Eric DuBose

Big things were expected of DuBose after a solid 2003 vaulted him into the second slot in Baltimore’s rotation, but ineffectiveness and bone chips in his elbow ended his season early. Unfortunately for him, this may have been his only shot, since he’ll turn 29 in 2005 and will likely take a backseat to any free agent starters the Orioles bring in as well as youngsters Daniel Cabrera, Erik Bedard, Matt Riley and Kurt Ainsworth. At this point, only an exceptionally strong spring can guarantee DuBose a space on the opening day roster.

DuBose pitched well in several starts for Baltimore and threw more innings than ever before in 2003. The Orioles see DuBose in 2004's starting rotation, possibly as high as a No. 2 starter.

DuBose spent most of his time at Class AA Bowie, making 41 appearances out of the pen with a 2.51 ERA. His stint with the big league club in September was uneventful. Most likely starting the season at Triple-A.