All Things Bubba

The Baltimore Orioles announced today that they have granted Paul Janish his release from the AAA Norfolk Tides. Previously, they had said he would play out his contract, including through the end of MLB season if needed. But I guess they don't need him any more, with Ruben Tejada outrighted to Norfolk and JJ Hardy there on rehab assignment. And, sadly, the Orioles are playing so poorly they are unlikely to need to call up anyone for the stretch run or the post-season, no matter what happens.

Paul said he couldn't wait to start at Rice, so this is probably good news for him.

He's had quite a career. A lot of players were drafted out of Rice that year. Janish has lasted longer than any of them.

Jeff Niemann (#4 overall) was probably the most successful of the lot, by money earned and Wins Above Replacement, but he had just a 7 year career. First rounder (#3 overall) Phil Humber played 10 years (and had that perfect game). First round pick Wade Townsend didn't sign that year and ended up playing just 5 years (the last year in independent ball) and never made it to the big leagues (shoulder injury). Fourth rounder Josh Baker played only three years and never made it out of A-ball. Tenth rounder Chris Kolkhorst played two years, peaking in high-A.

Paul Janish is retiring with 14 years in pro baseball, including parts of 9 seasons in the big leagues. Quite an accomplishment.

Labels: Paul Janish