This Campillo Guy Ain’t Half Bad

Written by Colin on May 21, 2008 – 10:45 am

I think we have our fifth starter. Jorge Campillo had a tremendous start last night, translating the solid work he’s shown in the bullpen to a start that could only be described as excellent - going six scoreless innings against the Mets in the second game of the day/night so-called doubleheader. But you can find excellent accounts of that start on some of our friends’ blogs - Section435 has a very pretty picture too.

I’m here to talk about Jorge Campillo. My alternate title was “Who Is This Jorge Campillo Guy Anyway?” Here’s a bit of info on Campillo.

Campillo was signed by the Braves in 1996 as an amateur free agent, but was released in January of 1997. He pitched in the Mexican leagues from 1997-2004 as a starter - and a successful one at that. The Mariners picked him up and he pitched in just two games - one as a starter in 2005, before exiting after one inning with elbow trouble that would lead to Tommy John surgery.  The Mariners released him and he was invited to spring training by the Braves as a non-roster invitee after being signed to a minor league contract on the recommendations of two of the Braves’ top scouts.

After impressing in spring training, Campillo started out the year at AAA Richmond, and since being brought up, has had 13 relief appearances and one start, racking up a 0.99 ERA, 24 strikeouts, and is currently fifth in innings pitched for the Braves this season.

Campillo is described by Cox as a “master of changing speeds” with his pitches - with a great curveball and a fastball that tops out around 89, but looks faster. And Cox compares his command with that of Maddux and Glavine - praise that does not come lightly from Bobby.

So put Campillo in the starting rotation already.  We need someone to replace James and Campillo looks like our guy.  He’s coming back on three-days rest on Saturday against the Diamondbacks, apparently.  Don’t overwork him, Bobby.

Tags: Jorge Campillo
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