Spenser Watkins
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2023Mariners202042750110.110551235854.16
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Dec 13 2023Watkins is signing with a team in the Korea Baseball Organization, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins made just one major-league appearance in 2023 with Oakland and leaves behind a career 5.97 ERA and 1.53 WHIP across 164.1 total big-league frames. Maybe the 31-year-old right-hander can find more success overseas.
Aug 30 2023Oakland outrighted Watkins to Triple-A Las Vegas on Wednesday, Melissa Lockard of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was lit up in his lone major-league appearance for the Athletics this season, yielding five earned runs over 4.1 innings in an Aug. 15 start at St. Louis. The 31-year-old right-hander is officially off the 40-man roster.
Aug 16 2023Oakland optioned Watkins to Triple-A Las Vegas on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was lit up for five earned runs over 4.1 innings in a spot start Tuesday versus the Cardinals as the Athletics fell 6-2. Kyle Muller has been called up in a corresponding roster move and could step into the rotation next week.
Aug 15 2023Watkins will start for the Athletics on Tuesday in St. Louis, Jessica Kleinschmidt of The Comeback reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It had been Freddy Tarnok's turn, but he's gone down with a calf injury. Watkins was claimed off waivers a week ago and this will be his first start in the majors in 2023. He holds a career 5.85 ERA over 39 appearances -- 30 starts -- at the major-league level.
Aug 14 2023Watkins was recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was assigned to Triple-A Las Vegas after being claimed off waivers by the A's last week, but he is now set to receive his first big-league opportunity with his new club. It's unclear what role he will fill, but he has started 11 Triple-A games this season, so he looks like the leading candidate to replace the injured Freddy Tarnok (undisclosed) in Oakland's rotation.
Aug 8 2023The Athletics claimed Watkins off waivers from the Astros on Tuesday, Jessica Kleinschmidt of The Comeback reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins had been designated for assignment by Houston and will remain in the AL West, although he'll report to Triple-A Las Vegas for the time being. The 30-year-old has posted an 8.35 over 14 appearances -- 11 starts -- at the Triple-A level this season.
Aug 6 2023The Astros designated Watkins for assignment Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was the casualty from the 40-man roster with the Astros needing to clear a spot for right-hander Jose Urquidy (shoulder), who was activated from the 60-day injured list in advance of his scheduled start Sunday against the Yankees. After the Astros acquired him from the Orioles on June 23, Watkins pitched exclusively at Triple-A Sugar Land, where he produced a 9.74 ERA and 2.21 WHIP in 20.1 innings over six outings.
Jun 23 2023The Orioles traded Watkins to the Astros on Friday in exchange for cash considerations, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Orioles designated Watkins for assignment Tuesday, and now the 30-year-old righty will add to the Astros' starter depth -- presumably with Triple-A Sugar Land. Watkins has spent all season in Triple-A, accumulating a 7.27 ERA and 1.92 WHIP through 26 innings across eight appearances (six starts).
Jun 20 2023Watkins was designated for assignment Tuesday, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was called up by the Orioles over the weekend but didn't make an appearance. The 30-year-old has posted a 7.27 ERA this season at Triple-A Norfolk and would seem to have a good chance of clearing waivers.
Jun 17 2023Watkins was recalled by the Orioles on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins has thrown 160 innings at the big-league level, struggling to a 5.85 ERA while striking out just 13.7 percent of opposing batters. His 7.27 ERA and 20:17 K:BB in 26 Triple-A innings this season hardly inspire confidence, so it's unlikely he'll be seen in anything other than a low-leverage relief role. Reed Garrett was optioned in a corresponding move.
Mar 26 2023Watkins was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Sunday, Steve Melewski of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins had a 4.15 ERA and 10:4 K:BB over 13 innings during spring training but was unable to secure a spot at the back end of Baltimore's rotation. The 30-year-old had a 4.70 ERA in 23 outings for the Orioles last season and will be one of the top candidates for a call-up when the club requires spot starters this year.
Mar 3 2023Watkins threw two perfect innings and struck out two in Thursday's Grapefruit League game versus the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins is somewhat of a forgotten man in the chase to fill out the back end of the Orioles' rotation. Grayson Rodriguez also pitched well Thursday, striking out one and walking one over two scoreless innings. Watkins and Rodriguez are in competition for spots, and the latter's prospect pedigree likely gives him the edge. Still, Watkins was serviceable in 2022 with a 4.70 ERA and 1.41 WHIP over 105.1 innings last season, making 20 of his 23 appearances as a starter, and the 30-year-old righty could be near the top of the list of spot starters if he doesn't win a spot in the rotation out of camp.
