World Champions 1983, 1970, 1966

American League Champions 1983, 1979, 1971, 1970, 1969, 1966 American League East Division Champions 2014, 1997, 1983, 1979, 1974, 1973, 1971, 1970, 1969

American League Wild Card 2016, 2012, 1996

Tuesday, January 21, 2017

Columns:

Though their careers are in different places, Orioles' Machado and Andino share a tight

bond The Sun 2/21

Orioles re-sign outfielder Michael Bourn to minor league contract The Sun 2/20

Pain-free again, Chris Davis ready to punish baseballs The Sun 2/20

Orioles notes: A deep crop of optionable arms in Baltimore and minor leagues The Sun

2/20

Orioles acquire left-hander Vidal Nuño in trade with Dodgers The Sun 2/19

Orioles notes: Big bats bunting because you never know when club might need it The

Sun 2/19

Orioles' signing of outfielder Craig Gentry more than just another depth piece The Sun

2/19

Duquette proud of O's, has high expectations MLB.com 2/20

Bourn gets one-year deal, invite to spring camp MLB.com 2/20

Andino excited about second chance with O's MLB.com 2/20

Andino excited about second chance with O's MLB.com 2/20

Breaking down the Orioles' Top 30 Prospects MLB.com 2/20

Orioles add lefty Nuno in trade with Dodgers MLB.com 2/19

Kim on 2017: 'Less pressure, more fun' MLB.com 2/19

Manny hopeful for eventual return to shortstop MLB.com 2/19

Ondrusek questionable for intrasquad games MLB.com 2/19

Smith in awe of O's bat strength MLB.com 2/19

Machado focused on present, not future MLB.com 2/18

Jones succinct on motivation: 'I'm here to win' MLB.com 2/18

Scans of Hardy's back negative MLB.com 2/18

Orioles sign Gentry to Minors deal MLB.com 2/18

Hardy says his back is “feeling much better” MASNsports.com 2/21

Joseph offers scouting report on Liranzo MASNsports.com 2/21

Orioles sign Bourn to minor league deal (updated) MASNsports.com 2/20

Notes on Nuño, Ondrusek, Davis, Andino and more MASNsports.com 2/20

Quick hits from today’s workout MASNsports.com 2/20

Washington wants to bring more power to Orioles lineup MASNsports.com 2/20

Orioles acquire Vidal Nuño from Dodgers MASNsports.com 2/19

Ondrusek sidelined with ankle injury (plus more notes) MASNsports.com 2/19

Ynoa trying to seize opportunity with Orioles MASNsports.com 2/19

McFarland moving on from disappointing 2016 season MASNsports.com 2/19

Orioles outfield options: Expanding and getting complicated MASNsports.com 2/21

A look at a rather newsy first week of camp MASNsports.com 2/19

Orioles bring Michael Bourn back on minor league deal ESPN.com 2/21

ORIOLES STARTING ROTATION RANKED NEAR THE BOTTOM OF MLB CSN

Mid-Atlantic 2/19

Orioles Re-Sign Michael Bourn to Minor League Contract PressBoxOnline.com 2/20

Back with the Orioles, Robert Andino hopes to make a difference PressBoxOnline.com

2/20

Orioles acquire lefty swingman Vidal Nuno from Dodgers PressBoxOnline.com 2/19

Adam Jones: ‘I’m here for one reason and that’s to win’ PressBoxOnline.com 2/19

Manny Machado’s spring prep moved up due to World Baseball Classic

PressBoxOnline.com 2/18

Orioles Are Eager To Get Started, Forget About Playoff Loss CBS Baltimore 2/19

Orioles’ Machado Practices At Shortstop For World Classic CBS Baltimore 2/19

Orioles Acquire Vidal Nuño From Dodgers CBS Baltimore 2/19

Spring Training Primer: Intrasquads start; Nuno expected; ‘Andino at the Movies’ no

more BaltimoreBaseball.com 2/21

Thoughts on re-signing Bourn and how it affects leadoff spot, outfield, Rickard, Jones

BaltimoreBaseball.com 2/21

Spring Training Primer: Ondrusek’s ankle, intrasquad info, Andino’s absence, small

camp BaltimoreBaseball.com 2/20

Some thoughts on Orioles acquring Vidal Nuno and designating T.J. McFarland

BaltimoreBaseball.com 2/19

Orioles’ April schedule could help mitigate Chris Tillman’s potential absence from

rotation BaltimoreBaseball.com 2/20

Baltimore Orioles Sign Michael Bourn To Minor-League Deal The Sports Quotient 2/21

Orioles Re-Sign Michael Bourn To Minor-League Contract CBS Baltimore 2/21

Orioles reach agreement with Bourn ABC2 WMAR 2/21

Always looking for value, Dan Duquette adds two veterans to Orioles roster

CBSSports.com 2/21

Orioles players visit Brookside for Health and Fitness Challenge SNN News 2/17

Spring Training is back, with a little extra security WWSB (ABC) 2/17

ORIOLES: All hands on deck for Davis Sarasota Herald-Tribune 2/17

Sarasota SpringFest gets fans primed for baseball Sarasota Herald-Tribune 2/18

Long-ball hitting Orioles will need their starting rotation to step up Sarasota Herald-

Tribune 2/18

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-though-their-careers-are-in-different-

places-orioles-machado-and-andino-share-a-tight-bond-20170220-story.html

Though their careers are in different places, Orioles'

Machado and Andino share a tight bond

By Eduardo Encina / The Baltimore Sun

February 21, 2017

There’s no coincidence that inside the Orioles clubhouse at the Ed Smith Stadium complex, the

lockers of Manny Machado and Robert Andino are right next to each other.

They are players on very different sides of their careers. Machado is one of the game's brightest

young stars and one of the club’s most popular players, before his 25th birthday. He’s already a

three-time All-Star, finished top 10 in American League MVP voting three times and has won

two Gold Gloves, including one Platinum Glove as the league’s top overall defender. And many

believe the best is yet to come.

Andino also holds a special place in the hearts of Orioles fans, who can’t forget his Game 162

heroics in 2011 to knock the Boston Red Sox out of postseason contention and create “The Curse

of the Andino.” After stops with three organizations, Andino is back with the Orioles on a minor

league contract at age 32, hoping to get another chance at breaking through, although he’ll likely

start the season as the starting shortstop at Triple-A Norfolk.

But five springs ago, when Andino was the Orioles’ starting second baseman and Machado had

just finished his first full professional season at High-A Frederick, Machado and Jonathan

Schoop would swoop in from minor league camp on occasion to work out.

Machado said Andino took him under his wing -- first in spring training and then when Machado

earned a call-up from Double-A Bowie in August 2012; something that he will never forget.

“It’s crazy how time goes,” Machado said. “I look here by my side [now] and it’s Dino. My first

spring training was with Andino next to me and when I came up, he was the guy and he was the

guy to talk to and he showed me the ropes a little bit.”

Orioles third baseman Manny Machado on contract, preparing for WBC

Now, they are lockermates in spring training. And Andino said it’s amazing to see how far

Machado has come in recent years.

“Yeah I was kind of messing with him today a little bit, [telling him], ‘Look at you [now],’”

Andino said. “He used a Wilson [glove] when he first came up. I was telling him, ‘You gotta use

a Rawlings, man.’ And he’s got a [Rawlings] Platinum Glove [award] now. He’s signed [an

endorsement deal] with Jordan and all that. He’s the man now. So I’ve just got to get back into it,

fit back in again.

“This is their team, I’m just here trying to help them win a championship.”

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-orioles-re-sign-outfielder-michael-bourn-

to-minor-league-contract-20170220-story.html

Orioles re-sign outfielder Michael Bourn to minor league

contract

By Eduardo Encina / The Baltimore Sun

February 20, 2017

The Orioles continued to shore up their outfield defense on Monday evening, re-signing

veteran Michael Bourn to a minor-league deal with an invitation to major-league spring

training camp.

Bourn, 34, can make $2 million in base salary if he makes the Orioles’ Opening Day major

league roster. His deal includes a March 27 opt-out clause if his contract is not selected by the

major league club, according to an industry source.

After he was acquired last August in a trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Bourn added speed

in the outfield and on the bases as well as much-needed on-base capability.

In 24 games with the Orioles last season, Bourn hit .283/.358/.435 with two homers, eight RBIs

and two stolen bases. After looking for a job in April after being released by Atlanta, Bourn was

revitalized by being thrust into a playoff race in September with the Orioles.

Bourn made nine of his 11 starts with the Orioles in right field, a clear defensive upgrade over

slugger Mark Trumbo, who was then allowed to slot into the designated hitter spot late in the

season. But while Bourn improved the Orioles’ outfield defense, he ended the season making a

costly misplay on a tailing fly ball in the AL wild card game in Toronto that eventually cost the

Orioles a run in their devastating 5-2 11-inning walkoff loss to the Blue Jays.

Improving the corner outfield defense flanking center fielder Adam Jones has been an offseason

priority for the Orioles. But the club did little to get better in the outfield defensively coming into

spring training, instead focusing on offense by retaining Trumbo and trading for left-handed

platoon bat Seth Smith. They also took two outfielders in the Rule 5 draft — Aneury Tavarez

from Boston and Anthony Santander from Cleveland.

Schmuck: Adam Jones doesn't care for people questioning the way he plays center field

The addition of Bourn marks the Orioles’ second signing of a speedy, defensive-minded

outfielder since camp opened one week ago. On Saturday, the team added veteran Craig

Gentry on a minor league deal.

Bourn now becomes the Orioles’ 14th outfielder, a crowded mix that includes seven left-handed

batters and one switch hitter in Santander. Orioles manager Buck Showalter has said there will

be plenty of spring training innings to evaluate them all since starters won’t play often

in Grapefruit League games early on and there is the availability of potential “B” games.

The Orioles have had varying interest in retaining Bourn, knowing that he added an element in

September that the club lacked, but Bourn was seeking a major league deal and remained

unsigned going into spring training.

As the Orioles continued to pick up left-handed-hitting outfielders, the return of Bourn became

less likely, but he remained a name the club had interest in. And the Orioles’ camp roster —

which now sits at 55 — still had space.

Over 11 major league seasons, Bourn is a .266/.329/.357 hitter with two Gold Gloves and two

All-Star Games on his resume. While he doesn’t have the speed that made him a three-

time National League stolen base champ from 2009 to ’11 — he averaged 58 steals over that

span — he would be the top stolen-base threat on an Orioles team that ranked last in the majors

with 19 stolen bases.

He has spent most of his career as a center fielder, but still has solid corner outfield range. Since

2007, Bourn ranks fourth among all outfielders in total defensive wins above replacement

(dWAR) at 9.9, trailing only Lorenzo Cain (11.2), Carlos Gomez (11.2) and Jason

Heyward (11.1).

Bourn was released by the Braves in the first week of last season and signed a minor league deal

with the Toronto Blue Jays late that month. He exercised an opt-out clause in his deal with

Toronto and signed with the Diamondbacks, reviving his career by hitting .261/.307/.362 in 89

games with Arizona.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bal-orioles-notes-a-deep-crop-of-optionable-arms-

in-baltimore-and-minor-leagues-20170220-story.html

Orioles notes: A deep crop of optionable arms in Baltimore

and minor leagues

By Eduardo Encina / The Baltimore Sun

February 20, 2017

The addition of left-handed swingman Vidal Nuño gives the Orioles added pitching flexibility,

not only by giving the club another pitcher who can both start and pitch in varied relief roles, but

by adding another pitcher with minor league options.

It can be difficult to carry pitchers who are out of minor league options, and in recent months the

Orioles have concentrated on not just added pitching depth, but optionable pitching depth, by

adding Nuño and right-handers Gabriel Ynoa and Logan Verrett.

In acquiring Nuño, the Orioles designated left-hander T.J. McFarland — who was out of minor

league options — for assignment. If McFarland clears waivers, he would be outrighted to Triple-

A Norfolk and could start the year in the minors without the team risking losing him again.

“We got caught in some tough situations last year where we couldn’t manipulate or maneuver

the way we needed to with the option status, but it’s something Dan [Duquette] and I, we talked

about a lot and it’s something we’ve really been able to improve at,” Orioles manager Buck

Showalter said. “It’s one of the things with the decision with T.J. If you don’t feel it’s a given,

that he’s going to make your club, then you’re sitting there at the end of spring. But we’re hoping

he ends up back with us. We’ll see what the next couple of days bring.”

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bs-sp-orioles-spring-training-0221-20170219-

story.html

Pain-free again, Chris Davis ready to punish baseballs

By Peter Schmuck / The Baltimore Sun

February 20, 2017

It probably says something about the Orioles' stubborn reliance on power that even prodigious

home run hitter Chris Davis conceded recently that there is more to winning than seeing who can

hit a baseball the farthest.

Obviously, the Orioles do that better than anyone, but several years at or near the top of the

major league home run rankings have not translated into the consistent attack that might have

allowed the O's to position themselves better for the playoffs last year.

"That's the thing, we know we can hit the ball out of the yard," Davis said, "but I'd rather see us

do it with one or two runners on, or even three instead of going up there hitting solo shots. I think

a lot of times when you hit a two- or three-run homer it's really deflating to the other team as

opposed to a solo shot."

He's right, of course, and he's not exactly expounding on a groundbreaking theory, but it's one

thing to recognize a problem and another to solve it.

Baseball operations chief Dan Duquette has tried to upgrade the team's on-base potential every

year he has been here. This winter's big addition in that regard was right fielder Seth Smith. Last

year's was Hyun Soo Kim. Perhaps the combination of more playing time for Kim and another

solid left-handed-hitting outfielder will do the trick.

"I think Seth is going to be good for us because he knows how to work the count," Davis said.

"He knows how to get on base."

Davis can only impact his part of the equation which, under optimum circumstances, includes

both a boatload of home runs and one of the team's top on-base percentages. Even under not-so-

optimum circumstances, Davis ranked second on the team last year with 38 homers and second

among full-time starters with a .332 OBP, but it was obvious that he was not himself.

He batted just .221, which was the lowest batting average of any major league first baseman with

enough at-bats to qualify for the official rankings. He led the league with 219 strikeouts. Those

are not the kind of numbers you want to put up in the first year of a club-record, seven-year

mega-deal, but contract pressure had nothing to do with it.

Orioles' Chris Davis said dislocated left thumb impacted 2016 season, but has healed

Davis played with a sore left hand for much of last season, an injury he suffered diving into a

base. He said last week that he knew it was hindering him, but didn't realize how much until he

started swinging the bat pain-free over the winter.

"It was kind of an eye-opener for me because I hadn't realized the impact that it really had on

me," Davis said. "I had almost forgotten what it felt like to be 100 percent and be able to swing

with both hands. It was really a big relief to not have any pain and I'm looking forward to getting

started again."

He is not alone. Manager Buck Showalter also could not have known how much the injury was

impacting Davis' performance, but is quick to point out that Davis was far from an on-base

liability. His power generates walks, which accounts for his solid OBP, even during a 2016

season when it was well-known around the league that he was playing hurt.

"Not once did he ever give in last year," Showalter said. "Sometimes, you get to this late August

point and you kind of see, 'OK I'm not going to be able to salvage this season compared to the

year before statistically,' but he never gave in to that 'woe is me' [attitude].

"I saw him working every day. It wasn't like he was back in the locker room going 'I'm just a

strikeout guy and I'm not having a good year.' A lot of people would have loved to have that year

if you throw away certain parts of it. Interested to see how much the injury had to do with it."

At his best, Davis can hit the ball out of the ballpark in any direction and also defeat the right

field shift by either bunting down the third base line or going the other way with a ball on the

outside part of the plate. But the soreness — at its worst — caused him to come off the bat with

his left hand near the completion of his swing.

The Orioles were in the playoff hunt, so he wasn't about to sit down, though rest really

would have been the best medicine. The offseason proved that.

"Yeah. I think the biggest thing was really the rest and the time off and not having the physical

contact and the beating that I did every day when I was swinging and taking balls at first base,"

he said. "Really, after the first three or four weeks [of the offseason] the swelling went

completely away and I haven't had anything, any issues or swelling since I started hitting. So, I

think the biggest thing is just rest and obviously I didn't have time to rest during the season last

year."

If his recent pattern holds, Davis should be back near the top of the home run rankings in 2017.

He won the major league home run title in 2013 and 2015, but struggled with injuries the

following year each time. Though he is only in the second year of the seven-year, $161 million

contract he signed last January, he still feels a sense of urgency to have a big year and help lead

the Orioles on a deep playoff run.

With several teammates either nearing the end of their contracts or soon to be out from under

club control, there might not be many more opportunities for the nucleus of the club to make a

serious bid for the World Series title.

"You'd be foolish not to realize that or disregard that," he said. "We understand that not

everybody is going to be here their whole career and very few guys play their entire career in one

place. The older I get and the closer these guys get to free agency or whatever it is, the more you

realize that you have a sense of urgency about winning and going to the postseason with this

group of guys. It's a special group of guys and there's nobody — no other group — that I'd rather

do it with."

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-orioles-closing-in-on-trade-to-acquire-left-

hander-vidal-nuno-from-dodgers-20170219-story.html

Orioles acquire left-hander Vidal Nuño in trade with

Dodgers

By Eduardo Encina and Peter Schmuck / The Baltimore Sun

February 19, 2017

The Orioles added another piece to their pitching depth Sunday, acquiring left-handed reliever

Vidal Nuño in a trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Orioles will send minor league right-hander Ryan Moseley, who pitched at Short-A

Aberdeen last season, to the Dodgers in the deal.

To make 40-man roster space for Nuño, the Orioles designated left-hander T.J. McFarland for

assignment.

The addition of the 29-year-old Nuño gives the Orioles a versatile veteran who can pitch both as

a starter and in relief.

