We Got Wood - 45.19 - Valdez Still Transitioning as a Starter

[7teen]

When the Lumberjacks traded Francisco Franco and Gusby Pinkerton this off-season, it was unclear who was really going to fill those spots in the rotation. And while the rotation will likely be in constant shift for all of this season, Roberto Valdez stepped up in April and has transitioned into the role quite nicely.

In April, Valdez made 5 starts and posted a perfect 3-0 record. He tossed 30.1 innings and allowed 16 hits and 12 walks for a WHIP under 1 for the month. He also posted a 1.19 ERA and struck out 15 batters.

"I was used primarily as a starter in the minor leagues, so this isn't anything new" commented Valdez. "I'm fine in whatever roll the team needs me" added the hurler who came to Portland from Edmonton in the, get this, Robert Menzies trade.

In 2044, Valdez appeared in 24 games for the Lumberjacks, but only one as a starter. He posted a 2.54 ERA in 46 innings pitched with 56 strikeouts.

However Valdez showed in his last start it's not always easy to be a BBA pitcher. The Omaha Hawks got to Roberto early and often in his first May start, scoring 5 runs on 7 hits and a walk while chasing Valdez from the game after just 2.2 innings pitched. It was his shortest start of the season and also resulted in his first loss of the year.