Oct 5 2022Watkins allowed one earned runs on two hits and two walks while striking out three across 3.1 innings in the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Blue Jays. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With nothing to play for, the Orioles opted to limit Watkins' workload in his final start of the season -- particularly after he needed 27 pitches to complete his first inning of work. He successfully suppressed runs for much of the campaign, though he had a 7.59 ERA across his final 21.1 innings and four starts. Watkins concluded the season with a 4.70 ERA and a 63:30 K:BB across 105.1 innings.
Oct 4 2022Watkins is scheduled to start Game 2 of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Blue Jays, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins last pitched Saturday out of the bullpen and covered three innings against the Yankees, and he'll return on three days rest to start the final game of the regular season. The 30-year-old produced a 3.80 ERA across his first 14 outings of the season but has surrendered 27 runs over his past 38 innings, and he'll look to finish the campaign on a high note Wednesday.
Sep 27 2022Watkins (5-6) earned the win Monday, allowing four runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out two in 4.1 innings versus the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A rain delay shortened Jordan Lyles' start, but Watkins was able to absorb some innings in a long-relief appearance. Dating back to before his call-up Friday, Watkins has allowed at least four runs in each of his last three big-league appearances. He's pitched to a 4.55 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 58:27 K:BB across 99 innings in 21 appearances (19 starts) for the Orioles this year, but it's expected he'll work out of the bullpen the rest of the way.
Sep 23 2022Watkins was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was scratched from his scheduled start at Norfolk on Thursday and will ultimately rejoin the major-league club after Tyler Wells (shoulder) was placed on the 15-day injured list. Watkins will pitch out of the bullpen while Mike Baumann takes Wells' spot in the rotation Saturday, per Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com. Over 20 appearances (19 starts) for the Orioles this year, Watkins has posted a 4.37 ERA and 1.34 WHIP in 94.2 innings.
Sep 7 2022Watkins will be optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Wednesday, Nathan Ruiz of The Baltimore Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins has largely been effective as a starter for the Orioles in the second half, but he'll lose his spot in the rotation after giving up nine runs in 10.2 innings over his last two outings. Tyler Wells (oblique) will be reinstated from the 15-day injured list to start Wednesday's game against Toronto, so Watkins will head to the minors to make room on the Orioles' active roster.
Sep 4 2022Watkins (4-6) allowed four runs on nine hits and a walk while failing to strike out a batter in six innings to take the loss during Sunday's game against the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins has had his fair share of struggles over the last month, and he matched his highest total of the season by allowing 10 baserunners during Sunday's start. He was unable to strike out any batters and was charged with his fifth loss in his last six outings. Across that span, he's posted a 5.58 ERA in 30.2 innings. The right-hander tentatively lines up to make his next start at home against the Red Sox next weekend.
Aug 30 2022Watkins (4-5) took the loss Tuesday in Cleveland, allowing five runs on six hits while striking out three in 4.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins got off to a great start Tuesday, retiring the first 11 batters he faced. It was all downhill from there, however, as six of the next nine batters reached safely. The 30-year-old has lost four straight decisions and he compiled a 4.70 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 21:4 K:BB in 30.2 innings across six starts in August. After striking out just 10 percent of batters in his first eight starts, he's fanned a more palatable 17.5 percent of opponents over his last 11 outings.
Aug 24 2022Watkins (4-4) took the loss Wednesday, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over six innings against the White Sox. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins gave up a two-run single to outfielder Gavin Sheets to open the scoring with one out in the first. The righty has not gone deep into games this season, pitching six innings or more in just four of 17 starts. The 29-year-old has been more effective on the road with a 3.72 ERA and 1.24 WHIP over 38.2 innings in eight outings compared to a 4.17 ERA and 1.39 WHIP over 45.1 innings in 10 starts at home.
Aug 18 2022Watkins (4-3) allowed one earned run on five hits and no walks while striking out two across 5.2 innings to take the loss Thursday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins pitched to contact and worked efficiently, allowing a solo home run in his final inning of work to take the tough-luck loss. The strong effort was needed, as entering Thursday's start, Watkins had allowed 11 earned runs across his last 19.2 innings -- spanning four outings. Despite posting only a 48:22 K:BB, Watkins has managed to maintain a 4.04 ERA across 78 innings for the campaign.