"Our scouts like how Vidal Nuño competes in the American League, and old school baseball

people will appreciate how he works fast, throws strikes and changes speeds," Orioles executive

vice president Dan Duquette said in a text message. "We look forward to his contributions to the

2017 club."

Orioles' signing of outfielder Craig Gentry more than just another depth piece

Nuño's likely role with the Orioles will be as a reliever who can offer the team length out of the

bullpen. Orioles manager Buck Showalter said last week that the team could carry a third lefty in

the pen along with closer Zach Britton and situational lefty Donnie Hart on the Opening Day

roster.

The addition of Nuño and the move to designate McFarland keeps the Orioles' spring

training roster at 54 players for now.

The team has 10 days to trade, release or pass McFarland through waivers. However, any team

claiming McFarland off waivers would be responsible for the $685,000 salary he is set to receive

in his first year of arbitration eligibility. McFarland is out of minor league options this year.

The move to add Nuño is the latest by Duquette in recent days to supplement the team’s roster.

The Orioles purchased 23-year-old right-hander Gabriel Ynoa from the New York Mets on Feb.

10 to add pitching depth, and also signed veteran outfielder Craig Gentry, a versatile, defensive-

minded outfielder with speed, to a minor league deal with a spring training invite on Saturday.

Nuño came up with the New York Yankees as a starting pitcher but has mostly worked out of the

bullpen for the past two seasons. Last season, he posted a 3.53 ERA in 58 2/3 innings for

the Seattle Mariners, with all but one of his 55 appearances coming in relief. Fourteen of his 54

relief appearances last year lasted more than one inning.

Over his career, Nuño is 5-20 with a 4.02 ERA over parts of four major league seasons. He owns

a 3.14 career ERA in 100 1/3 innings as a reliever. Over his career, he’s been adept at getting

left-handed hitters out, holding them to a .224 batting average, compared to a .273 average

against right-handed hitters.

Nuño is a proven strike-thrower, as shown by his career 3.18 strikeout-to-walk ratio (he posted

an impressive 4.64 strikeout-to-walk ratio last season with the Mariners). And like Ynoa, he puts

the ball in play, doesn’t miss many bats and makes his defense play behind him. He relies on his

control and changing speeds, primarily leaning on a four-seam fastball that averages 88-89 mph,

a mid-80s slider and a low 80s changeup, though in recent years, he actually used his slider more

than his fastball.

Still, Nuño has struggled to stick with a team. He was traded from Seattle to the Dodgers in

November in exchange for veteran catcher Carlos Ruiz. The Orioles would be Nuño’s fifth team

since 2014.

He will earn $1.125 million this year in his first year of arbitration eligibility. The Orioles have

control of Nuño through the 2019 season. Nuño still has a minor league option available.

Once Nuño arrives in Orioles camp, his time with his new team could be brief. He is still

expected to pitch for Mexico in next month’s World Baseball Classic, so he’d likely leave camp

in the first week of March.

Because the Orioles are scheduled to have four right-hander starters, Showalter would like to

have a left-handed long reliever. McFarland has filled that role over parts of the previous four

seasons.

Moseley was drafted by the Orioles last season in the eighth round out of Texas Tech. The 22-

year-old posted a 3.20 ERA and four saves over 19 2/3 relief innings for Aberdeen in his first

professional season. He was scouted and signed by Orioles scout Nathan Showalter, the son of

the Orioles’ manager.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bs-sp-orioles-notes-0220-20170219-story.html

Orioles notes: Big bats bunting because you never know

when club might need it

By Eduardo Encina / The Baltimore Sun

February 19, 2017

The Orioles are known for their power, so bunting isn't an instrumental part of their game. Still,

during spring training every year, they carve out time to practice the skill.

The Orioles bunted just 24 times last season – that's 0.4 percent of all of their plate appearances

and tied for the third-fewest in baseball. Seventeen of those bunts were sacrifices; seven were

bunt hits.

Bunting is just not a part of the Orioles' identity. So seeing sluggers Mark Trumbo, Chris

Davis, Adam Jones, Manny Machado and Jonathan Schoop – who combined to hit 176 of the

Orioles' majors-leading 253 homers last season – practicing bunting drills on the back fields of

the Ed Smith Stadium complex on Sunday was a rare sight.

"You'd be surprised at how good of bunters they are," Orioles manager Buck Showalter said.

"You just don't [assume]. I asked somebody last year, 'When's the last time you bunted?' and he

said maybe high school because he always hit third or fourth in the lineup. But you'll find that a

lot of them are pretty good at it."

During the drill, Jones, Ryan Flaherty, Hyun Soo Kim and new Orioles outfielder Seth Smith all

drew compliments from coaches Wayne Kirby and Bobby Dickerson for their bunting skills.

"You want to say, 'OK, here is a black-and-white situation where everytime this comes up, you

lead off the inning, you're two runs down and they're shifting on you and you want bunt every

time," Showalter said. "It's hard to do. [You think], 'Here's the situations we really want to think

about it. This is when it should be in your mind – right here – because I can't hit a two-run

homer.' And at some point, when the time in right, you say, 'Hey what were you thinking?'

"Adam [Jones] can really bunt for a hit. He's won a couple games for us since I've been here with

a man on third and two outs. [It's] just to honor it some. But we know how that kind of goes

away.

Though Davis is a power hitter, he has benefited from the occasional bunt. Back in 2015, Davis

dropped bunts down the third base line for base hits twice against the shift.

"Chris can do it," Showalter said. "If you really want to get them out of the shift, it's really not

the bunt to third. It's the firm bunt in the second base slot. That's what would get them out of the

shift on the side where you're going to hit the ball."

Showalter has often said that hitters will make adjustments to the pull shifts defenses employ,

and while the best way to combat them is simply to hit the opposite way, the occasional bunt can

do the same.

Ondrusek injures ankle: Orioles right-handed reliever Logan Ondrusek rolled his right ankle

during pitchers' fielding practice drills on Saturday and is doubtful for his one-inning appearance

in Wednesday's intrasquad game.

Ondrusek, who had his 2017 club option declined in November but then signed a $650,000 deal

with a 2018 club option to remain with the Orioles, said he hoped to get back on the mound by

the end of the week.

"It feels better than it did yesterday," he said Sunday. "Obviously [I am] doing all the stuff to get

it right, but you can't really rush that and change something else and just to kind of jump right

back up there. Hopefully, it's just two days, three days and back on the mound and put all this

behind me and be ready to go."

Ondrusek said the swelling in his ankle had decreased significantly a day after the injury.

"It's a little sore," Ondrusek said. "It's kind of a fluke little thing, trying not to have a collision,

pulling the brakes a little bit and kind of jammed the heel into the ground and little bit of

swelling and stuff in the ankle. Until that stuff goes away, and you feel comfortable off the

mound and throwing, I've kind of got to take a step back, which is unfortunate but at least it's

early in camp and not at the end."

Ondrusek joined the Orioles last July out of Japan, mostly because of his ability to get out left-

handed hitters. But he struggled in his brief stint with the Orioles, allowing eight of 13 left-

handed hitters he faced to reach base. He posted a 9.95 ERA in 6 1/3 innings.

Ondrusek indicated that he likely would have pitched through the injury if it occurred during a

more critical time of the year, but since it is early in the spring both he and the team want to be

cautious.

Santander still healing from surgery: Rule 5 outfielder Anthony Santander, who had offseason

surgery on his right shoulder, could be limited in early games this spring. Showalter said he's

considering allowing the switch-hitter to only bat from the right-side – specifically as a DH

against left-handed pitching – because Santander is still feeling discomfort swinging from the

left side of the plate.

The Orioles selected Santander in the Rule 5 draft from the Cleveland Indians back in December.

"Until we got him and got our arms around him, we didn't know exactly [how healthy he was],"

Showalter said. "… We had an idea what we were dealing with, but until you get him in front of

you … I'd say he's about where we hoped he was. He's not behind. He's going to be a player here

before this camp is over, for sure. I might DH him in the intrasquad games. I was trying to

decide. I don't want him hitting right-handed against right-handed pitchers, though."

Around the horn: Showalter said LHP T.J. McFarland was dealing with shoulder soreness

Saturday but was fine on Sunday. … Showalter said C Welington Castillo is a candidate for DH

at-bats against left-handed pitching. … Trumbo and David Washington are both taking reps at

first base and the outfield, but the Orioles have no current plans for testing 1B Trey Mancini in

the outfield this spring. … IF Robert Andino was away from the team Sunday to address a family

matter. … Both intrasquad games this week – on Tuesday and Wednesday morning at 9:30 a.m.

– are scheduled to be played on the Ed Smith Stadium main field. They will not be open to the

public.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-orioles-signing-of-outfielder-craig-gentry-

more-than-just-another-depth-piece-20170218-story.html

Orioles' signing of outfielder Craig Gentry more than just

another depth piece

Eduardo Encina / The Baltimore Sun

February 19, 2017

The Orioles were looking to improve their outfield defense while adding a player who could help

their speed, and new acquisition Craig Gentry fits that need. But it also added another piece to

what’s becoming a very crowded outfield mix this spring training.

The addition of Gentry, who signed a minor league deal with a major league spring training

invitation Saturday, gives the Orioles 12 outfielders in camp.

But Gentry’s skill set – his ability to play plus defense, add speed on the bases and play all three

outfield positions -- allows him to immediately move up the Orioles’ outfield depth chart. Make

no mistake -- Gentry is not merely a depth piece. He has a legitimate shot to make the Orioles’

Opening Day roster.

And he’s not necessarily competing with Rule 5 picks Aneury Tavarez and Anthony

Santander, who have to be carried on the active roster through the season to fulfill their Rule 5

requirements and remain in the organization. The Orioles have been extremely creative in

carrying their Rule 5 picks over recent years, and three off days in the first eight days of the

season could allow the Orioles to give one or both players an extended look into the season.

But the player most threatened by Gentry’s addition is outfielder Joey Rickard, who has a minor

league option after fulfilling Rule 5 requirements last season. They both offer the same skills as

right-handed-hitting outfielders. But in fact, Gentry’s extended track record of success against

left-handed pitching might actually put him ahead of Rickard on the depth chart right now.

Orioles add another outfield option, signing Craig Gentry to a minor league deal

“You kind of stop your conversation there,” Orioles manager Buck Showalter said. “That’s why

Gentry is here. And you know, [executive vice president] Dan [Duquette] has got some other

irons in the fire out there that we’ll see [what happens]. This is a little different spring, but

you’ve got to be ready to adjust. Someone might show up four or five days from now, especially

with these chairs. There’s a lot of good players out there now.”

Gentry is a .268/.350/.357 hitter in 582 career plate appearances against left-handed pitching.

Rickard saw great success against lefties in a smaller sample size last season as a rookie, hitting

.313/.367/.494 in 90 plate appearances.

Pitchers and catchers reported for duty on Monday, Feb. 13, 2017. The Orioles begin the 2017

season at home against the Toronto Blue Jays on April 3.

After watching Gentry's first workout of spring training, Showalter was quick to compliment

what he saw.

"I think the evaluation of Craig won't take that long," Showalter said. "I could see him moving

around the outfield today and the infield in the drills. That part of it kind of sticks out. He can

really defend."

You might be able to consider this the first camp battle to emerge from the first week of spring

training.

The biggest question with Gentry might be his health. When he has been able to stay on the field,

he has been productive. But a series of injuries have prevented that in recent years. But if he can

stay healthy, the Orioles might have their latest diamond in the rough.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216503332/dan-duquette-expects-great-season-from-

orioles/

Duquette proud of O's, has high expectations

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 20, 2017

SARASOTA -- With Presidents Day and the start of Spring Training so close together,

MLB.com decided to take a look at the state of the Orioles in 2017. And who better for that than

executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette?

Duquette, a two-time Sporting News Executive of the Year -- including in 2014 with the Orioles

-- has been with Baltimore since November 2011.

Here are Duquette's three main messages to Orioles fans going into the 2017 season.

"We are looking forward to another good season at Camden Yards. We've had a competitive

team for the last five that has won more games than any other team in the American League,

which we are very proud of, and we aim to do the same thing again this year."

"Camden Yards is a great place to come out and see a game, and the Orioles every year strive to

find the sweet spot to have affordable family entertainment, which means a good ballclub for you

and a nice place to come out and enjoy the game."

"We're returning a lot of the same star players that Oriole fans like in 2017. Come out and

see Manny Machado, J.J. Hardy, Chris Davis, Zach Britton. We got Mark Trumbo back. And

when you come out to Camden Yards, you'll see some home runs because we lead the AL with

the home-run leader the past four years, and hopefully we'll have another one this year."

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216560020/orioles-michael-bourn-agree-to-one-year-deal/

Bourn gets one-year deal, invite to spring camp

By Joe Trezza / MLB.com

February 20th, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. -- The Orioles are bringing back Michael Bourn, signing the veteran outfielder

to a one-year Minor League deal with an invitation to big league camp on Monday night.

The deal, worth a reported $2 million if Bourn makes the team, gives the O's another outfield

option along with a much-needed speedster and defense-first player.

"Michael Bourn's all-around play helped the club earn a 2016 playoff spot, and the O's are glad

to have him back for '17," said Dan Duquette, executive vice president of baseball operations.

The 34-year-old Bourn experienced a resurgence of sorts after being acquired by Baltimore in

September 2016, hitting .283/.358/.435 in 24 games. Brought in to serve mostly as a fourth

outfielder, Bourn wound up playing all three positions and started 10 games down the stretch. He

batted leadoff in the American League Wild Card Game.

Bourn hit .264/.314/.371 with five home runs, 38 RBIs and 15 stolen bases in 113 games last

season between the Orioles and D-backs. He earned two All-Star selections and two Gold Gloves

earlier in his career as a member of the Astros.

Bourn joins Chris Dickerson, Craig Gentry, Logan Schafer and David Washington as other non-

roster outfielders and is the club's third addition this week (following Gentry and Chris

Johnson). Joey Rickard, who played well in a bench role as a rookie last season, is also in an

outfield mix that includes Adam Jones, Seth Smith and Hyun Soo Kim.

Bourn is a career .266/.329/.357 hitter with 341 stolen bases over 11 seasons.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216512668/robert-andino-excited-about-returning-to-os/

Andino excited about second chance with O's

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 20, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. -- Robert Andino had always kept it in the back of his mind the possibility of

returning to the city that -- outside of his hometown in Miami -- still holds a special place in his

heart: Baltimore.

"You never know in this game," said Andino, who signed a Minor League deal earlier this month

and is trying to make the club as a reserve. "It's real exciting, and it's a blessing to be back. It

took long enough, but I'm just happy to be back."

The last time Andino, 32, was with Baltimore, was 2009-'12, and third baseman Manny

Machado was just making his debut. Machado said Andino was one of the guys who took him

under his wing when he was a new player.

Andino said he joked with Machado about the All Star's glove.

"[I said] 'Look at you,' he used to use a Rawlings. [I said] 'You've got to use a Wilson [glove].

You've got a platinum glove now,'" Andino said of Machado. "He's the man, now. I've just got to

get back into it and try and fit in the game, you know what I'm saying? This is their team. I'm just

here to try and help them win a championship."

Andino, who played in just 13 Major League games last season with the Marlins, figures to play

a lot this spring with Machado and second baseman Jonathan Schoop headed to the World

Baseball Classic. That's fine with the versatile Andino, who said he told manager Buck

Showalter that he will literally play anywhere.

"Put me in the outfield," Andino said. "I'm going to see if I can steal somebody's first baseman's

mitt somewhere. Just whatever I've got to do, try to play in October, that's what it's all about.

Whatever I've got to do to help the team win, I'm here."

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216481408/orioles-2017-preseason-top-30-prospects-list/

Breaking down the Orioles' Top 30 Prospects

By Mike Rosenbaum / MLB.com

February 20th, 2017

It was another successful year for the Orioles, who rattled off 89 wins, good for fourth in the

American League, to reach the postseason for the third time in five years. But they were unable

to advance past the Blue Jays in the AL Wild Card Game, as Edwin Encarnacion hit a dramatic

walk-off home run off of Ubaldo Jimenez in the 11th inning to seal the Orioles' fate. But while

the playoff loss may have been difficult to swallow for fans, how the Orioles got there offers

plenty of optimism for the future.

After three injury-plagued seasons, Dylan Bundy emerged as a key part of the Orioles' rotation

after beginning the season in the bullpen. Though he did wear down late in the year, Bundy

showed the promise that had made him the No. 4 overall Draft pick in 2011, as well as the

organization's top prospect in subsequent years.

Bundy wasn't the only Orioles prospect to make an impact in the big leagues. Outfielder and

Rule 5 pick Joey Rickard performed admirably early in the year until a right thumb injury

prematurely ended his season in July. Right-hander Mychal Givens was a consistent late-inning

force out of the bullpen all year, while lefty reliever Donnie Hart posted a 0.49 ERA and .194

opponents average after making the jump to the Majors in July. Trey Mancini didn't debut until

Sept. 20, but he quickly made his presence felt as he became the third player in history to homer

in his first three starts.

With 12 of their Top 30 prospects expected to arrive at some point in 2017, the Orioles should

continue receive an influx of talent in the Majors. Catcher Chance Sisco added to his impressive

Minor League resume by hitting .317 between the Double- and Triple-A levels as a 21-year-old,

giving him a .323 career average. He enters 2017 ranked as the club's top prospect, and could get

his first taste of the Majors in the wake of Matt Wieters' departure via free agency. Mancini

could also make an impact, though the presence of Chris Davis will likely limit him to a platoon

role.

Meanwhile, the Orioles used the 2016 Draft to restock their system with potential impact talent,

selecting college hurlers Cody Sedlock, Keegan Akin and Matthias Dietz with their first three

picks, and then adding toolsy outfielder Austin Hays in the fourth round

Biggest jump/fall

Here are the players whose ranks changed the most from the 2016 preseason list to the 2017

preseason list.

