpen, which has been ravaged lately. In 2005, he’s appeared in 31 games, has an ERA of 2.95, given up 24 hits, 12 walks, 8 strikeouts, and 7 earned runs. I’m not sure whether he’s a flyball or a sinkerball pitcher or what, but if those numbers translate here, then he’ll probably do well.
Will have to see what other moves have been made to accomodate this on the major league level. As I write this, there’s no mention of it on the Rangers site, there probably will be some more news closer to the start of tonight’s game.
Update: There a news story on the Rangers site about it now (link). However, they haven’t been added to the 25 man roster yet; the press release saying they’ll be added sometime during the series with Oakland. Probably after Kenny’s hearing tomorrow depending on what happens with a further appeal.