Should Cedric Mullins be the Orioles’ leadoff hitter again? | MAILBAG

Question: I’ve had several dreams about the Orioles switching the batting order with Cedric Mullins leading off. With Mullins leading off again, he was stealing bases left and right. He was killing it. It gave him that edge again. I know it was only in my dreams. But I want to know what would you think about Mullins leading off again? Do you think he would kill it? From: Corey McLamb

Answer: Corey, I’m glad that you are you sleeping well, and I’m sure Cedric Mullins appreciates that you’re dreaming about him.

This season, Mullins is hitting .171 as a leadoff batter, his worst average at any spot in the order in 2025. So, no, I don’t think he should be atop the batting order and, no, I don’t think he would kill it. Pleasant dreams.

Question: Jeremiah Jackson is having a very strong season at Norfolk. How is his defense?  What are the chances he’s a late bloomer at 25 and can fill Ramon Urias’ role next season?  From: Craig Russell, Santa Rosa, California

Answer: Craig, you’re not the only reader who’s curious about Jeremiah Jackson. Joe Rees of Aiken, South Carolina, is also interested.

The Orioles had Jackson in major league spring training for a short time, and he’s certainly hitting well at Norfolk, though he’s not drawing walks, which could be a concern at the big league level.

While he’s played primarily shortstop in the minor leagues, he probably doesn’t profile as a shortstop in the big leagues, which is vital for a utility infielder.

Urías is under club control for 2026, and if the team wants to contend next season, I think they should hang on to him. If they don’t, I think they’d look elsewhere for a utility player.

I wouldn’t be surprised to see Jackson gather some interest in trade talk over the next 10 days.

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.