Jump: Garrett Cleavinger, LHP (2016: 27 | 2017: 14)

Fall: D.J. Stewart, OF (2016: 7 | 2017: 26)

Best tools Players are graded on a 20-80 scouting scale for future tools -- 20-30 is well below average, 40

is below average, 50 is average, 60 is above average and 70-80 is well above average.

Hit: Chance Sisco (60)

Power: Trey Mancini and Anthony Santander (55)

Run: Cedric Mullins (60)

Arm: Austin Hays and Jomar Reyes (60)

Defense: Aneury Tavarez (55)

Fastball: Tanner Scott (80)

Curveball: Hunter Harvey (60)

Slider: Cody Sedlock (55)

Changeup: Parker Bridwell (60)

Control: Gabriel Ynoa (60)

How they were built Draft: 20

International: 4

Trade: 3

Free agent: 1

Rule 5: 2

Breakdown by ETA 2017: 12

2018: 7

2019: 8

2020: 2

2021: 1

Breakdown by position C: 1

1B: 1

2B: 0

3B: 1

SS: 2

OF: 6

RHP: 10

LHP: 9

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216468206/orioles-land-vidal-nuno-from-dodgers/

Orioles add lefty Nuno in trade with Dodgers

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 19th, 2017

SARASOTA -- The Orioles added to their pitching depth on Sunday night, trading for left-

hander Vidal Nuno from the Dodgers in exchange for Minor League right-hander Ryan Moseley.

The move, which saw the O's designate lefty T.J. McFarland for assignment to open up a 40-man

roster spot, gives Baltimore another potential starting or relief option. Nuno, 29, went 1-1 with a

3.53 ERA and a 4.64 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 55 games, including one start, with the Mariners

last season.

"Our scouts like how Vidal Nuno competes in the American League and old school baseball

people will appreciate how he works fast, throws strikes and changes speeds," Orioles executive

vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette said. "We look forward to his contributions

to the 2017 club."

The Mariners traded Nuno to the Dodgers in November for catcher Carlos Ruiz.

Nuno has a career 4.02 ERA in 126 career Major League games (42 starts) with the Mariners, D-

backs and Yankees. His role with the Orioles right now looks to be as a potential long reliever,

though he does add some starting depth for a primarily right-handed rotation.

Orioles manager Buck Showalter referenced last week that the club could have closer Zach

Britton, situational lefty Donnie Hart and another lefty in its bullpen.

Moseley, 22, went 0-1 with a 3.20 ERA in 12 games with Class A Aberdeen last season.

The 27-year-old McFarland went 2-2 with a 6.93 ERA in 16 games with the Orioles last season.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216468206/orioles-land-vidal-nuno-from-dodgers/

Kim on 2017: 'Less pressure, more fun'

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 19th, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. -- Hyun Soo Kim sat quietly by his locker on Sunday morning. The Orioles'

outfielder -- whose very presence last spring was a noteworthy event -- is enjoying being out of

the limelight and being just another guy at the O's full-squad practice.

"I don't want to go back," Kim joked, in perfect English, of where things were this past year.

And who can blame him? After going 0-for-23 to start Spring Training in 2016, the much-

maligned outfielder -- who refused to accept an assignment to start the year in the Minor Leagues

-- went from hearing scattered boos at Camden Yards to becoming a solid contributor and fan

favorite.

Kim's game-winning, pinch-hit homer in late September in Toronto was one of the O's biggest

hits of the year, and he posted a .302/.382/.420 line in 95 games his first year in the Major

Leagues.

"It feels like last year, I wanted to show more," Kim said through his new interpreter. "Without

even knowing it, I was pressuring [myself]. This year, less pressure and more fun."

And a lot less to worry about.

"[There are] a lot of things that we knew were going to be a challenge for him, that he overcame

that aren't this year," Orioles manager Buck Showalter said of Kim, who told him Sunday he

wanted to play in both of the team's intrasquad games later this week. "I think it bodes well for

his potential. I think he's got another level he can go to."

Kim, who arrived early to Sarasota last year to get in shape with vice president of baseball

operations Brady Anderson, said he's in much better shape than a year ago. And, while his

transition from the Korean Baseball League was tough enough, he also didn't get to work out as

much as he would have liked, as he got married that winter.

"This year it's all about playing baseball," Kim said. "I worked out every day, as opposed to last

year when I wasn't able to work out as much.

"I've learned the American method of training and workouts. They chose quality over quantity.

They don't have to work hours, hundreds of thousands of balls that I would have to hit [in the

past]. Rather, my body remembers what I have to do in a short amount of training time. I've

learned to be more efficient [with my daily workouts]."

Kim is also hoping to be more productive against lefties and play himself into more of an

everyday role. Showalter said the club will find or create games to get Kim a lot of spring at-bats

against lefties, and the outfielder is embracing improving that part of his game.

"I want to be an everyday player," Kim said. "Through a lot of training with [hitting coach] Scott

Coolbaugh, I'm able to see lefties and hit off them [in practice]. I'll try to become an everyday

player who is able to do what the club asks me to do."

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216460710/manny-machado-hopes-to-return-to-shortstop/

Manny hopeful for eventual return to shortstop

By Anthony Castrovince / MLB.com

February 19th, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. -- Manny Machado's World Baseball Classic positioning outlook is a lot like

his long-term positioning outlook. Third base? Shortstop? We don't know where Machado will

play for certain.

But what can be said for certain is that one of the game's great hot-corner defenders is still

interested in a full-time return to his native position -- not just in the Classic, but in the Majors.

And that's something to keep in mind as Machado's post-2018 free-agent eligibility looms.

"I'm looking forward to going back to short, if I do go back," Machado said Sunday at Orioles

camp. "I hope, I hope."

Machado's position with the Dominican Republic squad is up in the air because of Adrian

Beltre's left calf strain last week. If Beltre recovers in time for the start of the tournament,

Machado will man shortstop as originally planned. If not, he'll likely fill in at third.

On the O's, Machado is already accustomed to another player dictating whether or not he plays

short. He came up to the big leagues in 2012 and deferred to J.J. Hardy, making an emergency

shift to third and, with amazing rapidity, proving himself elite. In his first full season in 2013,

Machado not only won the Gold Glove Award among American League third basemen, but also

the Platinum Glove, the award given to the player voted by fans as the best defender at any

position in his league.

Looking back, Machado says the move to third -- a position he had played for just 18 innings in

the Minor Leagues -- was best for him.

"I wasn't ready to play shortstop back then," Machado said. "I really didn't have what it took to

play short. I was [making] a lot of dumb errors. I didn't have the feel of the game. When I came

up to the big leagues and moved to third, my game transformed night and day. I went from

making dumb throwing errors and dumb plays on routine balls to winning a Gold Glove."

So why mess with a good thing?

As Machado said, the past few years he's been "paid to drop bombs and play third" -- and to say

he's done it well is an understatement. Machado has been a top-five AL Most Valuable Player

Award finisher each of the past two seasons, and the feeling here is that he hasn't scratched his

ceiling. Around the Major League Baseball, teams are arranging their budgets and licking their

lips with the thought of Machado -- much like Bryce Harper -- hitting the open market after

2018, in advance of his age-26 season.

But the shortstop slot has its own allure, an innate appeal to all who play it. And when a Hardy

injury created the opportunity for Machado to start at shortstop 43 times last season, he got that

itch again.

"Playing there last year was awesome, a fun experience," Machado said. "It was something I had

always dreamed about, playing shortstop in the big leagues. I proved to myself I can still play

that position and do that."

Machado also learned some things that he's now applying to his spring preparation.

Small sample/arbitrary endpoint alert, but while filling in for Hardy for about a month and a half,

Machado had a .947 OPS in his first four weeks at short last season and an .869 mark in his last

three-plus.

"It was good for him to understand the challenges," manager Buck Showalter said. "There's more

wear and tear over there. It's a very demanding position. Not that third base isn't. But shortstop, if

you play it right, is a very taxing position. So could he go play it? I don't have any doubt he

could. But it's going to be a grind on him."

Though Machado's offensive performance did decline ever-so-slightly as his time at short wore

on, he did prove himself a defensive asset at the more demanding position. His UZR/150 innings

ranked a respectable 14th among those with at least 350 innings at the position, and he was a

positive (plus-three) at the Defensive Runs Saved scale.

Not bad for a guy whose only experience at short in the preceding three-plus seasons was a

handful of games and the occasional batting-practice ground ball.

Of course, this does beg the question of whether the juice is worth the squeeze. Why put

Machado, with his elite offensive and defensive skill set, at a position that might strain his bat

and might lower his standing from truly elite defender to merely a very good one?

That's a question that will have to be addressed some other time, because Hardy is still under the

Orioles' contractual control through 2018. But it could be a question worth considering if

Machado forces the issue in his free agency.

Though a full-time move back to short would be unusual in an industry in which players of

Machado's size and skill set usually mature out of the shortstop position, Machado's own path as

an elite prospect impeded at his position by a valuable veteran is a circumstantial one.

"I got kicked out of short," Machado said with a laugh.

Playing with Hardy, though, has taught Machado plenty about what it takes to play the position.

Hardy's attention to detail makes him the perfect shortstop for Showalter and the perfect mentor

for Machado.

"That's the definition of shortstop," Machado said. "If you have the work ethic that he has and

you see how he goes about his business every day, how he works out, how he touches the

ground, the routine he has every day, that's how you're going to get better. That's what you have

to do. If you want to be the best, you have to work."

Orioles third baseman Manny Machado is named a Gold Glove Award winner for the second

time in his career

Machado is maturing, both as a player and a person. His growth even in interview interactions

this spring is striking. And the O's love the way Machado adapted on the fly -- once again --

when a position need presented itself last season.

"Him going to shortstop might have hurt him in the Gold Glove voting for third base," executive

vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette said. "Clearly he's the best third baseman,

based on the defensive numbers [Machado had two fewer Defensive Runs Saved than Gold

Glove winner Adrian Beltre, but in 221 fewer innings at the position]. So he made a personal

sacrifice for the good of the team. The great Oriole third baseman Brooks Robinson got Gold

Gloves for 16 consecutive years. Manny's numbers are of that caliber, but, because he went to

shortstop to help the team fill in for injury, he didn't win [the 2016 honor]."

Whether Machado will ever get the opportunity to try to win one as a shortstop remains to be

seen. But he hopes to get the opportunity one day -- and not just in the WBC.

"I'm not complaining," Machado said. "I am who I am because of third base. I haven't done

enough at short to say otherwise. But I know I can do it over there at that position, as well."

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216458922/intrasquad-games-uncertain-for-logan-

ondrusek/

Ondrusek questionable for intrasquad games

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 19th, 2017

SARASOTA -- Orioles reliever Logan Ondrusek rolled his right ankle on Saturday and is

doubtful for the team's intrasquad games later this week.

Ondrusek said he tried to stop quickly while doing one of the team's drills during the first full-

squad workout, which involves the pitchers playing positions, and he jammed his ankle.

"Until that [swelling] goes away and I feel comfortable off the mound and throwing, got to kinda

take a step back," Ondrusek said. "Which is unfortunate, but at least it's early on in camp and not

right at the end."

The 32-year-old Ondrusek joined the O's in July from Japan, and he is competing for one of the

final bullpen spots. He's hoping this injury doesn't sideline him long, and that he'll back out later

this week.

"Thats what I'm hoping," Ondrusek said. "It feels better than it did yesterday. … Hopefully it's

just two days, three days and back on the mound and put all this behind me and be ready to go."

Ondrusek appeared in seven games for the Orioles this past year, and he allowed seven earned

runs on nine hits, striking out four and walking three. The O's declined a club option earlier in

the offseason before signing him to a one-year, $625,000 deal with a 2018 option this winter.

• Orioles manager Buck Showalter said left-hander T.J. McFarland had some shoulder soreness

Saturday, but he was reported to be better on Sunday.

• The O's have just 54 players in camp, which is the fewest in the Majors.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216441848/seth-smith-looking-forward-to-hitting-with-os/

Smith in awe of O's bat strength

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 19th, 2017

SARASOTA -- Orioles outfielder Seth Smith said earlier this week he's looking forward to being

a part of Baltimore's powerful lineup.

"It is fun," said Smith, who was acquired from Seattle in the offseason trade that sentYovani

Gallardo to the Mariners. "I've enjoy watching the Orioles kind of do their thing for a while now,

and to be a part of it is going to be fun."

Adding Smith should give the Orioles a better on-base component when he's in the lineup, with

the 34-year-old posting a .342 on-base percentage in 438 plate appearances this past season.

Smith also has some pop, homering in four consecutive games against the O's in 2016 and

totaling 12 of his 16 homers at pitcher-friendly Safeco Field.

"At this point, I am the kind of player that I am," Smith said. That's what I'm going to try to bring

every day and do the best I can, and if that's getting on base, great. If I can hit a couple homers

like the rest of the guys, that would be good, too."

New Orioles pitcher Gabriel Ynoa, one of several slated to pitch in Tuesday's first intrasquad

game, is hoping to make a good first impression in camp.

Ynoa, who was traded from the Mets right before Spring Training started, made his debut with

New York last season and had a 6.38 ERA in 10 appearances (three starts). He struck out 17

batters and walked seven with 26 hits allowed.

"I learned how to pitch better," Ynoa said through interpreter Ramon Alarcon of his 2016 season.

"Hopefully I'll continue to learn that over here with the pitching coaches, their teachings. I'm also

trying to get quick outs. I see something that's an area I can improve upon."

Ynoa said he's already meshed well with his new organization, and he knows that to stick as a

Major League pitcher, he has to improve his breaking ball. Still, the O's like the potential upside

of the 23-year-old hurler.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216383730/manny-machado-focused-on-present-not-

future/

Machado focused on present, not future

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 18th, 2017

SARASOTA -- Orioles third baseman Manny Machado looked around the clubhouse on

Saturday morning and smiled.

"We got a couple different faces, but I think we got a real good group here," he said. "A special

group that's going to surprise a lot of people."

Machado, who will be a free agent after the 2018 season, is one of several Orioles who could be

nearing the end of their time in Baltimore. He's gearing up for an unusual spring, in which he'll

play a handful of games at shortstop early before leaving to play for the Dominican Republic in

the World Baseball Classic. He's excited to represent his country, to play in front of his family.

But mostly, the 24-year-old Machado is excited for this Orioles team, which was eliminated by

Toronto in last year's American League Wild Card Game, to pick up right where it left off.

"I'm excited for this year, I'm excited for this team," Machado said. "I think we have a really

good group of guys that are going to impress a lot of guys and impress a lot of people out there.

I'm looking forward to the season a lot."

Outlook: Machado, 3B, BAL

Manny Machado was great at two positions last year, set career marks in homers (37) and

average (.294), and at just 24, he may still improve

Machado, who reiterated Saturday that there has been no talk between his camp and the Orioles

about a contract extension, doesn't want to continue to be asked about his future. He says he's not

worried about it and is trying to focus on enjoying this moment, this team and this season.

"Everyone wants to be the last team standing, and you know, it's something I think we're getting

closer and closer to. I think we have a taste of what it feels like to win and what it takes to get

there," Machado said.

"I want to say we have the best group of guys in there to try to make that push. It's not always

about the big team or the aces and the horses and the million-dollar contracts you bring in guys

[on]. It's about, 'Who are the 25 guys in this clubhouse who are going to go out there and grind

every day?' I see it as who do you want to look to your side and know he's going to have your

back no matter what and know he's going to grind. ... So much more of that goes into winning

than just having the big knockers or those aces on the mound. Obviously that helps a little bit,

but when you put good people around you and people that want it more than anyone else, it

counts a lot more."

Machado will leave camp on March 5, and he has already laid out his early Grapefruit League

schedule with Orioles manager Buck Showalter. He said he'll probably play in six or seven of the

team's first 11 games and isn't worried about being fatigued for the 162-game season.

"You also don't want to go in and play too many games early on [in the spring] and get tired. I

know we're going to play quite a few games in the Classic," Machado said. "You don't want to

play too many games as well because I don't want to get fatigued for the year. There are a lot of

things Buck sees where later on you kind of sit back and realize why he does it, so I kind of put a

perspective on that as well."

Machado expects to play some shortstop and some third base for the Dominican Republic's team,

and could be gone for up to three weeks. He's one of five players on the O's 40-man roster who

will be participating in the WBC, along with catcher Welington Castillo (also playing for the

Dominican Republic), Jonathan Schoop (Netherlands) and Adam Jones and Mychal

Givens (USA).

"People take a lot of pride in [representing their country]. I know I am, and I know my family's

going to be excited to see where I'm at at this stage and see me representing the country that they

were born and raised in," Machado said. "I'm excited for it. Hopefully, this continues. I know I'm

going to love it. That's what everybody says. They love it when they go in there."

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216384134/orioles-adam-jones-here-to-win/

Jones succinct on motivation: 'I'm here to win'

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 18th, 2017

SARASOTA -- Adam Jones took the field on Friday for the team's first full-squad practice and

jogged all the way back to the warning track, a cheeky ode to the headlines earlier in the week

after executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette noted that perhaps Jones --

who had been critical of the team's defensive outfield upgrades -- could help the defense by

playing deeper.

Jones said Saturday morning that his trip out to deep center field wasn't really a message to

anyone and, when asked if he had a reaction to Duquette's comments, simply said: "We're all

entitled to an opinion, correct?"

Sure, but does Jones plan to change anything in terms of his positioning this year?

"We shall see. I might be up in that center field section up there having a few pops during the

game, if that's where they want me to play," he said. "But at the end of the day, I'm going to do

what I do and that's just how it works."

Jones has always been candid in his 10 years with the club, and he doesn't figure to change now.

He was vocal at last month's FanFest about the team needing to get more athletic outfielders for

the corner spots, disagreeing with Duquette's stance that the current personnel could improve by

working on some things.

