Berken dominating Eastern League

Baysox righty David Hernandez is leading the Eastern League with 37 strikeouts. However, his righty rotation mate Jason Berken is a more dominating pitcher according to another metric. 

Jason Berken (from baysox.com)

Berken leads the Eastern League with a 15.0 K/BB ratio through 26.2 innings with Bowie in 2008. Henandez has a 2.68 K/BB in 2008. The 2007 Eastern League leader Scott Patterson of Trenton  had a 6.04 K/BB and 2006 leader Shawn Hill of Harrisburg had a 6.40 K/BB.

Berken was a sixth round 2006 draft pick out of Clemson with a reputation as a control artist who pitched to contact. In 2007, he had a 1.38 WHIP, 2.92 BB/9, and 7.39 K/9 in 151 innings with Frederick (High A). In 2008, Berken has used his plus fastball (87 to 92 mph), solid curve, and developing change up to notch a 0.98 WHIP, 0.68 BB/9 and 10.13 K/9. 

Today, the Baysox bullpen couldn’t keep the lead after Berken’s five fantastic innings against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Berken was not involved in the decision and his record stands at one win and two loses. If he continues to pitch like he has and his teammates cooperate, Berken should add to that win total shortly.