Orioles' Gabriel Ynoa: Racing to finish line of rotation competition

Ynoa is among a handful of pitchers still in the hunt to temporarily replace starter Chris Tillman (shoulder) to open the season, Jon Meoli of the Baltimore Sun reports.

Analysis:

Ynoa has allowed three earned runs on 10 hits and two walks through 8.2 spring innings (3.12 ERA and 1.38 WHIP). In comparison to his competition, Ynoa's results have been respectable, but not the best. Opposing hitters have roughed the righty up for a .294 BAA while notching three-plus hits in three of Ynoa's five outings. If the season were to start today, the one most deserving of the job would be Jayson Aquino, who has performed to the tune of a 0.82 ERA with a 10:1 K:BB and .175 BAA through 11 innings. If Ynoa does not earn the rotation spot, he'll likely end up being optioned to provide pitching depth at Triple-A Norfolk.