"What's too honest, telling the truth? I think that shows that I care," Jones said. "I'm here for one

reason. I'm not here to be friends with anybody. I'm here to win, and at the end of the day I think

that's what we're all here for."

Jones, who will leave camp in early March for the World Baseball Classic, said he hasn't made

any adjustments to his offseason program. He will play in games early on and hope to get as

many at-bats in the Grapefruit League as he can before he leaves.

"I just think it's a matter of being smart with my body and not trying to overdo it," Jones said.

"The WBC's important, very important, but the most important thing is playing for the Orioles

and playing from April to hopefully October. I understand that's most important, but I'm going to

go out there and give my all for Team USA because it is very, very important for me to go out

there and represent my family."

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216384374/scans-on-jj-hardys-back-come-back-negative/

Scans of Hardy's back negative

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 18th, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. -- The Orioles got good news on Saturday, as J.J. Hardy's bone scan test came

back negative, keeping the shortstop in line to resume baseball activities March 4 or 5.

"You can tell just being around him he's pretty upbeat about it," Orioles manager Buck

Showalter said of Hardy, who has been sidelined with back spasms the past three weeks. "I think

we talked about dates yesterday. I expect him to be playing [in games], if we don't have any

setbacks, March 10."

Hardy, who has been plagued by this injury previously, also had an MRI and CT scan, as the

team wanted to be sure the spasms weren't an indicator of a more serious issue.

"The thing we were worried about were tears," Showalter said. "There's nothing there … just got

to calm down the irritation."

Hardy has started a round of anti-inflammatory medication and will just rest for now to let the

area calm down.

"It was weird yesterday having him not on the field yesterday. I've come into Spring Training

six, seven years now, and it was kind of awkward not having him out there. I know he wants to

be out there badly," Orioles third baseman Manny Machado said.

"J.J. is a hard worker, he takes the time off he needs, and he listens to the trainers and people

around him to get right. I've been around him for years now. If it's 15 days he's got to be off the

field, he's going to be back on the 16th day. He's a grinder. He's going to grind through

everything as much as possible to be ready for Opening Day. If it's nothing serious, I guarantee

he'll be there on Opening Day."

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/216390510/craig-gentry-signs-minors-deal-with-orioles/

Orioles sign Gentry to Minors deal

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 18th, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. -- The Orioles signed outfielder Craig Gentry to a Minor League contract with

an invitation to big league camp on Saturday morning, a move that could help boost their defense

and gives them another potential backup option in center field.

"He's a guy who, for a couple years, was considered probably one of the premier fourth

outfielders. Plus runner. Plus defender. Wore out left-hand pitching. Last two years [have been

harder], because of some injuries, some of it concussion stuff," Orioles manager Buck Showalter

said of Gentry, who works out with Baltimore hitting coach Scott Coolbaugh every winter.

"[Coolbaugh] had called me and said that he would not have recommended it the last year or two

when he was working out," Showalter said. "He said this year we might get lucky here, because

if he can revert back to that form, the guy can play all three [outfield positions] above average,

[be an] above-average runner. You look at his stolen-base percentage and totals ... the last two

years have been a real challenge for him."

Gentry, who joined Saturday's full-squad workout at Ed Smith Stadium, hit .147 in 14 games

with the Angels last season and was released in early August. The 33-year-old said the deal with

the O's came together over the past week, and he was glad it did. He's expected to compete for a

bench spot in camp.

"I feel like my speed and defense can pretty much help a lot of teams. Plus, I knew a lot of guys

here," said Gentry, who was in Orioles first baseman Chris Davis' wedding. "I've played with a

lot of guys, I know a lot of the coaching staff, so it just seemed like a great fit. They were

interested, and that late in the offseason you're kind of scrambling around. They were interested,

and I thought it would be a great opportunity."

Gentry owns a career .261 average over 457 games from 2009-16, and he said that from a

physical standpoint, he's finally healthy. Despite a crowded outfield, Gentry should get plenty of

playing time this spring, with a pair of intrasquad games and center fielder Adam Jones headed

to the World Baseball Classic.

"It's real tough [dealing with a bunch of injuries]. Coming off two years, especially when you're

getting up in your 30s, you don't know what the future holds," Gentry said. "So I'm just excited

to get an opportunity here. I didn't know if there was going to be one, but I'm really glad they

took a chance on me."

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/hardy-says-his-back-is-feeling-much-

better.html

Hardy says his back is “feeling much better”

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 21, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. - The schedule and expectations for shortstop J.J. Hardy haven’t changed over

the past few days. His back hasn’t put up any roadblocks.

Hardy remains confident that he can start playing in exhibition games on March 10, the target

date set after he underwent three tests to determine the cause of his spasms and eliminate the

most serious possibilities.

“I’d say everything’s kind of as planned, like what we talked about,” Hardy said this morning

while sitting at his locker. “We got the tests back and it was all good news. Having the extra time

in spring training, I think we’re going to take it slow so we can avoid what happened in 2014

where I kind of dealt with it the whole year.”

Hardy will be brought along in a cautious manner while other infielders amp up their workouts

each day and prepare for games.

“The thing is, this Thursday will be four weeks from when this first occurred and I haven’t

thrown a baseball since it’s happened, I haven’t swung a bat since it’s happened, I haven’t done

any baseball activities since it’s happened,” Hardy said. “So, everything that I had done up until

that point is probably washed out. I was playing catch and everything was going good, but four

weeks of not doing anything is probably washed out. I’ll need to build up some baseball strength

before I do all that stuff.

“What’s today, the 21st? Feeling much better than I have every day since I got on this dose pack.

I’ve been feeling better every single day and I guess everything looks like that schedule is pretty

realistic. It would be nice to be able to get in there around the 10th and not feel like I have to

play every single game in order to be ready.

“I think it will be similar to what all these guys have done for the first four days. I don’t know

how much of bunt defense and first and third and rundowns, all that stuff I need to do, but I do

need to get all my repetitions, my ground balls. I need to get my arm strength up to throw and

then obviously there’s a building up program for hitting.

“I’m not going to go out there and hit on the field the first day. Probably start with some dry

swings and see how that feels and hit some balls off the tee, maybe work up to some flips.

Maybe some overhand in the cage and then work my way out to the field and probably stand in

on some bullpens and stuff like that. But if everything continues going good with my back, I

don’t see why (March 10) is not very realistic.”

Hardy began to worry after the Orioles scheduled a third test on his back, a bone scan that

followed his MRI and CT scan. But it was done as a precaution.

“I think they just wanted to eliminate everything and see if there was big changes from the MRI

in 2014, which I’m glad to say there wasn’t,” he said. “But apparently just getting older, it takes

longer. Maybe that’s it, because the only difference from what I’m feeling now and what I felt

every other year this has happened is just that it’s taking longer. I mean, that’s it.

“I feel like once I get back to the point I always do, it shouldn’t be an issue again. But I don’t

want to rush it because I rushed it in ‘14 and I dealt with little stuff the whole year.”

Hardy felt his back grab the day before heading to Baltimore for FanFest. He lives in Arizona

and had to take a cross-country flight that left him in such discomfort that he couldn’t sit still. He

stood a couple of times, which drew curious stares from passengers. Hardy also was careful

during FanFest, rising slowly from his chair after signing autographs and participating in a

forum, leaning on one foot while talking to the media - hoping no one would notice - and

lowering himself with his knees to high-five kids.

“I think that’s one of the main reasons that this has lasted longer than it normally does, because

of sitting on a plane for 4 ½ hours and then coming back,” he said.

“The ride back was worse for me than the ride there for some reason. The day after was going to

Baltimore and then the day at FanFest Saturday wasn’t terrible, but then coming back, I was so

uncomfortable on the plane. I’m sure the guy sitting next to me was like, ‘What the heck’s wrong

with this guy?’ Because I’m just trying to get comfortable. But it’s all the same stuff. It’s all the

same stuff that I’ve dealt with before and it’s just taking a little longer this time.”

Hardy also had been chasing around his 16-month-old son at home, constantly bending forward

to pick him up or redirect him. He couldn’t just recline in a chair for a few days to let the

muscles relax.

Hardy has eliminated that activity in camp. Now, he’s eager to resume the ones related to

baseball.

Meanwhile, outfielder Michael Bourn hasn’t arrived in camp after agreeing to a minor league

deal yesterday with a spring invite. Pitcher Vidal Nuno, assigned uniform No. 52, will be here on

Wednesday.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/joseph-offers-scouting-report-on-

liranzo.html

Joseph offers scouting report on Liranzo

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 21, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. - Caleb Joseph raised his mitt during a recent bullpen session, awaiting the

pitch from 21-year-old Jesús Liranzo, never expecting it to arrive so quickly.

The ball almost startled Joseph, who was catching Liranzo for the first time. It definitely

impressed him.

“I’m not going to say his windup lulls you to sleep. I don’t want to say that. But it’s not a very

violent windup,” Joseph said.

“You don’t expect the ball to be on you as fast as it is. That was what I was really impressed

with. When I first put my glove up there, it was in my glove before I was ready for it to be in my

glove. I was like, ‘Oh, OK.’ I was watching his windup, just watching him, and before you know

it ...

“Very quick arm, but it’s controlled. Very smooth. He had a good feel for the slider. You have to

understand, too, it’s really early, so it’s hard to really judge, but the action of it looked good. And

he threw a couple really good splits.”

The Orioles are learning more about Liranzo. He earned a spot on the 40-man roster prior to the

Rule 5 draft by posting a 1.87 ERA and 0.887 WHIP in 27 combined games at low Single-A

Delmarva and Double-A Bowie, hurdling the high Single-A Carolina League in the process.

Liranzo averaged 12.1 strikeouts per nine innings at Delmarva, where he registered a 1.31 ERA

and 0.786 WHIP in 34 1/3 innings, and 9.6 strikeouts/nine innings at Bowie. Scouts obviously

took notice and the Orioles weren’t going to risk losing him.

“I had never seen him before. I just heard things about him,” Joseph said. “Of course, we

protected him, so there’s an anticipation there because he’s young and they’re not just going to

protect him unless they think he truly has a great chance of making the team.

“I caught him and he’s got a great presence. I first noticed his intensity in the PFP drills. He’s

taking it very seriously. Initially, that’s a great thing. Then we get on the mound and just really

good command of the four-seam. I was really impressed with his fastball command for a young

kid. I know Ramon (Martinez) probably has been working with him. Very clean delivery.

“I think mainly the thing I was most impressed with was his fastball command. You just don’t

see that from more of a hard thrower. I hear he can get up there in the fives, sixes, sevens and

even eights. And I was very impressed. For a young kid like that, normally they come out and

they’re throwing BBs all over the place, but their location is not as good.

“I’m excited. He seems like a really nice pickup for us. I’m glad he’s on our side.”

Liranzo threw another bullpen session yesterday, positioned next to left-hander Chris Lee on one

of the side mounds beside the indoor batting cage.

“He’s got a good arm,” said manager Buck Showalter. “Probably has the highest starting point of

his legs of anybody in camp. Check out walking around where his arms come to compared to

everybody else’s. He is long-limbed, which creates a lot of leverage.”

These are the things that Showalter notices.

“Good kid,” Showalter continued. “That’s a guy who could really burst on the scene.”

Liranzo is scheduled to pitch in Wednesday’s intrasquad game at Ed Smith Stadium. Today’s

six-inning game features Mike Wright, Logan Verrett, Zach Stewart, Jason Garcia, Jayson

Aquino and Joe Gunkel on one team, and Tyler Wilson, Gabriel Ynoa, Donnie Hart, Oliver

Drake, Parker Bridwell and Richard Rodríguez on the other team.

New left-hander Vidal Nuño is flying into Sarasota tonight and will report to camp on

Wednesday. He figures to be part of the bullpen in April, leaving one open spot if you factor in

Hart, Zach Britton, Darren O’Day, Brad Brach and Mychal Givens. Verrett could be the right-

handed version of Nuno - a long reliever capable of making the occasional start, but Logan

Ondrusek and Drake also are candidates to head north with the team.

Ondrusek, as I wrote yesterday, won’t pitch today and probably will be held out of Wednesday’s

game while recovering from an ankle injury.

The trade for Nuño made T.J. McFarland expendable and it didn’t do much for Jed Bradley,

another left-hander who’s in camp as a non-roster invitee.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/orioles-sign-bourn-to-minor-league-

deal.html

Orioles sign Bourn to minor league deal (updated)

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 20, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. - Orioles executive vice president Dan Duquette is on a roster roll.

The Orioles have re-signed outfielder Michael Bourn to a minor league deal with an invitation to

spring training. He can earn $2 million if he returns to the majors.

Bourn appeared in 24 games with the Orioles last season and batted .283/.358/.435 with two

home runs and eight RBIs in 46 at-bats. They acquired him from the Diamondbacks on Aug. 31

for minor league outfielder Jason Heinrich.

“Michael Bourn’s all-around play helped the club earn a 2016 playoff spot and we’re glad to

have him back for ‘17,” Duquette wrote in a text message.

The Orioles now have 55 players in camp. They don’t need to create a spot for Bourn on the 40-

man roster because he signed a minor league deal.

Duquette and manager Buck Showalter wanted to upgrade the outfield defense - center

fielder Adam Jones offered his own endorsement at FanFest - and they’ve taken two steps in

spring training by signing Craig Gentry on Saturday and Bourn today. They also completed a

trade yesterday for pitcher Vidal Nuño as part of the frenzy.

As Duquette often states, building the roster is a year-round job.

Bourn, 34, gives the Orioles another left-handed hitting outfielder to go with Hyun Soo

Kim, Seth Smith and Rule 5 pick Aneury Tavárez, plus switch-hitting Rule 5 pick Anthony

Santander. The camp roster also includes Chris Dickerson, Logan Schafer and David

Washington.

Bourn is a career .270/.337/.366 hitter versus right-handers. Gentry, who’s made a tremendous

early impression with the Orioles based on his speed, defense and arm, is a career .268/.350/.357

hitter against left-handers.

The platoon possibilities on this club are endless.

Each new outfielder brings into question how the Rule 5 picks and Joey Rickard could be

impacted. Rickard can play all three outfield positions and perhaps work into a platoon with Kim

or Smith.

The Orioles re-signed Mark Trumbo in January to a three-year deal and he also could be part of a

platoon in right field when he isn’t serving as the designated hitter.

Bourn is a career .266/.329/.357 hitter in 11 major league seasons with the Phillies, Astros,

Braves, Indians, Diamondbacks and Orioles. He’s a two-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove

winner.

The Braves released Bourn on April 9 and the Blue Jays released him on May 7. He signed with

the Diamondbacks three days later.

Bourn’s deal includes a March 25 opt-out if he isn’t in the majors, according to ESPN.com.

Update: I’m told the opt-out is March 27.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/notes-on-nuno-ondrusek-davis-andino-and-

more.html

Notes on Nuño, Ondrusek, Davis, Andino and more

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 20, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. - Left-hander Vidal Nuño will participate in his first workout on Wednesday

before leaving March 5 for the World Baseball Classic. He’s pitching for Team Mexico.

Manager Buck Showalter said Nuño has been working out for a few days and conditioning won’t

be an issue.

“He’s going to be in pitching shape when he gets back,” Showalter said. “I think he’s OK. Get a

chance to talk to him and see where he is with everything.”

Nuño could head north as a third left-hander in the Orioles’ bullpen, capable of pitching in long

relief and making spot starts.

“Nuño’s a really good competitor and our scouts like the way he competes in the American

League,” said executive vice president Dan Duquette. “We got a chance to see him first-hand

when he was with the Yanks and he had a good year as a starter. And he’s had a couple good

years since. Very competitive and keeps the ball down, changes speeds, has a pretty good

breaking ball. So, he has good equipment and a good approach and looks to be like a pretty good

fit.

“We were looking for some depth to our pitching staff and he can pitch out of the bullpen

effectively. Really good control, so he can come in and throw strikes out of the bullpen. And he

gives us another option as a fill-in starting pitcher. But over the course of his career and three

years major league experience, he’s pitched over 300 innings in the league and he’s done well.

He’s a three-plus player, so we could have him for the next couple of years.”

Nuño has a minor league option remaining, which also gave him an edge over left-hander T.J.

McFarland, who was designated for assignment to create room for Nuño on the 40-man roster.

“It gives us some flexibility with the pitching staff, some additional flexibility,” Duquette said.

“That was the thing with T.J., he was out of options and it’s just hard to make unilateral roster

moves when the player’s out of options.

A team claiming McFarland off waivers would pick up his $685,000 salary for 2017. The

Orioles could attempt to trade him.

“We’re going to try to resolve his contract status in the next three or four days.” Duquette said.

Nuño has lost 15 of his 20 decisions in the majors, but he’s registered a 4.02 ERA in 126

appearances. He averaged 1.7 walks per nine innings last season with the Mariners and had a

4.64 strikeout-to-walk ratio.

“Nuño should be a good complement to our staff,” Duquette said. “We have four right-handed

starters, so he could give us some innings out of the bullpen and be available if needed to fill in

as a starting pitcher. He gets good, solid results. Look at his other numbers.”

Showalter views Nuño as a starter or reliever. He’s not limiting his expectations.

“That’s one of the attractions of him - starter, long reliever, options,” Showalter said. “If you

look at how much more our whole pitching staff is from a maneuverability standpoint and

versatility, we’ve got to have that. We got caught in some tough situations last year where we

just couldn’t manipulate and maneuver like we needed to because of some of the option status,

and it’s something that Dan and I talked about a lot, and we’ve been able to really improve that.

“That’s one of the things with the decision with T.J. If you don’t feel like it’s a given that he’s

going to make your club, and you’re sitting there at the end of spring ... But we’re hoping that he

ends up back with us. We’ll see what the next couple of days bring.”

Vance Worley’s versatility and production enabled the Orioles to avoid making an excessive

amount of moves with their bullpen and risk losing certain pitchers.

