One-on-One with Jason Berken

First start, first win, talk about Tuesday night.

"It was an awesome experience ... I was surprised everyone in my family was more nervous than I was. I was just waiting for it for such a long time. I was just anxious to get out there. I was just excited and anxious."

Does anything come close to preparing you for that? Did it compare at all to pitching in the 2006 College World Series?

"The (College World Series) experience was great. I wish I would have a pitched a little better. Coming from a program like Clemson gets you prepared for situations like this, playing in front of large crowds, you get a taste."

You've had obstacles in your career, including a very talented Baltimore system with highly regarded pitching prospects like Chris Tillman and Jake Arrieta. What was/is the competition like?

"Those things are totally out of my control. I just try to focus on things I can control, which is pitching well and working hard. I knew if I continued to put up wins and numbers in the minors and sooner or later I would get my chance and when that chance came I was going to take full advantage of it. We have a lot of great pitchers in the system and it's always good to have quality competition. I played with Tillman last year, (Brad) Bergesen, David Hernandez just got called up. We were all on the same staff last year (Double-A Bowie) and we all had at least 10 wins. We are all good friends but I think that friendly competition makes anyone better."

What can you tell us about Matt Weiters, who made his debut Friday, and whom everyone is buzzing about? You've had an opportunity to play with him.

"He's the best baseball player I've ever played with ... He's just a total talent. Defensively he really throws well. He calls a great game. His numbers hitting speak for themselves. He covers both sides of the plate, he's a really advanced hitter."

Baltimore has been down for over a decade, but when you look at Tampa's turnaround and the depth in the Orioles system are you optimistic … despite playing in the American League East?

"It's exciting. It shows you the young talent and depth in the minor leagues so we don't have to spend a lot of money. I've had a chance to see Adam Jones play the other night and he is the best athlete I have ever seen in my life. The future is bright in Baltimore, it's exciting to be a part of."

You earned the No. 1 starter designation in 2005 at Clemson and then injured your elbow, which required Tommy John surgery. How did that experience affect you?

"It was a tough thing to deal with. It made me appreciate the game and see how much I love baseball. It just put it in perspective for me. I remember I was at home and we (Clemson) watching at Baylor (at the 2005 super regional) and I remember watching it. It was a very hard experience."

Do you still follow Clemson?

"I still follow the guys all the time. I follow the scores, I know they are hosting this weekend, I try to stay in touch with guys from the team as best I can. I know there are still a couple guys left there right now that I play with…still keep in touch with Coach Leggett."

Trembley has spent time in Charleston, how do you measure up your new manager?

"I got a chance to meet him in spring training this year. He is an awesome guy. He is real old school. He expects us to play the right way, he expect us to work hard. I think he has obviously done good things for the Orioles. I have a lot of respect for him."

Trembley was impressed by your poise. Have you always had that or was that developed?

"I think you just have it. Coach Leggett always referred to me as a bulldog, a battler ... I really take a lot of pride in going out to the mound and competing. Leave it all out there you never when it could be your last start, when another opportunity could come."

Lastly, did you see there was a shirtless group with your name painted across their chests Tuesday? It appears you already have a cult following.

"Yeah, at the high school I worked out at during the offseason I became close with a bunch of guys and their coach. They were pretty excited to come to the game."