When Jorge Mateo came to the Baltimore Orioles in 2021, his speed was the first thing everyone talked about.
In his first 32 games with the Orioles, Mateo would steal five bases on eight attempts, score nine runs and slash .280/.328/.421. Through those first 32 games, Mateo committed just one error, as he shined defensively.
Mateo would claim the shortstop position with the Birds the following year and would go on to win the Fielding Bible Award. Unfortunately, he hit just .221 with a .646 OPS on the year. Though he stole 35 stolen bases to lead the AL, Mateo struck out 147 times.
Mateo’s defense and game-changing speed made him a serviceable player, but his offense was not strong enough to keep him in the lineup. Eventual 2022 AL Rookie of the Year Gunnar Henderson would force Mateo into a bench role, mostly as a late game defensive replacement and/or pinch runner.
The Orioles’ top prospects were starting to join the bigs, and space was running thin for Mateo. With Henderson and Jordan Westburg too good to keep out of the lineup, Mateo’s role seemed minimal.
Mateo went into the offseason of 2023 with the intention of doing what he could to help the Orioles and remain a part of a new era in Baltimore.
During Winter League Dominican Ball, Mateo would specifically work on learning to play second base and the outfield, mainly center field. The thought process was to become a super utility player and play when and wherever needed.
Mateo, who will be 29 in June, secured his place on the team with a strong spring. His defense improved at each position, his offensive approach was better than it was a season ago and the speed was there that could change a game in an instant.
The Orioles have played 25 games this season, with Mateo appearing in 13 of them. He has taken advantage of his opportunities, stealing three bases and collecting five doubles among his eight total hits.
Mateo is currently slashing .267/.313/.433, all significantly higher than his career averages. He has appeared in eight games (seven starts) at second base, three games (two starts) in center and two games (zero starts) as the team’s designated hitter.
Mateo has embraced his new role, helping to bring veteran leadership and teachings to the new generation of players arriving. His infectious personality and upbeat energy relate to the new energy the Baby Birds are bringing.
Though he isn’t an everyday player, Mateo has found a role that suits his versatility and keeps his unreplicable speed on the team.
What do you think of this new role for Jorge Mateo? 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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