Spring training has thrown the Orioles a curveball, leaving key infield positions up in the air! It's been a whirlwind start to camp, and the team is already facing some unexpected challenges that will shape their Opening Day lineup.
The infield is in flux: The Orioles will be kicking off the season without two of their anticipated starting infielders. Second baseman Jackson Holliday recently underwent surgery to address a hamate bone issue in his right wrist, and third baseman Jordan Westburg has been diagnosed with a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. This means both players will be sidelined for a significant portion of the early season.
Westburg's setback: Westburg's spring training got off to a delayed start due to a previous oblique muscle injury. Now, with his elbow issue, he's not expected to return to play until at least May 1st. Fortunately, after consulting with the Orioles' medical team and renowned orthopedist Dr. Neal ElAttrache, it was determined that surgery wasn't necessary for his elbow. He received a platelet-rich-plasma injection on Thursday to aid in his recovery.
Who will man second and third base? This is the million-dollar question as Opening Day approaches. Blaze Alexander, who joined the Orioles from Arizona on February 6th, appears to be the frontrunner for the second base job. For third base, Coby Mayo, who has been diligently working on learning first base, might be the initial choice.
But here's where it gets interesting... The Orioles have several other avenues they could explore. Jeremiah Jackson, who saw action at second base in a recent Grapefruit League game against the Tigers, could also make the roster. Alternatively, the team might opt for a more traditional utility infielder. Luis Vázquez, a versatile player who can cover all four infield positions, will be unavailable from March 1st as he heads to represent Team Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. While he's a valuable asset, his offensive production is considered a weaker point.
Another possibility is Weston Wilson, who has experience at first base, second base, and left field from his time with Philadelphia. The Orioles also recently reacquired third baseman Bryan Ramos off waivers from St. Louis on Friday, though he hasn't played yet this spring.
Could another infielder be on the way? It's not out of the realm of possibility that the Orioles might add another utility infielder through a waiver claim or a trade. Unfortunately, fan favorite Ramón Urías is no longer an option, as he has signed with the Cardinals.
What about Ryan Mountcastle? The absence of Holliday and Westburg doesn't necessarily dictate Mountcastle's future with the team. Mayo is already slated to play third base, and Mountcastle's primary roles are first base or designated hitter. With Pete Alonso on the roster, the need for a backup first baseman is diminished, and Samuel Basallo could also fill that role.
If the Orioles decide to carry two catchers (Basallo and Adley Rutschman) and five outfielders (Dylan Beavers, Colton Cowser, Tyler O’Neill, Leody Taveras, and Tyler Ward), that leaves six spots for the rest of the roster. Alexander, Alonso, Mayo, and Gunnar Henderson would likely occupy four of those spots, leaving room for either Jackson and another utility player, or Mountcastle.
Does Heston Kjerstad have a shot? Kjerstad recently hit a home run off Jack Flaherty, but unless an outfielder gets injured, it seems likely he'll start the season at Triple-A Norfolk. It's crucial for Kjerstad to demonstrate consistent health and productivity over an extended period before the Orioles consider him for the major league roster or use him as a trade asset. As his coach, Albernaz, noted, "He came into camp ready. He’s getting great work in. His setup and stance has proven to be good right now. The thing about Kjerstad is you just don’t know. How he carries himself, his presence is even keeled. It looks like it’s another game for him, which is awesome. Good to see him barrel balls up."
Impressive early outings from rookies: Several young pitchers have shown promise. Cameron Weston delivered two scoreless innings on Sunday, marking the third consecutive minor league starter with a strong performance. Weston's stats include a 5-9 record with a 4.59 ERA, allowing one hit, one walk, and striking out four. On Friday, Trey Gibson, who was named the organization's pitcher of the year last season, pitched the final three innings of a 2-0 victory over the New York Yankees, giving up two hits and striking out three. Levi Wells, who had a 3.48 ERA across Norfolk and Double-A Chesapeake, also pitched two scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out two.
While none of these pitchers are expected to break camp with the Orioles, they offer valuable depth and could contribute later in the season. The Norfolk rotation appears to be shaping up nicely. Albernaz commented, "It’s awesome. All our young guys have been throwing the ball well, and that’s encouraging to see. We have depth. It will be encouraging to see how these guys develop and see where it goes."
Bullpen jobs are still up for grabs: With some relievers, including Ryan Helsley and Andrew Kittredge, yet to make their spring debuts, it's too early to predict the outcome of the bullpen battles. Dietrich Enns, who was considered a sure bet for a spot, unfortunately allowed all six runners he faced on Saturday to score. Albert Suárez, a potential long reliever, is scheduled to start on Tuesday against Minnesota in Fort Myers.
And this is the part most people miss... It's best to wait until relievers have had at least three or four outings before making any definitive judgments. There are many intriguing arms in camp, and any analysis at this stage would be premature.
What are your thoughts on these early spring training developments? Do you agree with the potential infield solutions, or do you have other ideas? Share your opinions in the comments below!