“We were fortunate that Vance was good at it last year,” Showalter said. “If they’re not, the only

way to maneuver around it is to release a guy. And that has a certain sense of finality that it’s

tough to do early on.

“I look at it as 36 pitchers between Bowie and Norfolk and Baltimore. I think our guys really

believe that. Someone was telling me the number of players who started the year not in camp last

year who ended up playing with us. But we’ve got to continue to have those guys who have that

option.”

Logan Ondrusek won’t pitch in the intrasquad games being held Tuesday and Wednesday at Ed

Smith Stadium. He’s still recovering from an injury to his right ankle.

Chris Davis looks like a guy who’s swinging the bat without any discomfort in his left hand. The

injury hindered him for most of the 2016 season, though he still managed to hit 38 home runs.

“I’m sure it impacted him - mentally, too,” Showalter said. “You know things aren’t 100 percent.

Sometimes, guys all have something wrong with them during the course of the year. Some don’t

affect you as much as that one. Chris had some swings the year before where he swung one-

handed, but it’s a tribute to him. He didn’t use it as an excuse.

“I talked to him a lot about it during the year. Couple times he was like, ‘It’s not going to get

better until the offseason, so let’s go.’ And that was a real tribute to how much he could impact

our team defensively. He’s talked this year about wanting to get back in the Gold Glove picture

again. But he knew how much he meant to our club.

“How many walks did he end up with last year? He scored a lot of runs. You look where he

ranked in a lot of our departments. But it would be different if we were like, ‘OK, you can take

off two weeks and it will be fine.’ When you get that deep of an injury like that, nothing but a

real extended period (will help). You might think he’s starting to head the other way and then

one swing, you’re right back to square one again. It certainly impacted him.”

Davis drew 88 walks to lead the team last season and scored 99 runs to rank second

behind Manny Machado (105).

Center fielder Adam Jones told Showalter that his right shoulder feels much better.

“He’s back from that,” Showalter said. “You watch him take infield and throw the ball around,

he said this is the best his shoulder’s felt in a long time. That’s encouraging.”

Showalter also has been impressed with Craig Gentry’s arm.

“We’ve got a good group out there,” he said. “This is a big upgrade from, as a total group, the

outfielders we had in camp last year.”

Robert Andino began today’s workout at third base, but he also moved to shortstop and second

base. He won’t stay in one spot.

“I told Buck to put me everywhere,” he said. “Put me in the outfield. I’m going to see if I can

steal somebody’s first baseman’s mitt somewhere. Just whatever I’ve got to do, try to play in

October, that’s what it’s all about. Whatever I’ve got to do to help the team win, I’m here.”

Andino always hoped that he would come back to Baltimore, where he played from 2009-2012.

“I kept it in the back of my mind,” he said. “You never know in this game. It’s real exciting and

it’s a blessing to be back. It took long enough, but I’m just happy to be back.”

Andino became a fan favorite after his walk-off single beat the Red Sox in the final game of the

2011 season. The Red Sox missed the playoffs, fired their manager and “The Curse of the

Andino” was born.

“Oh yeah, man,” he said, smiling. “My first time here in ‘09, Buck gave me a chance to show

what I can do. I’m from Miami, but Baltimore’s always my home. I always have a special place

for Baltimore.”

Unfortunately, Andino said he won’t bring back his popular movie reviews that played on the

video board at Camden Yards.

“I ain’t focused on no movies this year,” he said, another smile creasing his face. “I’m focused

on catching the ball. Ain’t going to see no ‘Andino at the Movies.’ If they ask me, I’m focusing

on catching the ball, putting a bunt down or something.”

Andino served as a mentor of sorts to Machado and loves sharing the same spring training

clubhouse again.

“I messed with him today a little bit,” Andino said. ‘He used to use a Rawlings. ‘You’ve got to

use a Wilson. You’ve got a Platinum Glove now.’ He’s the man, now. I’ve just got to get back

into it and try and fit in the game, you know what I’m saying?

“This is their team. I’m just here to try and help them win a championship.”

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/quick-hits-from-todays-workout.html

Quick hits from today’s workout

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 20, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. - Left-hander Vidal Nuño, the newest Oriole in camp, isn’t working out today

and probably won’t report until midweek.

The roster remains at 54 players with Nuno’s addition and T.J. McFarland being designated for

assignment.

Robert Andino returned to camp after leaving yesterday to attend to a family matter. He worked

out at third base, shortstop and second base in an attempt to make the club in a utility role.

Andino could be the starting shortstop at Triple-A Norfolk, with Johnny Giavotella at second

base and Chris Johnson at third.

Reliever Logan Ondrusek participated in drills today, but he isn’t throwing off a mound after

rolling his ankle during Saturday’s workout.

Outfielder Craig Gentry is making a strong early impression in camp. I’ve heard him described

as a “plus runner and plus-plus defender” who’s finally healthy and ready to restart his career.

Gentry has battled a variety of injuries, along with concussion symptoms, but the Orioles think

he could be a valuable contributor this season if there are no setbacks. The question is how he

could impact the rest of the outfield, which includes Joey Rickard and Rule 5 picks Auneury

Tavárez and Anthony Santander.

The list of pitchers who threw on the side today included Ubaldo Jiménez, Darren O’Day, Zach

Britton, Wade Miley, Dylan Bundy, Jed Bradley, Chris Lee and Jesús Liranzo.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/washington-wants-to-bring-more-power-to-

orioles-lineup.html

Washington wants to bring more power to Orioles lineup

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 20, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. -The clubhouse won’t open to the media this morning because it’s Photo Day.

Players will be inside Ed Smith Stadium with smiles plastered on their faces. It’s quite a scene.

Vidal Nuño hasn’t met the media after the Orioles acquired him from the Dodgers yesterday for

minor league pitcher Ryan Moseley.

Nuño has a 5-20 career record, but let’s not judge him by it. His 4.02 ERA isn’t a disaster, and he

posted a 3.76 ERA and 1.088 WHIP in 2015 while going 0-7 in 14 starts with the

Diamondbacks.

Nuño is 0-3 with a 7.00 ERA in seven career games (two starts) against the Orioles. He’s made

three relief appearances at Camden Yards and allowed one run and one hit in 2 1/3 innings.

Center fielder Adam Jones may not approve of the trade. He’s 4-for-6 with two doubles and two

home runs against Nuño.

Position players weren’t required to show up at the complex before Thursday, which didn’t

prevent David Washington from reporting with the pitchers and catchers.

The resume says first baseman and outfielder. He’d like to update it to include major league

statistics.

Washington finally made it to the Triple-A level last year in the Cardinals’ organization, batting

.255/.349/.528 with 25 home runs and 62 RBIs in 105 games with Memphis. He also struck out

142 times in 345 at-bats.

The Orioles signed Washington as a minor league free agent in November, one day after his 26th

birthday.

“I just thought it was a good situation here,” Washington said. “Really exciting team to be on.

Seemed like a lot of good guys.”

It also seems like a good fit. Washington is big, listed at 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds. He hits lots of

home runs and is prone to striking out. He’s going to blend.

Asked what he offers here, Washington stated the obvious.

“Power would probably be the main thing,” he said. “Really just trying to find new ways to add

value.”

The Orioles noticed his .359 on-base percentage last season, which included 22 games at

Double-A Springfield. He sports a career .335 on-base percentage in eight minor league seasons,

but the power is what lured him to the Orioles.

“I think it’s a good fit and also they’ve got a lot of guys I can learn from,” he said. “Some really

good power hitters on this team, so I’m excited to learn from guys who know more than I do.”

Washington has been moving from first base to the outfield during workouts, as the Orioles

familiarize themselves with him and his skill set.

“He’s been mostly Double-A,” said manager Buck Showalter. “We’re hoping he’s starting to

scratch the surface. He’s a big, strong young man. He’s a six-year free agent you take a shot

with, see what happens.

“He brings a lot of size and strength, obviously. Trying to get a good feel for him. He’s a good

kid. We did a lot of homework on him.”

Washington is a San Diego native who figured to bond with Jones once introductions were

completed.

“I had never met him before, unfortunately,” Washington, a former 15th-round pick, said shortly

after reporting. “I’m looking forward to meeting him. A couple mutual friends. I’ve heard

nothing but great things about him.”

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/orioles-acquire-nuno-from-dodgers.html

Orioles acquire Vidal Nuño from Dodgers

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 19, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. - Orioles manager Buck Showalter mentioned today that his club had 54

players in major league camp, the lowest total in baseball. Left-hander Vidal Nuño temporarily

made it 55.

The Orioles have acquired Nuño from the Dodgers for minor league pitcher Ryan Moseley. They

had been awaiting the approval of ownership.

Left-hander T.J. McFarland was designated for assignment to create room on the 40-man roster,

again leaving the Orioles with 54.

Showalter wants to carry a left-handed long reliever/swingman in his bullpen and Nuño, 29, fits

the description. He’s 5-20 with a 4.02 ERA and 1.260 WHIP in 126 games, including 42 starts,

with the Yankees, Diamondbacks and Mariners. His major league debut came in 2013, so he’s

approaching his fifth organization in a short period of time.

The Dodgers acquired Nuño from the Mariners on Nov. 7 for catcher Carlos Ruiz, but he’s on

the move again. He went 1-1 with a 3.53 ERA in 55 games (one start) with Seattle last summer.

The bullpen will include closer Zach Britton and rookie Donnie Hart. McFarland is out of

options and figured to be impacted by the trade.

“Our scouts like how Nuño competes in the American League and old-school baseball people

will appreciate how he works fast, throws strikes and changes speeds,” said executive vice

president Dan Duquette. “We look forward to his contributions to the 2017 club.”

Nuño is part of Team Mexico’s roster for the World Baseball Classic, which will force him to

leave camp along with five other Orioles.

Nuño is under team control through 2019 and will make $1.125 million next season. Left-

handers are hitting .224/.285/.356 against him.

The Orioles drafted Moseley in the eighth round last year out of Texas Tech and he went 0-1

with a 3.20 ERA in 12 relief appearances. Nathan Showalter, the son of Orioles manager Buck

Showalter, scouted and signed Moseley.

The Baltimore Sun first reported that the trade was close.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/ondrusek-sidelined-with-ankle-injury-plus-

more-notes.html

Ondrusek sidelined with ankle injury (plus more notes)

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 19, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. - Reliever Logan Ondrusek may not pitch in Wednesday’s intrasquad game

after rolling his right ankle yesterday during a drill. He’s been walking with a limp and continues

to receive treatment.

Ondrusek was supposed to be on the same team as starter Wade Miley, Dylan Bundy, Zach

Britton, Mychal Givens and Jed Bradley.

Ondrusek, 32, said the injury occurred as he tried to avoid running into a teammate.

“It’s a little sore,” he said. “It’s kind of a fluke little thing. Trying not to have a collision and put

on the brakes a little bit and kind of jammed the heel into the ground. There’s a little bit of

swelling in the ankle and until that goes away and I feel comfortable off the mound and

throwing, you’ve got to kind of take a step back, which is unfortunate, but at least it’s early in

camp and not right at the end.”

The Orioles were running a ‘tweener play with pitchers moving to different positions.

“It’s a little different than I’ve always done it,” he said. “I’m partially at fault because I’m still

learning all the things here, how they go about doing things. I went after a ball probably a little

more than I should have or maybe not as hard and next thing I know there’s a guy in front of me.

I tried to stop and unfortuantely just kind of jammed the ankle a little bit.

“It feels better than it did yesterday. Obviously, we’re doing all kinds of stuff to get it right, but

you can’t really rush that and change something else just to jump back up there. Hopefully, it’s

just two days or three days and I’m back on the mound and can put all this behind me and be

ready to go.

“I don’t think I’m throwing off a mound tomorrow unless a miracle happens, but it’s up to the

doctors and trainers in there to say, ‘Hey, this is what we’re going to do,’ and how I feel.

Hopefully, we keep progressing. Like tday was better than yesterday, and hopefully tomorrow is

a lot better and just go from there.”

Ondrusek has rolled his ankle in the past playing high school sports and missed a day or two.

“It’s been a while since I’ve done it this bad, but it’s nothing that I haven’t done before,” he said.

“I’m older now than I used to be, so it’s going to take maybe a day or two extra, but we also have

to be smart because it’s a long season. It’s not even March yet. The goal is to be ready for

opening day.”

The Orioles re-signed Ondrusek to a one-year, $650,000 contract on Dec. 13 with a $1.5 million

option for 2018. He had a 9.95 ERA in seven relief appearances last season.

Left-hander T.J. McFarland had some shoulder soreness yesterday, according to manager Buck

Showalter, but is feeling better today.

“Just a one-day thing,” Showalter said.

Showalter said shortstop J.J. Hardy’s back is “much better.” Hardy sounded relieved this

morning that the back has improved after he was sent for an MRI, CT scan and bone scan.

Chris Tillman did some long-tossing again today and said his shoulder feels better after each

session. He added that he feels like he could get hitters out right now.

Infielder Robert Andino left camp today for a family matter. The Orioles summoned Adrian

Marin from their minor league complex to provide enough infielders for their morning drills.

Rule 5 outfielder Anthony Santander hasn’t been cleared to bat from the left side after

undergoing surgery on his right shoulder. He may be used as the designated hitter in intrasquad

games.

“He’s fine right-handed. He still feels it a little bit left-handed,” Showalter said.

“I think it’s just unknown because the guy had this and he was theirs. Until we got him and got

our arms around him, we didn’t know exactly ... We had an idea what we were dealing with, but

until you get him in front of you ... I’d say he’s about where we hoped he was. He’s not behind.

He’s going to be a player here before this camp is over, for sure.

“I might DH him in the intrasquad games. I was trying to decide. I don’t want him hitting right-

handed against right-handed pitchers, though.”

Hyun Soo Kim told Showalter that he wants to play in both intrasquad games.

“I thought that was kind of revealing,” Showalter said. “A lot of things that we knew were going

to be a challenge for him that he overcame that aren’t this year. I think it bodes well for his

potential. I think he’s got another level he can go to. “

Showalter said Kim won’t travel early just to face left-handers. Kim could be sent to minor

league camp and lead off every inning against left-handers in intrasquad games. The Orioles can

dictate the matchups.

Christian Walker worked out at first base and in the outfield this morning. David Washington did

the same, but Trey Mancini is working out only at first base.

The Orioles went through bunting drills today. Chris Davis kept pushing the ball to the left side,

which comes in handy against the shift.

Showalter indicated that catcher Welington Castillo could be used as the designated hitter on

occasion this season versus left-handers.

“He’d be one of the guys I’d consider there,” Showalter said.

“It’s not that big of a deal. You just play a National League game. It’s not like the world’s

coming to an end if you have to take your DH and put him behind the plate. The world might

come to an end if you have to put Ryan Flaherty back there. That’s the one you don’t like. But I

don’t worry about that that much.”

The Orioles have 54 players in camp, the fewest in baseball. Showalter said three teams have 69

players.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/ynoa-trying-to-seize-opportunity-with-

orioles.html

Ynoa trying to seize opportunity with Orioles

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 19, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. - Gabriel Ynoa knows that he has a chance to impact the Orioles this season.

It just depends what he does with it.

The Orioles made an attempt to improve their pitching depth on Feb. 10 by acquiring Ynoa from

the Mets for cash considerations. They designated catcher Francisco Pena for assignment and he

cleared waivers.

Ynoa, 23, has thrown a couple of bullpen sessions and will pitch in Tuesday’s intrasquad game,

expected to be played on the Ed Smith Stadium field. Ynoa is in the group with starter Tyler

Wilson, Donnie Hart, Oliver Drake, Parker Bridwell and Richard Rodriguez.

The trade was “a great opportunity,” he said through interpreter Ramon Alarcon. “I thought they

did it because they needed me, so I’m going to take this opportunity and try to do the best job I

can do.”

Ynoa is 59-30 with a 3.36 ERA and 1.17 WHIP in 136 minor league games, including 128 starts.

He went 12-5 with a 3.97 ERA last summer in 25 starts with Triple-A Las Vegas, ranking third

in the Pacific Coast League with 154 1/3 innings pitched.

In 10 games with the Mets last summer, Ynoa allowed 13 runs and 26 hits with seven walks and

17 strikeouts in 18 1/3 innings. He had a 3.18 ERA in three starts.

Executive vice president Dan Duquette stated after the trade that Orioles scouts believe Ynoa can

develop into a quality major league starter by developing a consistent breaking pitch.

“I am making an adjustment on that,” Ynoa said. “I’ve heard that comment before and I’m

definitely working on that every day.”

Ynoa seems to be blending in with his new teammates on the 53-man camp roster. He’s getting

the assistance that he needs, whether it’s on the field or via an interpreter.

“I feel very good working together as a team. I feel comfortable with the staff,” he said.

“I relate well with the entire staff so far and everything I’ve asked, they’ve been able to answer

my questions. So everything is good so far.”

His brief stint with the Mets could ease the transition.

“I had a great experience last year, a great learning experience for me last year. I’m looking

forward to learning from this experience and putting it together to do a good job,” Ynoa said.

“I learned how to pitch better. Hopefully, I’ll continue to learn that over here with the pitching

coaches, their teachings. I’m also trying to get quick outs. I see something, that’s an area I can

improve upon.”

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/mcfarland-moving-on-from-disappointing-

2016-season.html

McFarland moving on from disappointing 2016 season

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 19, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. - T.J. McFarland didn’t know whether the Orioles would tender him a contract

over the winter. Whether he still was regarded as a fit for their bullpen. Whether a lost season

made him disappear from their plans.

The first question no longer is in play. The Orioles reached agreement on a deal that pays

McFarland $685,000 for the upcoming season.

Manager Buck Showalter wants a third left-handed reliever, a guy capable of giving him

multiple innings. McFarland has done it in the past, which theoretically makes him a fit.

McFarland doesn’t have a job waiting for him, but he’s allowed to compete for it. The rest is up

to him.

