Will Cowser be Orioles’ regular centerfielder in 2026? | MAILBAG

Question: Considering that he has one of the highest strikeout rates in MLB, do you expect that Colton Cowser will be an everyday starter in 2026? From: Joel

Answer: Joel, as of now, I think Cowser will be the Orioles’ regular centerfielder.

Of the other outfielders, Leody Taveras has the most experience in center, and while he has a good chance to make the Opening Day roster, he’s not a sure thing. Cowser is a far better hitter than Taveras, and he’s also a skilled baserunner.

Tyler O’Neill and Taylor Ward have minimal experience in center. Dylan Beavers played some center field in the minor leagues, but not with the Orioles.

Unless the Orioles sign Harrison Bader, who’s still a free agent, or make a deal for another outfielder, I think center is Cowser’s job to lose.

Question: Has my grandfather ever been considered for the Hall of Fame? He pitched and then became an umpire. He had an impressive career. Let me know if you get the chance. From: Edwin Americus Rommel III

Answer: Edwin’s grandfather was Eddie Rommel, a lifelong Baltimorean, who died in 1970.

Rommel, a knuckleballer, was 171-119 in 13 seasons for the Philadelphia Athletics, winning more than 20 games twice and losing more than 20 once. He led the American League with 51 starts in 1922 and 56 in 1923.

He had a 49.8 WAR (Wins Above Replacement), though that statistic wasn’t in use until decades after his death.

After his playing career, Rommel became an American League umpire for more than 20 years.

Edwin, your grandfather was on eight Hall of Fame ballots and received 4.5 percent of the vote in 1960. Perhaps a future Era committee will consider him.

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.