Aug 13 2022Watkins allowed three runs on six hits and a walk while striking out one in three relief innings during Saturday's 8-2 loss to the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Zachary Silver of MLB.com reported earlier Saturday that Watkins would be available as a reliever, and that plan came to fruition after DL Hall lasted just 3.2 innings in his major-league debut. With Hall getting optioned back to Triple-A Norfolk after the contest, Watkins should be able to resume his regular starting role on normal rest next week -- Baltimore doesn't have an off day, so he's lined up to start a makeup game versus the Cubs on Thursday barring any changes to the Orioles' rotation. Watkins has a 4.23 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 46:22 K:BB through 72.1 innings across 16 starts.
Aug 7 2022Watkins (4-2) allowed four runs on four hits and a walk while striking out five in 5.1 innings to take the loss during Sunday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins tossed four scoreless frames to begin Sunday's matchup but struggled later in the matchup, giving up three runs in the top of the fifth inning before being charged with another earned run in the top of the sixth. The right-hander had posted a 1.85 ERA and 1.06 WHIP in 34 innings over his six appearances after being recalled by the Orioles, but he was forced to settle for his second loss of the season Sunday. Watkins tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road against Tampa Bay on Friday.
Aug 2 2022Watkins (4-1) picked up the win Monday, allowing one run on five hits over six innings in a 7-2 victory over the Rangers. He struck out five without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Orioles handed the right-hander a 4-0 lead by the top of the second inning, and Watkins cruised from there, tossing 55 of 88 pitches before exiting. All four of his wins and all three of his quality starts on the year have come in his last six trips to the mound, a stretch in which he sports a dazzling 1.85 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 26:5 K:BB through 34 innings.
Jul 26 2022Watkins pitched 5.1 innings, surrendering three runs on 10 hits while striking out four in the win over the Rays. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins wasn't his sharpest Tuesday, allowing a season-high 10 hits. Overall, he was able to limit the damage to just three runs, most notably giving up a solo home run to Isaac Paredes in the top of the fourth. The long ball was his first surrendered over six starts dating back to May 22. Since the beginning of July, Watkins has produced a 2.35 ERA with 17 strikeouts over 23 innings in four outings. He now owns a 4.03 ERA and 1.41 WHIP with 35 punchouts over 58 frames in 13 starts this season.
Jul 14 2022Watkins (3-1) earned the win Wednesday, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over five innings against the Cubs. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins allowed leadoff baserunners in the third and fourthinnings but was able to escape both frames without giving up a run. However, he surrendered his first run of the game in the fifth following a triple from Christopher Morel and a sacrifice fly by Rafael Ortega. Over his last four starts, Watkins has given up just three earned runs across 22.2 innings while sporting a 17:5 K:BB during that span. He finishes the first half of the 2022 campaign with a solid 3.93 ERA over 52.2 innings.
Jul 7 2022Watkins (2-1) picked up the win in Wednesday's 2-1 victory over the Rangers, allowing one run on four hits and a walk over 6.2 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander delivered his second straight quality start on 84 pitches (61 strikes), although Watkins was far from dominant as he generated only nine swinging strikes. Since returning to the rotation at the end of June, the 29-year-old has an improbable 1.02 ERA and 0.85 WHIP through 17.2 innings over three outings despite a lackluster 12:3 K:BB.
Jul 2 2022Watkins allowed a run on three hits and a walk with five strikeouts over six innings, taking a no-decision versus the Twins on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins allowed an RBI single in a sloppy first inning, but he was able to settle down and submit five perfect frames after that. It was the first time he's completed six innings this year, though he wasn't in line for the win as he left with the score tied at 1-1. The right-hander has a 4.61 ERA, 1.49 WHIP and 23:17 K:BB through 10 starts overall, but he's allowed only two runs (one earned) with eight hits, two walks and nine strikeouts since rejoining the rotation in place of Kyle Bradish (shoulder). Watkins has pitched well enough to maintain his place in the rotation, so it's likely to be Austin Voth who moves to the bullpen once Bradish is ready to return.
