Jair Jurrjens attempting to make a comeback
March 27, 2013; Sarasota, FL, USA; Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Jair Jurrjens (48) reacts as he falls to the ground after he got hit by ball during the second inning against the New York Yankees at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Former All Star pitcher Jair Jurrjens is attempting to make a comeback. The news was first reported by Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, who also added Jurrjens was throwing around 90 mph. Jurrjens had knee surgery back in September, and is currently rehabbing.
Jurrjens has spent time with the Detroit Tigers, Atlanta Braves and Baltimore Orioles. He is the owner of a career 3.86 ERA with 505 strikeouts. The starter, who was born in the Netherlands, burst onto the scene with a fabulous rookie campaign in Atlanta after arriving in the Edgar Renteria trade. Posting a 3.86 ERA and a 1.37 WHIP, with a winning record of 13-10 over 31 starts in his first full season.
He was even better in his sophomore year. Over a career high 34 starts, Jurrjens compiled an amazing 2.60 ERA and a 14-10 record. He had a big down year in 2010, posting a 4.64 ERA over 20 starts with a 7-6 record.
Surprisingly, Jurrjens bounced backed in 2011, and had another great year. He compiled a 2.96 ERA, a 1.39 WHIP and a career best record of 13-6. However, after injury again in 2012, the Braves eventually let go of Jurrjens after he went 3-4 with a 6.89 ERA in only 21 starts.
After signing with the Baltimore Orioles, Jurrjens spent most of last season in Triple-A. Prior to a knee injury, he posted a 4.18 ERA in 94.2 innings in the minor leagues. In only one major league start, he compiled a rather poor 4.91 ERA. His once dominant fastball failed him. Batters hit .412 off it, and it dropped right down to 85 mph.
With many teams in need of some starting pitching, Jair Jurrjens could potentially provide an option. Watch for Jurrjens to secure a deal in the near future.