According to Jeff Zrebiec of The Baltimore Sun, struggling pitcher Brad Bergesen has been sent down to Triple-A Norfolk, and left-handed reliever Alberto Castillo will come up to fill his spot. Zrebiec also mentions that because of a few upcoming off days, the Orioles may not need to name a fifth starter until possibly May 1.
Bergesen has struggled in all three of his starts, compiling an 0-2 record with an ERA of 12.19. In 10.1 innings pitched, he's walked six batters while striking out only five. In another loss last night that sent the O's to 2-12, Bergesen lasted only 2.2 innings, giving up four earned runs (seven total), six hits, and three walks. Hopefully Bergesen can use the stint in Norfolk to regain his rookie season form.
In better news, Jason Berken, who came in to relieve Bergesen last night, pitched 3.1 scoreless innings and allowed three hits. In 12 innings out of the bullpen this season, Berken has allowed only two runs. He's also struck out eight batters and walked only two. If he keeps pitching well, he may be a candidate to take over the fifth slot in the rotation, or maybe the O's could look to Norfolk for another option. Mark Hendrickson -- 7.0 IP, 1.29 ERA, 9 Ks, 2 BB -- might be another choice.
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