Jun 29 2022Watkins is listed as the Orioles' scheduled starting pitcher for Friday's game in Minnesota, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Unsurprisingly, Watkins will draw a second straight turn through the rotation after he allowed an unearned run while striking out four over five innings in his start over the White Sox last weekend. The right-hander should hold down a starting role for the Orioles until Kyle Bradish (shoulder) is ready to come off the 15-day injured list.
Jun 26 2022Watkins (1-1) threw five scoreless innings, giving up five hits and one walk while striking out four, in a 6-2 win over the White Sox on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins' scoreless appearance on 78 pitches lasted just long enough for him to earn his first win of the season. It was a nice bounce-back performance after a very rough start his last time out against the Rays when he gave up three earned runs without recording an out. The Orioles' defense made two sloppy errors behind him in the third inning Saturday, but Watkins maintained his composure and was able to limit the damage to one unearned run. Watkins remains one of the least-effective pitchers in the league and has a poor 18:16 K:BB ratio over 35 innings this season. He is expected to make his next start at Minnesota on Friday.
Jun 25 2022Watkins was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk prior to Saturday's start against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins missed a few weeks between late May and early June due to a forearm injury, but he posted a 5.87 ERA and 1.04 WHIP in 7.2 innings over three starts at Norfolk after returning to action. Over his last three major-league starts, the right-hander gave up 12 runs in 7.2 innings.
Jun 24 2022Manager Brandon Hyde said Watkins will be added to the big-league roster to start Saturday against the White Sox, Nathan Ruiz of The Baltimore Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old is already with the Orioles on the taxi squad, so it's not a major surprise he'll be activated to fill the rotation spot of Kyle Bradish (shoulder), who landed on the injured list Friday. Watkins has made eight starts for Baltimore this season and has a 6.00 ERA, 1.70 WHIP and 14:15 K:BB across 30 innings, so he's not guaranteed to stick in the rotation behind Saturday.
Jun 8 2022Watkins (forearm) was reinstated from the 15-day injured list and optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Wednesday, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander threw several bullpen sessions over the last few weeks and will return from the injured list after spending just over the minimum of 15 days on the shelf. However, Dean Kremer has been named Baltimore's fifth starter, so Watkins will join the rotation in Norfolk for now. Watkins should be one of the top candidates for a call-up if the Orioles need an additional starter.
Jun 7 2022Watkins (forearm) threw another bullpen session Tuesday and could be activated from the 15-day injured list within the coming days, Rich Dubroff of BaltimoreBaseball.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was first eligible to come off the IL on Tuesday and had already thrown a few bullpen sessions beforehand, but the Orioles wanted to reassess how he felt following one more throwing workout. Prior to landing on the shelf with the bruised right forearm, Watkins had made eight starts for Baltimore and posted a 6.00 ERA, 1.70 WHIP and 14:15 K:BB in 30 innings. He likely won't have a spot in the rotation waiting for him once activated, as manager Brandon Hyde already appointed Dean Kremer as the team's fifth starter this week.
Jun 5 2022Watkins (forearm) has thrown off a mound three times and expects to be activated from the injured list Tuesday when first eligible, Andy Kostka of The Baltimore Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins' progress is encouraging, though it hasn't been determined if he'll need a a rehab assignment first. If he does, he'll likely be out a little beyond the 15-day minimum, but in any case, it seems the right-hander should be ready soon. It's also unclear if Watkins will return to a rotation spot -- most likely over Kyle Bradish -- or see some long-relief work initially after activation.
May 28 2022Watkins (forearm) played catch from 70 feet Saturday, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although Watkins' throwing session Saturday didn't require much intensity, he said afterward that he didn't experience any pain and was only dealing with light stiffness. The right-hander is progressing in his recovery from a bruised right forearm, but it's not yet clear when he'll be able to return to game action.
May 23 2022The Orioles placed Watkins on the 15-day injured list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Watkins avoided any structural damage to his right forearm and escaped with a bruise after he was struck by a line drive three batters into his start in Sunday's 7-6 win over the Rays, the 29-year-old is still experiencing enough discomfort a day later to take him out of the mix for his next turn through the rotation. Unless the Orioles are willing to advance top prospect Grayson Rodriguez to the big leagues, Keegan Akin or Mike Baumann could be the top candidates to enter the rotation in place of Watkins when a fifth starter is next needed during Saturday's doubleheader in Boston.
