Robinson Plans Changes Despite 5 1/2-Game Lead

The Baltimore Orioles lost nine of their last 16 games entering the All-Star break, but Manager Frank Robinson said he doesn’t see the season “slipping away.” Of course not -- his club still leads the American League East by 5 1/2 games.

Robinson, however, promised dramatic changes this past weekend in a wide-ranging interview focusing on his approach to the second half. Two of those changes were implemented on a trial basis this weekend against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Phil Bradley hit leadoff the final two games, and could move to that spot on a long-term basis, Robinson said. Designated hitter Larry Sheets did not start against a right-hander Sunday and again is returning to the bench.

In addition, the Orioles strongly considered two roster moves -- the demotion of Pete Harnisch in favor of fellow right-hander Curt Schilling, and the demotion of outfielder Steve Finley in favor of left-hander Mike Jones.

The moves were rejected because of the uncertain physical conditions of both Schilling, who has a tender right arm, and Jones, who has not pitched since coming off the disabled list with a groin injury.

However, General Manager Roland Hemond spoke with Harnisch after Sunday’s 7-2 loss, informing the rookie he could return to triple A during the break. Schilling next pitches for Rochester on Tuesday.

While the recall of Jones does not appear imminent, Robinson remains concerned about his starting pitching. Jones would become the Orioles’ 11th pitcher -- and the third left-handed reliever, balancing the bullpen.

Whatever happens, the Orioles probably will have a different look when the season resumes Thursday. Robinson gave everyone a chance to play in the first half, but now seems more inclined to rely on players who are producing.

Specifically, this will mean more playing time for Randy Milligan and Bob Melvin in the short run and less for Sheets and Jim Traber. Robinson said no player will be benched for an extended period, but it is clear he will shift course.

The trouble spots:

--Pitching: Still Robinson’s No. 1 concern -- the starters are averaging less than six innings per start. Jeff Ballard is scheduled to pitch against the California Angels on Thursday. After that, Robinson doesn’t know.

One possible change, Robinson said, is the insertion of Mike Smith into the rotation. Jay Tibbs (shoulder strain) is eligible to come off the disabled list a week from Tuesday. Mickey Weston (shoulder tear) could be out until August.

Mostly, Robinson wants stability.

--The leadoff spot: Bradley produced eight hits in his two games batting first and was on base nine times in 10 plate appearances. The Orioles’ leadoff hitters in the previous 16 games were 10-for-67 (.149).

Bradley batted .315 in the No. 1 spot last year for the Philadelphia Phillies, and is a career .310 hitter in the second half. He refused comment about Robinson’s new batting order, but probably would make the switch without complaint.

Mike Devereaux is 1-for-22, Brady Anderson is 13-for-90 and Finley is batting .210. The solution probably is for two of them to get more playing time, which means the return of either Finley or Anderson to triple A.

It has been discussed, and it could happen, especially if Robinson decides he needs an 11th pitcher. Finley, if demoted, could return quickly if Anderson continues to struggle. The Orioles want both in a good groove.

--First base-DH: Traber started Sunday, but Robinson is close to ending the charade at first, where he insisted Milligan was the regular while continuing to play Traber against right-handers.

Milligan is batting 26-for-65 (.400) with 24 walks against right-handers, while Traber was in a 3-for-16 slump before getting two hits Sunday.

Robinson said he might continue to use both players, with Milligan serving as a designated hitter. Joe Orsulak, Mickey Tettleton and Melvin also are possible DHs against right-handers. Robinson said Melvin will spell Tettleton more often at catcher.