As spring training inches closer and closer, teams are starting to release their rosters and their non-roster invitees.
The Baltimore Orioles have released both lists, and it’s their non-roster invitees that we are going to look into today.
Starting off, the first position that stands out is the outfield, as there is only one invite. Partially because the trio of Austin Hays, Cedric Mullins and Anthony Santander are the mainstays. Behind them, you have Colton Cowser, Heston Kjerstad, Ryan McKenna, Kyle Stowers and Sam Hilliard. All players named above are on the 40-man roster.
Daniel Johnson was signed to a minor league contract in January. The speedy outfielder appears to be more of a depth piece, as he hasn’t developed into the player many envisioned when drafted back in 2016. He is this year’s version of what Daz Cameron was last year.
• OF Daniel Johnson
The infield is going to get the most attention, however, as No. 1 overall prospect Jackson Holliday will be vying to break the Opening Day roster at just 20 years of age. Holliday was also a part of last year’s spring training camp and showed his maturity. After advancing four minor league levels last season, he is looking to take the next step.
Holliday will be joined by the power-hitting Coby Mayo and the underrated infield prospect, Connor Norby.
With Ryan Mountcastle, Ryan O’Hearn, Gunnar Henderson, Ramón Urías and Jorge Mateo more than likely roster locks, it will be Holliday, Mayo, Norby and Jordon Westburg fighting for a roster spot to start the season.
- INF Jackson Holliday
- INF Coby Mayo
- INF Connor Norby
Catching-wise, the Orioles will be locked in with team cornerstone and leader Adley Rutschman and the veteran backup James McCann. Of course, catching depth is strong in the O’s system, and a chance to showcase some of that talent will happen to start the spring, especially to help get pitchers their work.
One name that caught most fans’ eyes was Samuel Basallo, the Orioles’ No. 2 prospect. The 19-year-old backstop saw time in three minor league levels last season and looks to start the season where he finished last year in Double-A Bowie.
- C Silas Ardoin
- C David Bañuelos
- C Samuel Basallo
- C Maverick Handley
- C Michael Pérez
As for the pitchers, this group has some interest, with bullpen slots possibly still open. While we will see prospects like Justin Armbruester, Chayce McDermott, Cade Povich and Garrett Stallings, the Orioles’ rotation is pretty much set.
While there could still be bullpen opportunities available, most of the players will be showcasing their talents for a later opportunity or possible trade.
- RHP Justin Armbruester
- RHP Wandisson Charles
- LHP Tucker Davidson
- LHP Luis González
- LHP Ronald Guzmán
- RHP Chayce McDermott
- LHP Cade Povich
- RHP Garrett Stallings
- RHP Albert Suarez
- LHP Andrew Suárez
- RHP Nathan Webb
The Orioles will begin with pitchers and catchers set to report on February 14. Pitchers and catchers’ first workouts will begin February 15. Position players are set to report February 19, with the first full squad workouts starting February 20.
A few notable jersey numbers this season are as follows:
- RHP Kyle Bradish – #38 (Switched from #39)
- RHP Corbin Burnes – #39
- RHP Craig Kimbrel – #46
- RHP Jonathan Heasley – #52
- OF Sam Hilliard – #60
Who will stand out this year? Stay tuned, as The Baltimore Battery will bring you daily updates to keep you in the loop all season long as spring unfolds.
Who are you most excited to see this spring? Let us know in the comments below! Make sure to follow The Baltimore Battery on Facebook, Twitter (X) and TikTok, and use the hashtag #baltimorebattery when sharing our content!
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