Spring Training

A quick final Orioles’ roster projection

SARASOTA—The moving trucks have loaded up the equipment. Cars are being shipped to Baltimore, and there are some empty spaces in the clubhouse. Opening Day is a week away, and the Orioles will be leaving Sarasota for home after Saturday’s game.

There are still moves to be made, so let’s take a final look at the Orioles’ projected lineup.

Of course, moves can be made before the March 26th opener.

CONTINUE READING BELOW

Starting pitchers (5): Trevor Rogers, Kyle Bradish, Shane Baz, Chris Bassitt, Dean Kremer

Under consideration: Zach Eflin

Rogers will start Thursday night against Pittsburgh in the evening half of the Orioles’ split-squad, while Eflin, whose second start was truncated because of rain, hasn’t completed three innings in a game. Eflin, who had back surgery last August, did throw in the Orioles’ new indoor facility after rain ended his start last Sunday night. He’s set to start against the New York Yankees in Tampa on Friday.

Relievers (8): Keegan Akin, Yennier Cano, Dietrich Enns, Rico Garcia, Ryan Helsley, Yaramil Hiraldo, Tyler Wells, Grant Wolfram,

CONTINUE READING BELOW

Under consideration: Jackson Kowar, Albert Suárez,

The final roster spot seems to be between Hiraldo, Kowar and Suárez. Kowar, who doesn’t have an option remaining, is scheduled to pitch on Thursday night. Suárez can opt out of his contract if he isn’t added to the 40-man roster in advance of Opening Day. He has a 7.59 ERA in four appearances.

Catchers (2): Samuel Basallo, Adley Rutschman

Under consideration: Maverick Handley, Sam Huff

Basallo and Rutschman will share catching duties while Handley and Huff will be ready in case there’s an issue.

CONTINUE READING BELOW

Infielders: Blaze Alexander, Pete Alonso, Gunnar Henderson, Jeremiah Jackson, Coby Mayo, Ryan Mountcastle

Under consideration: José Barrero, Thairo Estrada, Bryan Ramos, Luis Vázquez, Weston Wilson

Jeremiah Jackson has had a solid spring, and with Jackson Holliday and Jordan Westburg starting the season on the injured list, he’ll come in handy with his ability to play second and third base. Ramos has hit well and doesn’t have any options remaining.

Outfielders (5): Dylan Beavers, Colton Cowser, Tyler O’Neill, Leody Taveras, Taylor Ward

Under consideration: Heston Kjerstad, Jhonkensy Noel

Kjerstad had a strong start, but he’s slumped since. Noel has shown well this spring and can be a depth option at Triple-A Norfolk.

Call for questions: I answer Orioles questions most weekdays. Please send yours to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com

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Rich Dubroff

Rich Dubroff grew up in Brooklyn as a fan of New York teams, but after he moved to Baltimore, quickly adopted the Orioles and Colts. After nearly two decades as a freelancer assisting on Orioles coverage for several outlets, principally The Capital in Annapolis and The Carroll County Times, Dubroff began covering the team fulltime in 2011. He spent five years at Comcast SportsNet’s website and for the last two seasons, wrote for PressBoxonline.com, Dubroff lives in Baltimore with his wife of more than 30 years, Susan.

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