Orioles Stud of the Week

This lefty has long been considered a top prospect after getting selected in third round of the 2006 draft. But after posting impressive numbers while climbing the ladder in the O’s farm system, he’d been a disappointment at the big league level the past couple of seasons. Still just 26, he’s suddenly come into his own as a relief pitcher, successfully taking over the closing duties this year from a faltering Tommy Hunter.

Stud of the Week for June 9-15:
Zach Britton

The Line:
Britton picked up saves in both tight wins over the division-leading Blue Jays this week, lowering his season ERA to a remarkable 0.76. For the year, he’s 3-0 and 7 of 8 in save opportunities.

Studliest Moment:
In the O’s exciting 3-2 win over Toronto Saturday, Britton pitched a scoreless 9th, striking out the first batter, walking the second, and then getting the dangerous Melky Cabrera to ground into a double play.

The Clincher:
More awesome stats: The hard-throwing southpaw has allowed only 22 hits in 35.2 innings and has posted a more than 2-1 strikeout to walk ratio.