May 22 2022Watkins had X-rays come back negative and was diagnosed with a bruised right forearm after exiting Sunday's start against the Rays, Andy Kostka of The Baltimore Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was struck in the right forearm by a 105.9 mile-per-hour comebacker during the first inning Sunday, and he left the contest after facing only three batters. Watkins allowed three earned runs on three hits without recording an out, and he should be considered day-to-day as he continues to be evaluated.
May 17 2022Watkins pitched four innings, allowing two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out one in Tuesday's loss to the Yankees. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Aaron Judge ripped an RBI double off Watkins in the first frame and then added a solo shot off him in the top of the third, accounting for all the damage against him in the contest. The homer was the fifth that the right-hander has allowed this season while the one punchout matched a season-low. Watkins has struggled to pitch deep into contests this year only reaching five innings in two of his seven starts. On the campaign he has produced an underwhelming 5.10 ERA and 1.60 WHIP with an 14 strikeouts over 30 frames.
May 11 2022Watkins (0-1) took the loss against St. Louis on Wednesday, completing 3.2 innings and allowing seven runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander pitched a clean first inning before the Cardinals got to him for three runs in the second. Watkins was fine in the third frame, but he allowed four straight batters to reach base with two outs in the fourth before being mercifully pulled. All told, the 29-year-old gave up a season-high eight hits and seven runs, pushing his ERA from a respectable 3.22 to 5.19 on the campaign. Things are unlikely to get easier for Watkins, as he's tentatively slated to face the Yankees in his next start.
May 5 2022Watkins allowed three runs on seven hits and two walks, striking out two in 4.2 innings during a 5-3 win Thursday over Minnesota. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins had a chance to get through five innings with the lead but gave up a two-out, two-run homer on a 3-0 pitch to Byron Buxton. After hitting the next batter with a pitch on a 2-0 count, he was removed from the game. He was fairly wild Thursday, throwing only 41 of his 76 pitches for strikes. While he has a solid 3.22 ERA through 22.1 innings, there are some warning signs, most notably his 10:10 K:BB rate. He'll likely make his next start early next week in St. Louis.
May 1 2022Watkins allowed one run on five hits and one walk while striking out three across 4.2 innings against Boston on Saturday. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins wasn't dominant against the Red Sox, as he fanned only three batters and allowed at least one baserunner in four of the five innings in which he pitched. However, the right-hander allowed only one extra-base hit -- to the first batter he faced in the contest -- and didn't yield any runs after the first frame. Watkins has yet to go deeper than five innings or throw more than 76 pitches in a start this season, and he has posted a mediocre 4.1 K/9, but he's been able to limit damage against him to the tune of a 2.55 ERA through 17.2 frames. He's lined up to face Minnesota at home Thursday for his next start.
Apr 24 2022Watkins registered a no-decision in a 5-4 win over the Angels on Saturday, allowing two runs on three hits and two walks with three strikeouts in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was able to navigate a tough Angels lineup aside from Mike Trout, who connected on solo home runs in the first and fifth innings to tie the game after Baltimore jumped out to an early 2-0 lead. After logging 16 games last season, the 29-year-old has pitched well in three starts with 2.77 ERA in 13 innings though his FIP is higher at 4.04 due to a 1.25 WHIP compared to just five strikeouts. Watkins is tentatively set to face Minnesota on Wednesday for his next start.
Apr 18 2022Watkins totaled five innings against Oakland on Monday, allowing one run on two hits and two walks while striking out one. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander induced only five swinging strikes and fanned just one batter in his five frames, but he allowed just one extra-base hit and surrendered only one run in the outing. Baltimore couldn't get much going against Frankie Montas and the rest of Oakland's pitching staff, however, blocking Watkins from a chance at his first victory of the campaign. Still, it's been a promising start to the season for the 29-year-old, as he's allowed only two earned runs across his first eight frames. His strikeout stuff is nearly non-existent, but Watkins may be earning himself a long-term rotation spot with his performance through two starts.
Apr 15 2022Watkins is Baltimore's probable starter Monday against Oakland, Steve Melewski of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old surrendered four runs (one earned) over three innings Tuesday against the Brewers and will receive at least one more turn through the rotation. John Means (elbow) has joined Dean Kremer (oblique) on the injured list, so more starting opportunities will be available for Watkins if he can pitch well enough to stave off the Orioles' long relievers, such as Keegan Akin and Alexander Wells.