“With the year that I had, it’s tough to read into it and know exactly if you’re going to get

tendered, but I really wasn’t focused one way or the other,” he said. “I was kind of just more

focused on whatever happens happens and go from there. But it’s obviously great that I ended up

getting tendered and they showed the confidence in me that I can still help the ballclub.”

McFarland’s appearances with the Orioles dropped from 30 in 2015 to 16 last season, his innings

lowered from 40 1/3 to 24 2/3. He wasn’t effective or healthy, a bad combination for any player.

McFarland registered a 6.93 ERA and a 1.743 WHIP last season and averaged 3.6 walks to only

2.6 strikeouts per nine innings. The Orioles optioned him to Triple-A Norfolk on May 7, June 18,

June 25 - after recalling him earlier in the day as the 26th player for a doubleheader - and Aug.

29, and placed him on the disabled list June 30 with left knee inflammation.

The DL move came a month after McFarland, 27, injured the knee while covering home plate in

a game with the Tides.

“That definitely played a factor into (the struggles), but at the end of the day I think it was just

one of those years where I faced a lot of adversity and how I bounced back from it is going to

show a lot with everything between my character and my talent level. I’m trying to just bounce

back and get to where I know I can be and pitch to the ability that I know I can,” said McFarland,

who’s 12-7 with a 4.27 ERA in 121 major league games over parts of four seasons.

“It was my left knee, my push-off leg from the mound. Over the course of a few weeks I got a

cortisone shot earlier in the year that helped out a little bit, but it just kind of snowballed from

there. But it ended up being some inflammation under the patella and then I ended up getting a

PRP injection, which ended up wiping it out.”

The problem, of course, is that the injection doesn’t work immediately. He had to be shut down.

“I didn’t necessarily have the luxury of time to take off,” he said. “Eventually it went away, but

it took a little time.”

Camp is different for McFarland because it’s the first time that he’s been out of options. He has

no idea whether this works in his favor or against him and he’s not worrying about it.

“Whether you have options left or you don’t, at the end of the day the main goal is to make the

team,” he said. “I mean, you really can’t look at it any other way. Obviously, it is a different

aspect of it, I think, when determining whether or not I make the team, but in the sense of

urgency, in the sense of trying to do the best that I can, it really doesn’t change anything.”

The former Rule 5 pick has gained Showalter’s trust in the past and must do it again as the club

sifts through its candidates for third left-handed reliever.

“Yeah, that’s certainly something that I’ve done before, that I know I can do, so I think it’s just a

matter of me proving that I can do that for the team and that I can do it successfully,” he said. “I

think that’s kind of where I’m at right now, just proving myself.”

* Though the Orioles have signed Craig Gentry to a minor league contract and brought him to

camp, they still could add another outfielder before opening day. They’re always building the

roster and trying to improve their depth. Don’t assume he’s the final piece.

Showalter said there will be plenty of at-bats and innings available to the outfielders this spring.

“We can do it,” he said. “We’ve got two intrasquad games. We’ve got people leaving. We’ve got

B games. It’s just a matter of whether you’re willing to stay here to play the games.

“What else are we going to do? We’ve got plenty of reps. We’ve got games down below. We’ve

got all those. I think the evaluation of Craig won’t take that long. I could see him moving around

the outfield (yesterday) and the infield in the drills. That part of it kind of sticks out. He can

really defend.”

http://www.masnsports.com/steve-melewski/2017/02/orioles-outfield-options-expanding-and-

getting-complicated.html

Orioles outfield options: Expanding and getting complicated

By Steve Melewski / MASNsports.com

February 21, 2017

Maybe this is all Adam Jones’ doing. The Orioles’ additions the last three days of

outfielders Craig Gentry and Michael Bourn give the team a definite chance to become more

athletic and better on defense in the corner outfield spots.

Both players were added on minor league deals, so they will have to make the roster. If one or

both do that, it will have some significant ramifications for other players going forward.

The additions of Gentry and/or Bourn could make it more difficult for Trey Mancini to make the

opening day roster. The same could be said for the Rule 5 picks, outfielders Anthony

Santander and Auneury Tavárez. It might complicate things for Joey Rickard and it could

make Mark Trumbo a full-time DH that almost never sees time in the outfield. Over the longer

haul, it could threaten the 40-man roster spots of Dariel Álvarez and/or Christian Walker.

If Trumbo is counted as an outfielder on the roster, the O’s likely have four with guaranteed

opening day roster spots barring injury in Trumbo, Jones, Hyun Soo Kim and Seth Smith. After

that, the battle is on. Do the Orioles keep five outfielders? Maybe six?

If they keep 12 pitchers over the bulk of the season (even if they start with less) and two

catchers, they could keep five infielders (the four starters and Ryan Flaherty) and six outfielders.

That would leave Rickard, Gentry, Bourn, Santander, Tavarez, Alvarez and Walker battling for

two spots. That doesn’t even include other non-roster outfielders like Chris Dickerson, Logan

Schafer and David Washington.

The Orioles certainly have a few interesting outfield platoon possibilities. A look at some Orioles

outfielders’ batting versus right-handed pitching:

* Smith hits .272/.355/.472

* Kim hits .321/.393/.446

* Bourn hits .270/.337/.336

O’s outfielders versus left-handed pitching:

* Gentry hits .268/.350/.357

* Rickard hits .313/.367/.494

Those are career numbers that include, of course, just one season for Kim and Rickard. But the

numbers look solid with three of those five posting OPS numbers of .800 or better and four of

the five posting OBPs of .350 or better.

Among the options where the Orioles could mix and match would include a Bourn platoon with

Gentry or Rickard at the leadoff spot. That would provide the club both some speed and defense

and a leadoff batter. Again, a lot of possibilities here.

Nothing is set now before even one spring training game is played. But with Jones heading to the

WBC, there will be plenty outfield at-bats around to look at all of these players. No one is saying

Mancini or Rickard will be optioned to Triple-A, but they could be. That only means they would

not be on the roster for the opener, but they could come up and join the roster at any time. These

possibilities could even potentially include Smith losing playing time to someone else and they

could include one or both of Gentry and Bourn not even making the team. There could be an

injury or several injuries to further shake things up.

Remember when it looked like the Orioles’ 25-man roster was mostly set? Not so much

anymore, especially in the outfield.

http://www.masnsports.com/steve-melewski/2017/02/a-look-at-a-rather-newsy-first-week-of-

camp.html

A look at a rather newsy first week of camp

By Steve Melewski / MASNsports.com

February 19, 2017

Here a few thoughts on the first week of spring training. There have been a few concerning

moments already after the initial excitement that baseball was back.

Chris Tillman’s shoulder: It was not great news when we found out Tillman’s streak of opening

day starts will likely end at three. But for now there is no evidence that his shoulder problem will

turn into a major issue. But, as with most arm and shoulder injuries, we also won’t know it is

nothing to worry about until he returns and makes several starts (maybe more) and looks like his

normal self. So, it’s going to be a while.

The analysts on MLB Network actually had this one wrong the other day when they discussed

basically how concerning it is to have an issue develop on Day 1 of camp. They implied that

Tillman threw and was then shut down during workouts at Ed Smith Stadium. Actually he was

shut down long before that - in December when he got the PRP injection.

Since then the Orioles have actually traded away a starting pitcher when Yovani Gallardo was

moved for outfielder Seth Smith in January. They recently added Gabriel Ynoa but didn’t seem

to go that hard to bring back Vance Worley and have said to be pursuing starters for depth only.

It would seem the Orioles might have been more aggressive in pursuing another starter if the

concern over Tillman missing a lot of time was high. Also the fact the club has put a date on

Tillman’s first spring start - they are shooting for March 17 - for now leads one to believe the

team is confident that this issue will get resolved.

J.J. Hardy’s back: Manager Buck Showalter quickly said “nothing is in jeopardy” about this

issue of Hardy’s back spasms. The concern level is low at the moment. As with Tillman, we

won’t know Hardy is fine for a while though, until he plays and proves it.

But he had several tests including an MRI, CT scan and bone scan and that apparently rules out

anything more serious, which is big. Hardy could be playing by March 10.

At a time when there are so many young, talented shortstops in the game - from Carlos Correa, to

Francisco Lindor, Xander Bogaerts and Corey Seager to name four - the Orioles truly need their

veteran shortstop.

Hardy no longer seems to be a threat to hit 20 or more homers and maybe he has lost a step or

two on defense. But he is still very solid with the glove and means so much to both Manny

Machado and Jonathan Schoop. Even some of the defensive metrics rate him well.

Did the O’s get their outfielder?: All the time that we’ve discussed and speculated on which

outfielder the Orioles might add, I don’t think anyone had Craig Gentry in the pool. But if he

truly proves to be healthy and a plus runner and plus defender, he could prove to be a solid

addition. He was added on a minor league contract on Saturday, so he is not even taking a 40-

man roster spot yet.

Gentry earned 15 Defensive Runs Saved in 654 outfield innings in 2012, 11 DRS in 648 innings

in 2013 and 9 DRS in 560 innings in 2014. He has played just 232 outfield innings the last two

seasons, but said he is healthy now.

Gentry is a career .261/.335/.333 hitter who batted .304 in 2012 and .280 in 2013. He has two

seasons of 20 or more steals. A right-handed batter, he is a career .268/.350/.357 hitter against

left-handed pitching.

If he makes this team as a fourth or fifth outfielder, it could potentially push one of many players

off the roster. Would his addition potentially send Joey Rickard and/or Trey Mancini to Triple-

A? What about the two Rule 5 players? Gentry probably becomes among the players most worth

watching in spring to see how well he does defend and what his addition could mean for other

players.

The first week of camp also featured first baseman Chris Davis providing a clean bill of

health on his left thumb, Smith settling in with his new team, pitcher Brad Brach winning his

arbitration hearing and several minor league signings. It certainly has not been boring. And that

is before even an one intrasquad game has been played.

Orioles bring Michael Bourn back on minor league deal

ESPN.com

February 21, 2017

General manager Dan Duquette announced Monday that Bourn has agreed to a minor league

contract and will report to big league spring training.

"His all-around play helped the club earn a 2016 playoff spot," Duquette said. "The O's are glad

to have him back."

Bourn would earn $2 million if he makes the Orioles' MLB roster, a source told ESPN's Jim

Bowden, confirming a report by FanRag Sports.

Bourn's deal includes a March 25 opt-out if he's not on the big league roster, a source told

ESPN's Jerry Crasnick.

Bourn, who first reached the major leagues in 2006, also played for Toronto, Philadelphia and

Houston. His best season was 2011 when, while playing for the Braves and Astros, he set career-

highs by batting .294 with 34 doubles and 61 stolen bases.

Last year, Bourn hit .264 with five homers, 38 RBIs and 15 stolen bases with the Orioles and

Diamondbacks.

http://www.csnmidatlantic.com/baltimore-orioles/orioles-starting-rotation-ranked-near-bottom-

mlb

ORIOLES STARTING ROTATION RANKED NEAR THE

BOTTOM OF MLB

By Tyler Byrum / CSN MID-ATLANTIC

February 19, 2017

Coming into the 2017 season, the Baltimore Orioles are looking to build off a Wild Card

appearance last year that ended in disappointment.

In the off-season the team needed to address numerous issues along their roster, especially the

team’s starting pitching. Without any major moves during the winter, the Orioles will start the

season with the 24th best starting rotation in the majors according to USA Today.

Last year the team’s rotation was not that great and a majority of them are returning to the squad

this season. Behind Kevin Gausman (3.61 ERA) and Chris Tillman (3.77), the remaining six

regular starters averaged a 5.35 ERA. Only one of those pitchers had a sub 5.00 ERA and that

was right-hander Dylan Bundy (4.02).

He started the season primarily as a reliever but towards the end of the year he was consistently

in the five-man rotation. In the games he started, the right-handed pitcher finished with a 8-5

record. None of the other starters, excluding Chris Tillman, finished the season with a winning

record.

Based on essentially no pitching moves by the organization, it appears that the 24-year-old

Bundy will be called on to be the third man in the rotation.

The next rotation spot is lining up for Wade Miley, a starting pitcher the Orioles acquired last

season from the Seattle Mariners. Starting in 11 games for Baltimore he only registered two

wins.

Leaving only one rotation slot open, returner’s Ubaldo Jimenez, Tyler Wilson, and Mike Wright

will be fighting for the spot. Jimenez, who gave up the homerun that ended the 2016 campaign

against the Toronto Blue Jays, initially looks to be one of the pitchers to fill in.

While the free agent class was not stellar this off-season, it included two World Series

champions Jason Hammel and Edinson Volquez. Other notable free agents were Ivan Nova, R.A.

Dickey, and Rich Hill.

Of all the minor transactions the team made in the past three months only one pitcher, Tomo

Ohka, has notable experience as a starting pitcher. He turns 41 in March.

https://www.pressboxonline.com/2017/02/20/orioles-re-sign-michael-bourn-to-minor-league-

contract

Orioles Re-Sign Michael Bourn to Minor League Contract

By Rich Dubroff / PressBoxOnline.com

February 20, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. -- The competition for Orioles outfield spots became even more intense Feb.

20 when the team announced it had re-signed Michael Bourn to a minor league contract.

Bourn's deal, which is reportedly for $2 million and contains a March 25 opt-out if he is not on

the major league roster, adds yet another speedy, defensive-minded outfielder to a team in need

of them.

In the past three days, the Orioles added Bourn and veteran outfielder Craig Gentry, both on

minor league deals.

Bourn, who was with the Orioles for the final month of the 2016 season, batted .284 with two

home runs and eight RBIs. The 34-year-old wanted to return to the Orioles but was reluctant to

accept a minor league deal.

"Michael Bourn's all-around play helped the club earn a 2016 playoff spot and O's are glad to

have him back for '17," Orioles executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette

wrote in a text message.

Center fielder Adam Jones said at FanFest Jan. 28 that the team needed to improve its outfield

defense, and now it apparently has. While three other outfielders -- Hyun Soo Kim, Seth Smith

and Mark Trumbo -- are not considered plus-defenders, Bourn and Gentry will presumably battle

with last year's Rule 5 draft pick Joey Rickard and Aneury Tavarez, a Rule 5 pick this year, for

the final outfield spots.

The Orioles also have Dariel Alvarez, Christian Walker and another Rule 5 pick, Anthony

Santander, in camp as well as non-roster outfielders Chris Dickerson and Logan Schafer.

News of the Bourn signing was first reported by MASNsports.com.

https://www.pressboxonline.com/2017/02/20/back-with-the-orioles-robert-andino-hopes-to-

make-a-difference

Back with the Orioles, Robert Andino hopes to make a

difference

By Rich Dubroff / PressBoxOnline.com

February 20, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. -- Mention Robert Andino to an Orioles fan, and the result is likely to be a

warm smile. Most fans remember his game-winning hit against the Boston Red Sox Sept. 28,

2011 as a turning point in Orioles history.

Andino, now 32 and five years removed from his last spring training with the Orioles, is back. In

between, the infielder, who was traded to Seattle Dec. 1, 2012, has played 42 major league

games with the Mariners in 2013 and Miami last year. In 2015, Andino's only action came in

independent ball, when he played for the Somerset Patriots of the Atlantic League.

But, just as Orioles fans loved him, Andino loved being in Baltimore.

"I kept it in the back of my mind. You never know in this game," Andino said. "I'm real excited,

and it's a blessing to be back. It took long enough, but I'm just happy to be back."

When manager Buck Showalter came to the Orioles in August 2010, he noticed that Andino,

who had come to the team a year before, was buried at Triple-A Norfolk. Andino was having a

decent year for the Tides, and Showalter asked then-president of baseball operations Andy

MacPhail to bring him up so he could take a look. A year later came "The Curse of the Andino."

"Buck gave me a chance to show what I can do," Andino said. "Baltimore, I'm from Miami, but

Baltimore's always my home. I always have a special place for Baltimore."

Andino will probably start the season in Norfolk as the Tides' regular shortstop. Even though

Manny Machado and Jonathan Schoop play nearly every game for the Orioles at third and

second base, Andino can play there, too. He can also play the outfield.

"I told Buck to put me everywhere. Put me in the outfield. I'm going to see if I can steal

somebody's first-baseman's mitt somewhere," Andino said. "Just whatever I've got to do, try to

play in October; that's what it's all about. Whatever I've got to do to help the team win, I'm here."

When he was last with the Orioles, Machado was a raw, 20-year-old rookie. Things have

changed a lot for the two Miamians.

"I messed with him today a little bit. 'Look at you ...You've got a Platinum Glove now,'" Andino

said. "He's the man, now. I've just got to get back into it and try and fit in the game, you know

what I'm saying? This is their team. I'm just here to try and help them win a championship."

When Andino was last with the Orioles, he was featured in a popular segment on the scoreboard

offering pithy movie reviews. That's not likely to return, he says.

"I ain't focused on no movies this year. I'm focused on catching the ball," Andino said. "Ain't

going to see no 'Andino at the Movies.' If they ask me, I'm focusing on catching the ball, putting

a bunt down or something."

NUNO COMING: Left-handed pitcher Vidal Nuno, who was acquired Feb. 19, is scheduled to

report Feb. 22, Showalter said. He's scheduled to leave to pitch for Team Mexico in the World

Baseball Classic March 5.

Showalter said he's not going to look at Nuno as strictly a bullpen arm.

"That's one of the attractions of him," Showalter said. "[He's a] starter, reliever, long reliever,

[has] options. If you look at how much more our whole pitching staff -- one, from a

maneuverability standpoint, and two, [with] versatility -- we've got to have that."

To make room for Nuno on the roster, the Orioles designated left-handed pitcher T.J. McFarland

for assignment.

"We got caught in some tough situations last year where we couldn't manipulate or maneuver the

way we needed to with the option status, but it's something [executive vice president of baseball

operations Dan Duquette] and I, we talked about a lot, and it's something we've really been able

to improve at," Showalter said. "It's one of the things with the decision with T.J. If you don't feel

it's a given that he's going to make your club, then you're sitting there at the end of spring. But

we're hoping he ends up back with us. We'll see what the next couple of days bring."

