How can Henderson and Westburg stay positive amid Orioles’ losing? | MAILBAG

Question: How do the really good players (Gunnar Henderson, Jordan Westburg) keep a good attitude when they keep losing and have no one in the bullpen. It seems almost cruel to make them play under these conditions. Does it affect them in the long term?  From: Sallye Perrin

Answer: Sallye, I was taught a long time ago that a professional does a good job on a day when they don’t particularly feel like working. Henderson and Westburg are everyday players and have played well since the trades.

Yes, it’s hard for them, and Adley Rutschman, who continues to have an upbeat attitude despite the losing and the trades, but they’ll continue to play hard and try to show the other players what’s it like to do your best even if the team is not in the playoff race. That lesson can come in handy in future years.

Cal Ripken Jr. continued to play hard in 1988 after his father was fired as manager during their 0-21 start and the Orioles lost 107. He finished third in MVP voting that year and also won an MVP in 1991 when the Orioles lost 95 games.

Question: Hey Rich, Any word on how John Means is doing with Cleveland? Good guy.  From: Stuart in Richmond VA

Answer: Stuart, you are correct. John Means was one of my favorites to cover, and he and his wife, Caroline, are both great people.

He hasn’t pitched yet, either for the Guardians or their affiliates. According to a report, Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt said he was pitching live batting practice to hitters in Arizona, so maybe he’ll begin a rehab assignment soon and be ready to pitch for the Guardians sometime next month.

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.