Radhames Liz

Liz was one of several Orioles starters who shuttled between Triple-A and the big leagues during the 2008 season. The problem was that Liz was an entirely different pitcher at each level. He had a 3.62 ERA and 1.25 WHIP in Triple-A, but a 6.72 ERA and 1.78 WHIP with Baltimore despite pitching about the same number of innings at both stops. Liz really doesn't have much left to prove in the minors, so he needs to come through soon to keep his name in the Orioles' plans. If starting doesn't work out, Liz could make the move to the bullpen, where some have speculated that he could be a closer in waiting. That said, Liz still is reserve roster material until he improves his command.

Liz was the Orioles' minor league pitcher of the year in 2007, after a campaign in Double-A Bowie that was highlighted by a no-hitter and 161 strikeouts in 137 innings. Liz has a fantastic fastball, but much like organization mate Daniel Cabrera, he often doesn't know where it's going. That flaw in his skill set was highlighted in a pretty rough September callup. Look for him to work on his command at Triple-A in 2008.

Liz tantalizes with his electric fastball and tantalizing strikeout numbers -- he's punched out 286 batters in 227.2 minor league innings -- but his minor league walk rate has been subpar (4.63 per nine innings) and he’s struggled when promoted through the system the past couple seasons. While he’s someone to keep an eye on, Liz’s future might be in the bullpen, and if such a transition takes place he won't make it to the majors for at least a couple of seasons.