NOTES: The Orioles play the first of two intrasquad games at Ed Smith Stadium at 1:05 p.m.

Feb. 21. The game is not open to the public. … Right-hander Logan Ondrusek, recovering from a

right ankle injury, won't pitch in either game.

https://www.pressboxonline.com/2017/02/19/orioles-acquire-lefty-swingman-vidal-nuno-from-

dodgers/

Orioles acquire lefty swingman Vidal Nuno from Dodgers

By Rich Dubroff / PressBoxOnline.com

February 19, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. – The Orioles capped off a surprisingly busy first week of spring training with

a trade on Feb. 19, acquiring left-handed pitcher Vidal Nuno from the Los Angeles Dodgers in

exchange for minor league pitcher Ryan Moseley.

Manager Buck Showalter has said the Orioles could carry three left-handers on the roster, and

Nuno, who has started and relieved in the majors, could join Zach Britton and Donnie Hart on

the roster.

Moseley, an 8th round pick of the Orioles in 2016, was 0-1 with a 3.20 ERA in 12 games for

Aberdeen last season.

In the spring’s first week, the Orioles revealed that Chris Tillman, who has started the past three

Opening Day games, had a platelet-rich plasma injection and would not start the April 3 opener.

Tillman could start the season on the disabled list.

With few veteran starting pitchers available, the Orioles added a swingman. Nuno is 5-20 with a

4.02 ERA in four seasons with the New York Yankees, Arizona and Seattle.

"Our scouts like how Vidal Nuno competes in the American League and old school baseball

people will appreciate how he works fast, throws strikes and changes speeds. We look forward to

his contributions to the 2017 club," Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations Dan

Duquette wrote in a text message.

To make room for Nuno on the roster, the Orioles designated left-handed pitcher T.J. McFarland

for assignment.

Nuno is on the roster for Team Mexico in the World Baseball Classic. He could leave the Orioles

less than two weeks after he’s expected to arrive. Mexico’s first game is on March 9.

Before the trade was made, Showalter said that the Orioles’ 54 players in camp were fewer than

any other team in the major leagues.

But it’s the second pitching addition to the 40-man roster in the past 10 days. On Feb. 9, the

Orioles traded for New York Mets prospect Gabriel Ynoa. Besides adding Ynoa and Nuno, the

Orioles also recently signed veteran infielder Chris Johnson to a minor league contract and added

outfielder Craig Gentry.

Johnson, the son of Triple-A Norfolk manager Ron Johnson, could play for his father. Gentry

could compete with Joey Rickard for a backup spot in the outfield. He adds speed and defense,

something the Orioles were looking for.

Besides Tillman’s injury, the Orioles won’t see shortstop J.J. Hardy on the field for some time.

He’s suffering from lower back spasms, and manager Buck Showalter said that if everything

goes well, Hardy could play for the first time on March 10.

https://www.pressboxonline.com/2017/02/19/adam-jones-im-here-for-one-reason-and-thats-to-

win/

Adam Jones: ‘I’m here for one reason and that’s to win’

By Rich Dubroff / PressBoxOnline.com

February 19, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. – As Adam Jones prepared to catch his first fly ball of the spring, he trotted to

the deepest part of center field and smiled. It was Jones’ subtle answer to the criticisms that he

plays too shallow.

On Feb. 13, as Orioles camp opened, Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations Dan

Duquette said that former major league outfielder and ESPN analyst Doug Glanville thought

Jones’ play would improve if he played deeper.

Jones said Feb. 18 that it wasn't a message to Duquette, who said that the center fielder didn’t

talk to him about his remarks on Jan. 28 at FanFest that the Orioles needed to improve their

outfield defense.

"We’re all entitled to an opinion, correct?" Jones said.

Jones was coy when asked if he was going to change how he played, indicating he might pay

special attention to the Orioles roof deck beyond his position.

"We shall see. I might be up in that center field section up there having a few pops during the

game if that’s where they want me to play, but at the end of the day I’m going to do what I do

and that’s just how it works," Jones said.

In his session with reporters to begin spring training, Duquette had said the Orioles needed to

improve their outfield defense, and they tried to address it with the Feb. 18 signing of Craig

Gentry to a minor league contract.

Jones isn’t sorry he made the suggestion.

"No. What’s too honest, telling the truth? I think that shows that I care. I’m here for one reason.

I’m not here to be friends with anybody. I’m here to win, and at the end of the day I think that’s

what we’re all here for. From myself to PR people to general manager, everybody that scouts, I

think we’re all in the same mission is to win a championship for Baltimore. If they want to have

friends, I’ve got my own friends. I don’t need any more friends. I’m here for one reason and

that’s to win," Jones said.

"I told the truth. I guess people don’t like hearing the truth. Oh well. We’re grownups, we’re

professionals. We’ll handle it the right way."

Jones will be in camp a relatively short time before leaving on March 6 to play for Team USA in

the World Baseball Classic. Always wanting to play more and not sit, Jones has to find the right

formula for the right number of games before he leaves.

"All of them. I want to get a lot of at-bats. I’m here to play baseball, so if there’s a baseball

game, let me play it," Jones said.

"I just think it’s a matter of being smart with my body and not trying to overdo it. The WBC’s

important, very important, but the most important thing is playing for the Orioles and playing

from April to hopefully October. I understand that’s most important, but I’m going to go out

there and give my all for Team USA because it is very, very important for me to go out there and

represent my family," Jones said.

In 2013, Jones played for Team USA, which lost in the second round. He’s hoping to get farther

this year.

"It’s representing your country. You’ve got your country on your chest. You throw away the

MLB. You’ve got the United States on your chest. That’s just a different feeling," Jones said.

On March 11, the United States will play the Dominican Republic, and Jones will face his

longtime teammate Manny Machado, who is set to play shortstop against Team USA.

“If you’re in another uniform, you could be my momma. I don’t care. You’re in another uniform,

you’re an opponent. Treat it as an opponent. After the game is after the game, but during the

game, it is what it is,” Jones said.

Now in his 10th season with the Orioles, Jones continues to get excited about the team.

"I think I’m always the most positive guy when it comes to the guys in the clubhouse. I always

love the guys we have. I’m not afraid to say that, I’m not afraid to say that … at the end of the

day everybody’s going to have to do something in terms of moves. I always say hit me up at the

All-Star break to see where we’re at and that will let you know how things go. Last year at the

All-Star break we made a couple moves because we were in it," Jones said.

“That’s just how the game goes, right? When we go up north, I don’t know who we’re going to

go up with exactly but I know that we’re going to be ready to play baseball and ready to play a

season. I’m not concerned about who we have in here right now. I just know that at the All-Star

break when we’re at the trade deadline and we’re in extreme competition, I know that the front

office – [manager Buck Showalter], Dan and [managing general partner Peter Angelos] – will

get us the help that we need.”

With two years to go on his contract, Jones says the time is not right to talk about an extension.

“That’s not up to me. Do you want me to go to Peter and say, ‘excuse me Mr. Angelos, can I

have some more money? That’s not going to happen. If you go out and handle your things

between the lines, everything will handle itself,” Jones said.

NOTES: Minor league infielder Robert Andino is away from the club due to a family matter.

Adrian Marin was called over from minor league camp to fill in. … Right-handed reliever Logan

Ondrusek has a sprained right ankle. He hopes to be back in a few days.

https://www.pressboxonline.com/2017/02/18/manny-machados-spring-prep-moved-up-due-to-

world-baseball-classic

Manny Machado’s spring prep moved up due to World

Baseball Classic

By Rich Dubroff / PressBoxOnline.com

February 18, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. – It was an expansive Manny Machado who talked with the Baltimore media.

He finds it hard to believe that he’s now in his seventh spring training with the Orioles, and still

only 24 years old.

Machado has to get serious about his preparation this year much earlier than he has in previous

spring training camps. The Orioles begin Grapefruit League play on Feb. 24, and just 11 days

later, he’ll face the Orioles when he plays shortstop for the Dominican Republic’s entry in the

World Baseball Classic.

"Obviously, these games are a little more important. I've got to get ready a little quicker and

mentally, too. Physically, just getting ready for baseball, just like I would any other year. Once

the games starts, I'll probably put a little more intensity into it...the first couple games trying to

ease my way into it," Machado said.

Manager Buck Showalter has said that he wanted to play Machado at shortstop to help him

prepare for the WBC. With J.J. Hardy being held out with back spasms, that move makes lots of

sense. Adrian Beltre of the Texas Rangers has been ruled out of the first round of the WBC with

a calf strain, but Machado says he won’t be moving to third.

Machado and catcher Welington Castillo will leave March 5 to play for the Dominican Republic.

Second baseman Jonathan Schoop leaves Feb. 28 to play for the Netherlands, and center fielder

Adam Jones and right-handed reliever Mychal Givens leave on March 6 to play for Team USA.

"Buck came up to us and set up a nice little program of what games we want to play in and what

games we want to play before...You also don't want to go in and play too many games early on

and get tired. I know we're going to play quite a few games in the Classic. You don't want to play

too many games as well because I don't want to get fatigued for the year. There are a lot of things

Buck sees where later on you kind of sit back and realize why he does it, so I kind of put a

perspective on that as well," Machado said.

Machado says he wants to play in six or seven games before he leaves for the WBC. The Orioles

have five games in Sarasota, and Machado rarely plays road games in the Grapefruit League.

"I’m probably going to be playing 162 this year or 160 whatever it is, including the Classic. Just

take enough quality at-bats, quality innings that I’m going to be playing," Machado said. "Just

monitoring it -- don’t exaggerate it, don’t over-do it. Just a matter of quality over quantity."

Machado said that even though he’s playing shortstop now, the Orioles miss Hardy.

"I’m confident he’s ... going to deal with it. J.J. is a hard worker, he takes the time off he needs

and listens to the trainers and people around him to get right. I’ve been around him for years

now, if it’s 15 days he’s got to be off the field he’s going to be back on the 16th day. He’s

grinder, he’s going to grind through everything as much as possible to be ready for opening day

or whatever it is. If it’s nothing serious, I guarantee he’ll be there on opening day," Machado

said.

Last June 7, Machado charged the mound when Kansas City Royals right-hander Yordano

Ventura threw at him. On Jan. 22, Ventura was killed in an automobile accident in the

Dominican Republic.

"It’s sad what happened. My condolences go to the family and I know they’re still grieving…I

know we had our altercations on the field but you know what, you leave stuff on the field. Once

you step between those lines, its [the] gridiron," Machado said. "You know, once you step [off]

the field, those are things you don’t want to happen. I was just trying to reach out to the family

and see if they needed anything. I wanted to send some stuff out. It’s just sad to see a great guy

like that and a great baseball player who had a bright future ahead, go down like that."

Machado said that there has been no recent contact between the Orioles and his agent.

"No, not at all. It’s something that, I’m not worried about it. I’m trying to play baseball. I’m not

going to sit here and answer these questions because there have been no talks. And when there is,

you guys will probably be the first to know. To be honest, you might find out before me. I’m not

worried about it," Machado said.

NOTES: The Orioles signed outfielder Craig Gentry to a minor league deal with an invitation to

major league spring training. The 33-year-old Gentry has played eight seasons with Texas,

Oakland and the Los Angeles Angels and has a lifetime batting average of .261.

Gentry can play all three outfield positions, but most of his experience is in center field.

In his last two seasons, Gentry has played just 40 games in the majors, batting .120 for the

Athletics and .147 with the Angels. He has just four home runs in 457 major league games, but

stole more than 20 bases in both 2013 and 2014.

“I feel like my speed and defense can pretty much help a lot of teams. Plus, I knew a lot of guys

here. I’ve played with a lot of guys, I know a lot of the coaching staff, so it just seemed like a

great fit. They were interested and that late in the offseason you’re kind of scrambling around,”

Gentry said.

Gentry’s addition gives the Orioles 53 players in major league camp.

-J.J. Hardy’s bone test went well, Showalter said. If he continues to do well he could play around

March 10.

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/02/19/orioles-are-eager-to-get-started-forget-about-playoff-

loss/

Orioles Are Eager To Get Started, Forget About Playoff Loss

CBS Baltimore

February 19, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) — The Baltimore Orioles have been eager to get back to work and

forget about losing the wild-card game to the Toronto Blue Jays last October.

On Friday, they took another step in that process.

As Baltimore took the field for its first full-squad workout most of the prominent names were

present, except for shortstop J.J. Hardy, whose sore lower back has prevented him from working

out.

Hardy has had an MRI and CT-scan, but doesn’t seem to be worried.

“Not too concerned, just because I’ve dealt with this pretty much every year. I don’t think it’s a

big deal but spring training has started early this year so I feel like we got enough time to not

push it and get it right,” Hardy said.

Manager Buck Showalter was planning on playing Manny Machado at shortstop in early spring

games because Machado wants to be ready to play the position for the Dominican Republic in

next month’s World Baseball Classic.

Hardy may be ready not long after Machado leaves for the WBC.

“He wouldn’t have played before March 5 anyway,” Showalter said of Hardy. “Let me get this

last test before I start putting dates on it, but there’s plenty of time, plenty of time.”

Nearly all of the most prominent players return this season, but besides re-signing outfielder

Mark Trumbo to a three-year deal last month, Baltimore made two key moves. The Orioles

signed catcher Welington Castillo to replace Matt Wieters, who had caught for Baltimore since

2009 and is currently a free agent and traded for outfielder Seth Smith from Seattle.

Castillo, who hit .264 with 14 home runs and 68 RBIs for Arizona last season, was not offered a

contract by the Diamondbacks and signed a $6 million contract with a $7 million player option in

2018 with the Orioles in mid-December.

The 29-year-old catcher will also leave with Machado to play for the Dominican Republic in the

WBC.

Castillo said he some doubts about participating in the WBC because of trying to get used to the

Orioles.

“Honestly, I was a little bit in between because I know I’m going to a new team, new players,

new pitching staff. I’m going to have time to get to know them. At the same time, I want to

represent my country. It’s a really good experience (when) you go there,” Castillo said.

Smith, who was traded to Baltimore on Jan. 6 for right-handed pitcher Yovani Gallardo, hit .249

with 16 home runs and 63 RBIs for the Mariners in 2016.

“I’ve enjoyed watching the Orioles kind of do their thing for a while now and to be a part of it is

going to be fun,” Smith said.

Smith, who hit home runs in four consecutive games against Baltimore last season, is happy to

be a part of the team now.

“I didn’t check the box score daily, but you watch highlights and you see the fun things that

they’re able to do,” Smith said.

NOTE: RHP Chris Tillman, who Showalter has said on Tuesday wouldn’t make a fourth

consecutive opening day start because of a sore right shoulder, is happy with the progress he’s

made. “I want to do this right. No matter how long it takes, I want to get this behind me and not

rush back into it,” Tillman said.

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/02/19/orioles-machado-practices-at-shortstop-for-world-

classic/

Orioles’ Machado Practices At Shortstop For World Classic

CBS Baltimore

February 19, 2017

SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) — Before he leaves for the World Baseball Classic, Manny Machado is

making the most of his short time at Baltimore Orioles camp.

Machado, who was born in Miami, will play shortstop for the Dominican Republic in next

month’s WBC, and with the Orioles’ everyday shortstop J.J. Hardy injured, he’s getting to play

as much short as he wants before his March 5 departure. He estimates he’ll play six or seven

spring training games before the WBC.

“I’m probably going to be playing 162 this year,” Machado said. “Just monitoring it, don’t

exaggerate it, don’t over-do it. Just a matter of quality over quantity.”

In 2015, Machado played all 162 games, and he played 157 last season — missing four games

because of a suspension for brawling with Kansas City Royals pitcher Yordano Ventura — and

one because of the flu.

Baltimore will lose five major league players during the WBC. Machado and catcher Welington

Castillo will play for the Dominican Republic. Center fielder Adam Jones and right-handed

pitcher Mychal Givens are on Team USA, and second baseman Jonathan Schoop will play for

the Netherlands.

“Buck came up to us and set up a nice little program of what games we want to play in and what

games we want to play before,” Machado said. “You also don’t want to go in and play too many

games early on and get tired. I know we’re going to play quite a few games in the Classic.”

Machado, a three-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner at third base, could play other

positions in the world classic, especially because teammate and Texas Rangers third baseman

Adrian Beltre will miss at least the opening round with a left calf strain.

“I told them I’ll play whatever,” Machado said. “I really didn’t say one position. I’ll play short.

I’ll play third. I told them I’ll play first, it don’t matter. I just want to go out there and represent

the country and represent my family in the right way.”

Last June, Machado charged the mound when Ventura threw at him. He had harsh words that

night for the right-hander, but after Ventura was killed in a car crash in the Dominican Republic

on Jan. 22, Machado reached out to Ventura’s family.

“I know we had our altercations on the field, but you know what, you leave stuff on the field,”

Machado said. “I was just trying to reach out to the family and see if they needed anything. It’s

just sad to see a great guy like that and a great baseball player who had a bright future ahead go

down like that.”

Two seasons removed from free agency, the 24-year-old Machado could be one of the most

highly sought players. That’s not currently on his mind.

“It’s something that I’m not worried about it,” Machado said. “I’m trying to play baseball. I’m

not going to sit here and answer these questions because there have been no talks.”

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/02/19/orioles-acquire-vidal-nuno-from-dodgers/

Orioles Acquire Vidal Nuño From Dodgers

CBS Baltimore

February 19, 2017

BALTIMORE (WJZ) — The Baltimore Orioles traded minor league right-hander Ryan

Moseley for left-handed reliever Vidal Nuño with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

To make 40-man roster space for Nuño, the Orioles designated left-hander T.J. McFarland for

assignment.

