O's Lose in Toronto; The End of the Road For Trachsel?

Well, the Orioles fought and fought yesterday; however, Doc Halladay and the Blue Jays bested the Orioles, 5-4, yesterday in Toronto. Former Oriole B.J. Ryan earned his 13th save of the season, and they were buoyed by Vernon Well’s big day — which included three hits — including a solo home run, and Marco Scutaro’s 2 RBIs.

Our Luke Scott had a pair of homers and three RBI for the Orioles and Radhames Liz went five innings and earned the no-decision as he gave up two runs on four hits. He also struck out three and walked three. Matt Albers (3-2) was tagged with the loss after being touched for three runs on two hits in one inning of work.

Despite the Orioles’ three game win streak being snapped, they have won five out of their past seven, and are still at the .500 mark after 62 games — a feat that most here probably didn’t think would happen at this point.

One change that I feel is coming is on the pitching front, as I think Steve Trachsel has pitched his last game in a Baltimore uniform. The veteran came into the game during the ninth inning with the Orioles up by 8; however, surrendered earned four runs (two earned) in his outing — he was hurt by two errors — but he looked very hittable and fidgety.

The writing may be on the wall for the erstwhile pitcher.

Trachsel allowed four runs (two earned) after entering in the eighth inning Saturday with the Orioles leading 9-1. He got out of a bases-loaded jam in the eighth, but he was removed in the ninth without getting an out after allowing a two-run double to Kevin Mench and walking Brad Wilkerson. Trachsel stared at the manager for almost Trembley’s entire trip to the mound.

Trembley said before the game yesterday that he was adhering to the 24-hour rule before speaking to Trachsel about the incident.

“I would think that [pitching coach Rick Kranitz] and I will discuss it on the plane tonight going to Boston,” Trembley said. “We have to do what’s best for Steve Trachsel, but we also have to do what’s best for the team, quite honestly.”

Meanwhile, Trachsel said this:

Trachsel said yesterday that he is frustrated trying to adjust to the routine of a reliever. He also said he was surprised Trembley took him out when he did Saturday.

“I figure I should be able to throw two innings and save everybody from having to get up in the bullpen,” he said.

For a team whose offense could be hot, and cold the next, Trembley made the right move on Saturday to stop a potential wound from profusely bleeding on the field. Trachsel did not look good, and at this point, since he’s not part of the tangible future of the organization — he should probably be sent on his way and the spot should be given to someone else.

What do you feel about Trachsel?