Cole Sulser entered 2021 as a fringe bullpen piece looking to rebound from a disappointing COVID-shortened season. This year, he will report to Sarasota as one of the Orioles’ most important relievers.
Brandon Hyde surprised just about everyone when he tabbed Sulser as the closer to kick off the 2020 season. Hyde praised Sulser’s ability to throw strikes and utilize his fastball up in the zone. Unfortunately, after a brief period of success, Sulser stopped throwing strikes.
Sulser walked 17 batters in just 22.1 innings during the abridged season. He eventually forfeited the closer role to César Valdez and finished the season with a 5.