Baysox Notebook: Clark Helps Baysox Find Early Success

Zach Clark continues to be one of the season’s most pleasant surprises for manager Gary Kendall and the Bowie Baysox.

The right-hander has worked his way through the Orioles’ minor-league system since 2006, pitching with Bowie three times before this year in different roles. But Clark has stepped up as a starter this season, going 4-1 with a 3.05 ERA—a big reason the Baysox have stayed near the top of the Eastern League’s Western Division.

Bowie is 18-16 and has a one-game lead and continues its weekend series with Akron Friday night. The Baysox have gotten solid pitching throughout the season—especially from its starters—which is a big reason they’ve been on top of the balanced division.

Clark has been one of the team’s best starters so far. He just missed a complete game Thursday, going 8 2/3 innings and giving up just two runs in a 6-2 victory.

The former UMBC pitcher has struck out 22 and walked only 10. Clark struggled in his previous start and said he wanted to fare better this time.

“I didn’t have a great outing the outing before so I just wanted to bounce back,” Clark said.

FLORIMON ROLLS ON

Akron might not want to see Pedro Florimon come to the plate this weekend.

Florimon has gotten going in his last few games. He comes into Friday’s game on a 5-for-11 run after not getting a hit in the two games before that.

Kendall said that Florimon, now up to .260 this season, has earned his success through hard work.

“He’s in the cage with [hitting coach] Denny [Hocking] all the time, making adjustments up there. He looks like a different guy from the one who was here last year—he’s got a lot of confidence in his offense and defense.”

During the last three games, Florimon has a triple, homer and five RBIs. He’s also scored three runs.

SAVING THE DAY

Jose Diaz is another reason that Bowie’s been able to win close games—he’s gotten 11 saves to help the Baysox.

Diaz is 0-2 with a 1.84 ERA so far this season. His 11 saves still lead the Eastern League, and he’s struck out 17 and walked only four.

A good closer is crucial for a good team. The 27-year old has never made it above Double-A ball, but this is his best season.

The Baysox probably hope he stays right here.