Apr 13 2022Watkins allowed four runs (one earned) on four hits and two walks with one strikeout in three innings in a no-decision versus the Brewers on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins didn't get much help from the defense Tuesday, though he also committed an error that led to the Brewers' two runs in the third inning. The right-hander received the first opportunity to take Dean Kremer's (oblique) spot in the rotation, but this wasn't an encouraging performance. Keegin Akin followed Watkins as a long reliever, throwing 2.2 scoreless innings -- those two could be competing for a starting role down the line. If Watkins gets another turn, he lines up to face Oakland next week, though Alexander Wells is also an option to draw a spot start.
Apr 12 2022Watkins is scheduled to start Tuesday's game against the Brewers in Baltimore, Steve Melewski of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since he wasn't needed out of the bullpen during Monday's 2-0 win in the series opener following his promotion from Triple-A Norfolk, Watkins will pick up a start in place of Dean Kremer (oblique), who was placed on the injured list a day ago. Kremer is projected to miss at least 3-to-4 weeks, potentially paving the way for Watkins to earn a longer-term stay in the rotation. Fantasy managers shouldn't get too excited about that prospect, however; in his 10 starts with Baltimore in 2021, Watkins turned in a 7.63 ERA.
Apr 11 2022The Orioles selected Watkins' contract from Triple-A Norfolk on Monday, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on April 6 after compiling a 6.35 ERA and 1.24 WHIP over 5.2 innings this spring. He'll rejoin the Orioles after DJ Stewart was sent down to Triple-A and Dean Kremer (oblique) was placed on the 10-day injured list. Watkins struggled greatly in 2021, posting an 8.07 ERA and 1.70 WHIP over 54.2 innings with Orioles, but he may be a candidate to start in place of Kremer moving forward.
Nov 5 2021Watkins was outrighted to Triple-A Norfolk on Friday, Joe Trezza of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins made his big-league debut at age-28 this season but failed to impress. In 10 starts and six relief appearances, he struggled to a 8.07 ERA, with his 13.7 percent strikeout rate and 33.5 percent groundball rate standing out as some of the primary culprits.
Sep 25 2021Watkins was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old rookie owns an 8.42 ERA in 10 starts and four relief appearances so far this season, striking out just 13.6 percent of opposing batters. It looks as though he's up as a reliever this time around, taking the bullpen spot that had belonged to Tyler Wells, who landed on the injured list with a shoulder injury.
Sep 19 2021Watkins was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins has an 8.42 ERA, 1.75 WHIP and 33:19 K:BB over 51.1 innings this season and will head back to the minors. Recent waiver claim Brooks Kriske was added to the major-league roster in a corresponding move.
Sep 11 2021Watkins was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk ahead of the second game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was sent to Norfolk at the end of August, but he'll be available out of the bullpen in Saturday's nightcap. The right-hander allowed a run on three hits and no walks while striking out three in three innings during his lone minor-league appearance after his demotion. Right-hander Marcos Diplan was sent to the Triple-A club to make room in the bullpen.
Aug 29 2021Watkins was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Sunday, Nathan Ruiz of The Baltimore Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins was charged with his seventh loss of the season Sunday when he allowed six runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out four in five innings against the Rays. The right-hander had posted a 1.65 ERA in 16.1 innings across his first four major-league appearances of the season, but he recorded a 10.57 ERA in 30.2 innings across his last seven outings. It's not yet clear who will take his place in the rotation.
Aug 24 2021Watkins surrendered eight runs on seven hits and no walks while striking out three across two innings during Tuesday's loss to the Angels. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Aside from not serving up any free passes, Watkins failed to show any improvements Tuesday. The 28-year-old has now allowed 22 earned runs in 16 innings over his past four starts. His ERA is 12.38 in that time. If granted another opportunity to start, Watkins projects for a Sunday matchup against Tampa Bay.
Aug 18 2021Watkins (2-5) surrendered four runs on eight hits and two walks with two strikeouts in four innings, taking the loss versus Tampa Bay on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander has now lost his last five starts, and he's been limited to four innings in three of those outings. Watkins' strong start to his major-league career continues to seem more like an aberration. He now has a 5.63 ERA, 1.55 WHIP and 25:16 K:BB through 40 innings across nine appearances (eight starts). If the 28-year-old gets another turn in the rotation, he lines up to face the Angels next week.
