Since relief pitchers don't throw as many innings as starters do, their ERA frequently isn't the best metric to use to assess their performance.
In his first year with the Philadelphia Phillies, Gregory Soto has found that to be especially true.
Soto's 4.95 ERA would initially make you think that his first season with the Phillies is going horribly. That's not the case, though.
Yes, Soto has pitched in three games in which he has given up three or more runs, including last Wednesday in San Francisco. Three blowups before Memorial Day is quite a few; one or two are exceptional.
When asked about the difficulties he has encountered so far in 2023, Soto responded, "I don't even know what to tell you, but yes, I am trying to focus on the positives," through interpreter Diego Ettedgui on Friday.
I've made a lot of appearances where I haven't given up hits, as you mentioned.