Orioles: Set For Spring
You guys have already covered this ably in the comments, but just so we’re on record: Dennis Sarfate is out to make room for Miggles, and Mark Hendrickson is coming back. Both of which, I think we’d agree, are solid moves.
The roster for 2010 now looks pretty well set in place. Barring injury or surprisingly poor performance there shouldn’t be any battles for starting spots. The most pressing issues (unless I’m missing something) will be the composition of the bullpen, the exact order of the rotation, and utility/backup infield.
More importantly, the Orioles will enter Spring Training for the first time in years with legitimate depth and stability. They’re mostly young but they’ve got proven veterans in key positions. Around the corner, a second wave of quality prospects waits to prove they’re ready.
Setting aside the projected win total for a moment, I’m pretty satisfied with where they stand. I’m excited that the debates this March won’t be “we don’t have a fifth starter, where will we find one?” but rather “which of these young starters will make the most progress?” It won’t be “which 4-A outfielder and/or washed up veteran will play in left?” but rather “is this going to be a breakout year for Nolan Reimold?”
I know I have to keep my enthusiasm in check, and for the most part I’m doing alright with that. But I’m excited for spring in ways that go beyond the normal anticipation. And I don’t think I’m deluding myself.
In order to be sure, though, I’m going to start a new project. As we lead up to and commence with Spring Training, I’m going to do a series of posts that take a look at the team position-by-position. Starting spots 1-9, starting pitchers, bullpen, and bench. 12 posts total. If everything goes according to plan I’ll start next week and do it periodically throughout the spring.
Start formulating your predictions and projections. I’m thinking 360 degrees here. On-field performance as well as less tangible aspects of development like leadership, personality, etc. Get stoked. The 2010 season is coming faster than you think.
I work in DC with a passionate… no.. psychotic Nationals fan. This guy has held 81 game plans for the entire franchise’s stay in DC.
He and I have a bet going on this season. $20 to the franchise with the better record come October, with an additional dollar tacked on for each win that places (the Orioles above the Nationals).
I’m thinking that’s good for at least $35 dollars this year. How can you put money on a team with Pudge Rodriguez behind the dish over a team with Wieters behind the plate?
OT: I saw A Serious Man last night. Fuuuuuuuuck. That was a gloriously destructive, hysterical movie. I love them Coens.
“Please. Accept the mystery.”
“Dad! Chinese guy!”
“What could such a sign mean?”
“I fucked your wife, Larry! I seriously fucked her!”
“Heck, I don’t even know what the cat story means.”
“So…we don’t really know ANYTHING!”
“There’s another Jew over there, son!”
Fuuuuuck.
I– for some ungodly reason– really want Bedard back on the mound for the O’s. I want 2007 Erik Bedard back.
Greg, no kidding! I agree 100%, and people can say all they want about how he gets hurt, or doesn’t talk to the media, I don’t care. IF we sign both Tejada and Bedard back, those 2 trades will basically say that we got all 9 players for free. More importantly Tillman, Jones and Scott.
I’m thinking 77 wins
BROB hits 50 doubles again this year
AJ and Nick both join 20/20 club
AJ repeats as both an All-Star and Gold Glove
His Majesty goes 25/100/.300 (at least for those categories)
they won’t be too bad.
hell. they might even be good.
they’re at least as good as Tampa on paper.
or something.
@the Wayward O – I always dig it when you check in. Don’t be a stranger.