Aug 13 2021Watkins (2-4) allowed six runs on seven hits and three walks with only one strikeout in four innings, taking the loss Friday versus Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a decent first inning, Watkins gave up four runs in the second and one more in the third and fourth each. The right-hander's performance is trending the wrong way -- he's allowed four or more runs in each of his last four starts, all losses. He now has a 5.25 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 23:14 K:BB in 36 innings. If he remains in the rotation going forward, a tough road start in Tampa Bay awaits next week.
Aug 8 2021Watkins (2-3) allowed five runs (four earned) on eight hits and struck out four in six innings, taking the loss Saturday versus Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While the right-hander avoided issuing a walk for the first time in his six starts, it ended up not being that great of an outing. Watkins gave up home runs to Yandy Diaz and Nelson Cruz to account for three of the five runs he yielded. After a promising start to his major-league career, Watkins has now given up at least four runs in each of his last three starts, losing all of them. He has a 4.22 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 22:11 K:BB across 32 innings. He lines up for another tough matchup in Boston during next weekend's three-game series.
Aug 1 2021Watkins (2-2) allowed four runs on three hits and two walks with four strikeouts in 5.2 innings, taking the loss Sunday versus Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Sunday was the second start in a row Watkins gave up four runs. Baltimore took an early 2-0 lead in the top of the first inning, but the right-hander gave it all back by the end of the first. He's posted a 3.81 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 18:11 K:BB in 26 innings to begin his major-league career. The 28-year-old lines up for a tough start versus Tampa Bay next weekend.
Jul 27 2021Watkins (2-1) allowed four runs on nine hits and a walk with one strikeout in four innings, taking the loss versus Miami on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Watkins had put in strong efforts through his first three major-league starts, but he ran into trouble versus Miami on Tuesday. He allowed a three-run blast to Sandy Leon in the second inning and an RBI single to Starling Marte in the fourth. Watkins was likely pitching a little better than expected as a 28-year-old rookie. He projects to make his next start this weekend versus Detroit.
Jul 20 2021Watkins (2-0) picked up the win Monday, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over six innings in a 6-1 victory. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the first quality start of the 28-year-old's young MLB career, but Watkins has been impressive ever since getting promoted at the beginning of July. Through four outings and 16.1 innings, he sports a 1.65 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 13:8 K:BB, and the O's have little to lose by locking him into a rotation spot for the rest of the season.
Jul 11 2021Watkins didn't factor into the decision Sunday against the White Sox after allowing one run on four hits and three walks across 4.1 innings, fanning four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The rookie right-hander has made just two starts and three appearances on his MLB debut season, and while the sample size is small, the results are there for everyone to see them -- he has given allowed just one run in each of his two starts and sports a 1.74 ERA through 10.1 innings. He should regress sooner than later, especially since he posted a 3.58 ERA in the minors before being promoted, but so far, he has done enough to remain in the rotation for the foreseeable future.
Jul 8 2021Watkins is listed as the Orioles' probable starter for Sunday's game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The rookie right-hander will unsurprisingly get a second turn through the rotation after he limited the Blue Jays to one run on three hits and three walks across five innings in his first MLB start Tuesday. Watkins has a modest track record in the upper levels of the minors and generated only eight swinging strikes among his 89 pitches Tuesday, so fantasy managers may want to tread carefully with him.
Jul 6 2021Watkins (1-0) earned the win Tuesday against the Blue Jays after allowing a run on three hits with three walks and two strikeouts over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander gave up a run on a hit, a walk and a sacrifice fly during the opening frame, but he blanked Toronto for the next four innings. Watkins tossed a scoreless inning out of the bullpen last week in his MLB debut, and he followed that up with a strong performance in his first start Tuesday. The 28-year-old should receive another turn through the rotation and tentatively lines up to start the final game before the All-Star break Sunday versus the White Sox.
Jun 30 2021The Orioles will select Watkins' contract from Triple-A Norfolk prior to Wednesday's game against the Astros, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Baltimore is in need of a fresh arm out of the bullpen for the series finale in Houston after starter Travis Lakins recorded just five outs in Tuesday's win before exiting with an elbow injury, so Watkins will move up to the big leagues to provide some reinforcement. The 28-year-old right-hander, who had considered retirement this offseason before signing a minor-league deal with Baltimore, will reach the majors for the first time in his career. He had been serving in a starting role for Norfolk, posting a 3.58 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 27:11 K:BB across 32.2 innings.