Should Orioles convert Tyler Wells to a starter? | MAILBAG

Question: Should the Orioles move Tyler Wells back into the starting rotation? It is easier to fill a bullpen slot than a rotation role at this point of the season. Maybe use his time in the minors to build him back up. From: Bill Connor

Answer: Bill, manager Craig Albernaz was asked this question on Saturday after the move to send Wells to Norfolk was announced, and he said the Orioles consider him a reliever.

Yes, the team is currently short on experienced starters, but Wells has never completed a major league season as a starter, and to decide at this point of the season to convert him back to the rotation would be unfair to him.

It may seem easier to fill a bullpen slot, but Wells can help them as a multi-inning reliever. I expect that he won’t be at Norfolk very long. He’s one of the few relievers with options, and that’s why they sent him down. If the Orioles had gotten some longer starts, the move probably wouldn’t have been needed.

Question: I asked this question last year and we are right back to it again this year. When are we going to give up on Coby Mayo? Yes, he improved late last year. The O’s have options in the minors. He’s not worth a thing in trade value as well. From: Patrick Cune

Answer: Patrick, Mayo has been a disappointment at bat. If both Jackson Holliday and Jordan Westburg were on the roster, he might not be, but both aren’t here.

The 24-year-old Mayo can play both corner infield positions, and for the moment, the only option at Norfolk is Christian Encarnacion-Strand, who does have some major league experience.

The team has invested lots of time and effort on Mayo, and I think there are many teams who’d take a chance on him. While his trade value may be less than it was a year ago, I think if he were on the market, there would be interest.

Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.