Oakland Athletics’ 2015 Team Award Winners
Best Relief Pitcher – Drew Pomeranz
Aug 14, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Drew Pomeranz (13) pitches during the thirteenth inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Baltimore Orioles defeated Oakland Athletics 8-6 in the thirteenth inning. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Yes, the bullpen was pretty horrendous this year. It seems as though they could never hold a lead, someone was always injured, and then the cherry on top was trading away their only healthy closer, Tyler Clippard, at the trade deadline. However, one pitcher that did rise to the occasion was Drew Pomeranz. Pomeranz, who had begun the 2015 season in the Oakland Athletics’ starting rotation, found success as a relief pitcher and was even considered for the closer spot once Clippard left.
When he moved to the bullpen in June, Pomeranz had a combined 3.11 ERA throughout the remaining months of the season. Additionally, he struck out 50 batters and only allowed 4 homers over those 43 innings pitched. He also earned three saves and 12 holds, which was the most among the relief staff. Pomeranz truly thrived as a reliever, which was pleasantly surprising after he was so inconsistent as a starting pitcher.
Besides Sean Doolittle, Pomeranz is probably the only relief pitcher who will most likely make the bullpen next season if he is healthy. With so many young starting pitchers on the roster, chances of his earning a rotation spot again are slim. However, Pomeranz showed more consistency when pitching in relief than as a starter and could be a valuable asset as a long reliever in the bullpen in 2016. Pomeranz definitely deserves the recognition of best relief pitcher for the Oakland Athletics this year since he persevered throughout the entire season.
Next: Rookie of the Year Award