The addition of Nuño and the move to designate McFarland keeps the Orioles’ spring training

roster at 54 players.

http://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2017/02/21/spring-training-primer-intrasquads-start-nuno-

expected-andino-movies-no/

Spring Training Primer: Intrasquads start; Nuno expected;

‘Andino at the Movies’ no more

By Rich Dubroff / BaltimoreBaseball.com

February 21, 2017

What’s happening: Right-handers Tyler Wilson (pictured above) and Mike Wright combined

for 25 starts and 42 appearances for the Orioles in 2016. Neither did enough to really separate

himself from the pack going into this year. But they’ll get the first cracks on the mound this

spring as they’ve been tabbed to start today’s initial Orioles’ intrasquad game, which begins

at 1:05 p.m. at Ed Smith Stadium.

Besides Wilson and Wright, Logan Verrett, Zach Stewart, Jason Garcia, Jayson Aquino, Joe

Gunkel, Gabriel Ynoa, Donnie Hart, Oliver Drake, Parker Bridwell and Richard Rodriguez are

also scheduled to pitch today.

The Orioles also will play an intrasquad game Wednesday and, like today’s, it will not be open

to the public. Wednesday’s pitchers have not been announced, but right-hander Logan Ondrusek

(ankle) will be held out of both games.

What’s happened: Left-hander Vidal Nuno, acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday

for minor league reliever Ryan Moseley, is expected to report to camp Wednesday.

Manager Buck Showalter said that Nuno could both start and relieve.

“That’s one of the attractions of him. [He’s a] starter, reliever, long reliever, [has] options,”

Showalter said. “We got caught in some tough situations last year where we couldn’t manipulate

and maneuver.”

Nuno is expected to challenge for a bullpen spot along Wilson, Wright and Verrett. All four have

options. T.J. McFarland, who was designated for assignment to make room for Nuno on the 40-

man roster, is out of options.

What they’re saying: “I ain’t focused on no movies this year. I’m focused on catching the ball.

Ain’t going to see no ‘Andino at the Movies.’ If they ask me, I’m focusing on catching the ball,

putting a bunt down or something.” — Robert Andino, trying to make the Orioles as a non-roster

infielder, on not bringing back his popular, in-game, film-review feature that was shown on the

Camden Yards scoreboard.

What’s the number? 9 — That’s how many outfielders are on the Orioles’ 40-man roster. And

that doesn’t include any non-roster invitees such as Michael Bourn, signed to a minor-league

deal Monday, or Craig Gentry, who signed a minor-league deal Saturday.

http://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2017/02/20/thoughts-re-signing-bourn-affects-leadoff-spot-

outfield-rickard-jones/

Thoughts on re-signing Bourn and how it affects leadoff

spot, outfield, Rickard, Jones

By Dan Connolly / BaltimoreBaseball.com

February 21, 2017

It took a little longer than anticipated.

And it surely wasn’t the exact deal he was looking for, but outfielder Michael Bourn is back with

the Orioles – at least for the spring.

The 34-year-old veteran signed a minor-league deal Monday with an invite to Orioles’ camp. His

contract will be worth $2 million if he ends up making the roster.

Based on his skill set and his production in 2016 during his brief stint with the Orioles, you’d

think he would make the Opening Day roster with little trouble. That’s the perception given by

executive vice president Dan Duquette’s text Monday night: “Michael Bourn’s all-around play

helped the club earn a 2016 playoff spot and (the) O’s are glad to have him back for 2017.”

Bourn immediately becomes one of the best outfield defenders on the club and its most

prototypical option at leadoff, a spot he’s filled 890 times in 1,143 career starts.

Bourn is a career .266 hitter with a .329 on-base percentage and .357 slugging percentage in 11

seasons. Last year, after being acquired in an Aug. 31 deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks for

minor league outfielder Jason Heinrich, Bourn slashed .283/.358/.435 in 28 games with the

Orioles.

In his career, the speedy, left-handed-hitting Bourn fares better against right-handers than

southpaws (.270/.337/.366 in 3,891 plate appearances vs. .254/.310/.334 in 1,432 plate

appearances). But he had reverse splits in 2016 with the Diamondbacks and Orioles; he slashed

.240/.297/.351 in 338 plate appearances versus right-handers and .357/.387/.457 in just 75 plate

appearances against lefties.

Given his age, Bourn’s not going to play every day. But, based on his track record, he should be

a contributor and see a decent amount of playing time.

Here are my thoughts on the deal, which was first reported by MASNSports.com (signed) and

FanRag Sports (financial terms):

Bourn a boon for slow O’s lineup

Let’s face it, the Orioles needed speed and defense. Those were the two ingredients missing from

this 2017 lineup. And though the Orioles may have had both in Joey Rickard and newly signed

Craig Gentry, Bourn has fewer red flags.

He’s not an on-base machine, but he did have a .358 OBP in his limited time with the Orioles.

And though he had one memorable misplay in right field the American League Wild Card game,

he can defend at any outfield position.

Then there is his speed. He has 341 career stolen bases and has swiped double digits in every full

season in his career. He was 15-for-20 last year, including 2-for-2 with the Orioles. Those two

stolen bases in one month put him into a second-place tie with three other Orioles. Seriously.

Rickard led the sloth-like O’s with four stolen bases, and he missed most of the second half.

Bad news for Rickard?

Bourn’s signing, coupled with that of Gentry’s on Saturday, gives the Orioles a tremendously

crowded outfield. They have nine outfielders on the 40-man roster – including two Rule 5 picks

– and five more that have received non-roster invites to spring.

Right now, you have to assume Hyun Soo Kim, Adam Jones, Seth Smith and Mark Trumbo have

made the team. So, that leaves one outfielder – two if they take 12 pitchers north – for the 25-

man roster. Bourn could start the season in the minors since he is on a minor-league deal. But

once his contract is purchased by the big-league club, he can’t come off the roster without going

through waivers (or being outright released).

The club would love to keep at least one of their Rule 5 outfielders – Aneury Tavarez or

Anthony Santander – but that means a clogged roster spot all season.

Therefore, because Rickard has minor-league options remaining and is coming back from injury,

he could be the odd man out to start the season.

Although somewhat unfair, it probably wouldn’t be a terrible thing for the 25-year-old’s

development. He could get more minor-league experience and be great insurance when/if needed

during the season.

Because Rickard is right-handed and Bourn is left-handed, there is a scenario both could be kept,

but then the Rule 5 guys would have to be punted and the pitching staff would be limited to 12

pitchers – which might be doable if Chris Tillman begins the season on the disabled list and

manager Buck Showalter can juggle his staff to accommodate a couple early-season spot starts.

Heck, with a little creativity, the Orioles potentially could survive a month with 11 pitchers,

though that seems unlikely.

By the way, Bourn’s expected presence also delivered another body blow to first baseman/DH

Trey Mancini’s chances of making the Opening Day roster.

Good news for Jones?

Orioles center fielder Adam Jones verbalized his desire for the team to add more defensive-

minded outfielders before the season began. He got his wish in Bourn and the 32-year-old, right-

handed-hitting Gentry, who appears to be a real long shot to stick in the big leagues initially, but

he also could be good insurance at Triple-A Norfolk.

Both Bourn and Gentry can play center field (as can Rickard), and that’s big because Jones, who

turns 32 in August, needs more rest this year. He plays so hard, and has had so few good

defenders alongside him recently that all the running and pounding is taking a toll on his legs.

Having Bourn available to spell Jones, even once a week, should make Jones a better player

throughout the entire season. And the Orioles wouldn’t be jeopardizing their defensive alignment

when Bourn is filling in.

And, when Bourn is in the lineup, Jones won’t have to hit leadoff, something Showalter was

hoping to avoid this year.

Lefty logjam conundrum

Kim and Smith are corner outfielders who mash right-handed pitching. Trumbo is going to play

nearly every day at DH or occasionally in right field or first base. So where does that leave

Bourn, a natural lefty, against right-handers?

I don’t know the answer to that yet. But injuries do occur. Showalter wants to give more guys

days off in 2017. And you can’t have too many talented players on your roster.

Bottom line I wouldn’t have endorsed a major financial investment for a 34-year-old whose game is so

dependent on healthy legs. But on a minor-league deal that’ll cost just $2 million in the majors

for a guy who has a track record and fits seamlessly into the clubhouse, it’s another Duquette,

February no-brainer.

http://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2017/02/20/spring-training-primer-ondruseks-ankle-

intrasquad-info-andinos-absence-small-camp/

Spring Training Primer: Ondrusek’s ankle, intrasquad info,

Andino’s absence, small camp

By Rich Dubroff / BaltimoreBaseball.com

February 20, 2017

What’s happening: The Orioles are playing two intrasquad games — Tuesday and Wednesday

— this week. Their first Grapefruit League game is Friday at Lakeland, Fla., against the Detroit

Tigers.

Manager Buck Showalter hasn’t announced who’ll be pitching versus the Tigers, but anticipates

that nearly everyone will pitch in the two intrasquad games. Right-handers Tyler Wilson and

Mike Wright will start Tuesday’s contest.

What’s happened: RHP Logan Ondrusek (pictured above) has a right ankle injury that occurred

in a collision during drills Saturday. Ondrusek’s ankle is taped, and he hopes to miss just a few

days. He’s competing for a long-relief role.

“It’s been a while since I’ve done it this bad, but it’s nothing I haven’t done before. I’m older

now than what I used to be, so it’s going to take a day or two extra. We also have to be smart

because it’s not even March yet, and the goal is to be ready for Opening Day — and then some,”

Ondrusek said.

What’s up with: Robert Andino, who’s trying to make the Orioles as a non-roster infielder, left

camp to deal with a family issue, and the team isn’t sure when he’ll return.

What they’re saying: “Today he wanted to play in both intrasquad games. I thought that was

kind of revealing. A lot of things that we knew were going to be a challenge for him that he

overcame that aren’t this year. I think it bodes well for his potential. I think he’s got another level

he can go to,” Showalter on South Korean outfielder Hyun Soo Kim, who is entering his second

major league season.

What’s the number? 54. That’s how many players the Orioles have in big league camp, which

Showalter says is the fewest in the majors.

What’s happening: The Orioles are playing two intrasquad games — Tuesday and Wednesday

— this week. Their first Grapefruit League game is Friday at Lakeland, Fla., against the Detroit

Tigers.

Manager Buck Showalter hasn’t announced who’ll be pitching versus the Tigers, but anticipates

that nearly everyone will pitch in the two intrasquad games. Right-handers Tyler Wilson and

Mike Wright will start Tuesday’s contest.

What’s happened: RHP Logan Ondrusek (pictured above) has a right ankle injury that occurred

in a collision during drills Saturday. Ondrusek’s ankle is taped, and he hopes to miss just a few

days. He’s competing for a long-relief role.

“It’s been a while since I’ve done it this bad, but it’s nothing I haven’t done before. I’m older

now than what I used to be, so it’s going to take a day or two extra. We also have to be smart

because it’s not even March yet, and the goal is to be ready for Opening Day — and then some,”

Ondrusek said.

What’s up with: Robert Andino, who’s trying to make the Orioles as a non-roster infielder, left

camp to deal with a family issue, and the team isn’t sure when he’ll return.

What they’re saying: “Today he wanted to play in both intrasquad games. I thought that was

kind of revealing. A lot of things that we knew were going to be a challenge for him that he

overcame that aren’t this year. I think it bodes well for his potential. I think he’s got another level

he can go to,” Showalter on South Korean outfielder Hyun Soo Kim, who is entering his second

major league season.

What’s the number? 54. That’s how many players the Orioles have in big league camp, which

Showalter says is the fewest in the majors.

http://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2017/02/19/thoughts-orioles-acquring-vidal-nuno-

designating-t-j-mcfarland/

Some thoughts on Orioles acquring Vidal Nuno and

designating T.J. McFarland

By Dan Connolly / BaltimoreBaseball.com

February 19, 2017

The Orioles need a versatile, left-handed reliever in 2017 who can get lefty hitters out, but also

could pitch multiple innings.

That’s what they believed they received Sunday evening when they dealt away right-handed

minor leaguer Ryan Moseley to the Los Angeles Dodgers for left-handed reliever Vidal Nuno, a

move first reported by The Baltimore Sun.

“Our scouts like how Nuno competes in the American League and old-school baseball people

will appreciate how he works fast, throws strikes and changes speeds,” Orioles executive vice

president Dan Duquette said. “We look forward to his contributions to the 2017 club.”

To make room for Nuno on the 40-man roster, the Orioles designated lefty T.J. McFarland for

assignment.

Here’s why the move to acquire the 29-year-old Nuno makes sense: One, he’s tremendously versatile. In his first four seasons in the majors, he made 42 starts and 84

relief appearances. He’s better as a reliever (3.14 ERA) than as a starter (4.40 ERA), and he

should remain in the bullpen with the Orioles. Relief appears to be his best role; he was 1-1 with

a 3.53 ERA in 55 games for the Seattle Mariners in 2016. He also has a minor-league option

remaining, which is a plus for a team that loves to shuttle its relievers from the minors to the

majors to keep everyone healthy and rested.

Two, Nuno is experienced. This will be his fifth major-league season and his sixth big league

organization, though he never played for the Dodgers – they acquired him this offseason from

Seattle in a trade for catcher Carlos Ruiz – or for the Cleveland Indians, the club that selected

him in the 48th round of the 2009 draft.

Nuno made his big-league debut in 2013 with the New York Yankees, spending parts of two

seasons in the Bronx. He posted a 4.78 ERA in 22 games (17 starts) before being traded to the

Arizona Diamondbacks for Brandon McCarthy in 2014. So, Nuno isn’t a stranger to the AL East.

(Coincidentally, Nuno also was part of the 2015 trade between Seattle and Arizona that included

Orioles slugger Mark Trumbo and new catcher Welington Castillo).

Third, he takes the ball, and possesses a short memory. He’s the kind of a guy that can sit for

days and then deliver a solid performance – he has a 1.69 ERA in 22 relief appearances in which

he had four or more days of rest. But he’s also fine on back-to-back days – he has posted a 2.52

ERA in 31 appearances in which he has had no or one day’s rest.

Fourth, the Orioles didn’t give up much – at least at this point. Moseley, 22, was an eighth-round

pick last year out of Texas Tech and pitched 12 games in relief at Short-A Aberdeen, compiling a

3.20 ERA. Maybe he’ll be a major-league reliever one day, but Nuno can help the team

now. Duquette once again found a legitimate major leaguer that didn’t have a spot on his current

team. The Dodgers needed room on their 40-man roster for newly signed outfielder Franklin

Gutierrez, and Nuno was the odd man out. Also, Nuno isn’t expensive if he succeeds; he’s owed

$1.125 million in 2017 and can’t be a free agent until after the 2019 season.

Most important, the Orioles didn’t have a lefty reliever in the bullpen besides rookie Donnie Hart

and closer Zach Britton. Hart did an excellent job last year, but at this point in his career he’s

best facing mostly lefties. McFarland was competing for the long-man job, but he had a

disastrous, injury-riddled 2016 in which he posted a 6.93 ERA in 16 appearances. So, the Orioles

filled the void with a guy who had success in the role last year.

Here’s why this move may not make sense: Nuno is a flyball pitcher. He relies on a 90-mph fastball, a good slider and a changeup, but a lot

of times those pitches go flying – 42 percent of all contact made against Nuno in his career have

been flyballs, according to FanGraphs. And some of those end up going over the fence. He’s

allowed 53 homers in 329 1/3 innings in his career. That’s not a good thing for someone pitching

half his games at Camden Yards.

The other negative of the deal – or at least a potential by-product – is that the club could lose

McFarland, who is one of manager Buck Showalter’s trusted soldiers and a favorite among the

players. The 27-year-old McFarland, when he is going well, is a groundball machine who can

give the club important bridge innings. He has done that in the past, most notably in 2014 when

he had a 2.76 ERA in 37 games.

The problem is McFarland wasn’t that guy last year or for much of 2015, and he is out of

options, which means he’d have to stick on the club this season or potentially be lost to waivers

anyway. Since his value has taken a hit and he can’t be optioned, it’s very possible McFarland

clears waivers and remains with the Orioles. So, he might end up at Norfolk attempting to get

things turned around.

Bottom line: With the exception of Nuno being a flyball pitcher, there is little here not to like.

Nuno serves a need, is a major-league pitcher and didn’t cost anything.

http://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2017/02/18/orioles-april-schedule-help-mitigate-chris-

tillmans-potential-absence-rotation/

Orioles’ April schedule could help mitigate Chris Tillman’s

potential absence from rotation

By Paul Folkemer / BaltimoreBaseball.com

February 20, 2017

Let’s get the obvious statement out of the way first: There’s never a good time to lose your No. 1

starter. That said, the Orioles’ April schedule could work to their advantage when it comes to

filling the shoes of sidelined ace Chris Tillman.

The opening month is littered with off days, which can allow the O’s to map out their rotation

with a short staff. As manager Buck Showalter has frequently mentioned, the Orioles don’t need

a fifth starter until April 15, the tenth game of the regular season.

In fact, the favorable spread of off days requires the club to use a fifth starter only twice in the

month of April, spanning the first 23 games of the year.

So, if the Orioles aren’t able to pick up an extra starter on the now-thin free agent market, they’re

not necessarily doomed. Even if Tillman isn’t ready until the end of April, the club can

potentially soldier through the month with its four, currently healthy starters, while needing just a

pair of spot starts along the way.

Expect Showalter and Dan Duquette to take full advantage of the Orioles’ roster flexibility

during that stretch. The shuttle between Baltimore and Norfolk — and sometimes Bowie —

could be churning on overdrive in April as they shuffle spot starters, long relievers and extra

bench players on and off the roster as needed.

Here’s one example of how it could play out:

When the Orioles set their Opening Day roster for April 3, they could include just four starters

— Kevin Gausman, Dylan Bundy, Ubaldo Jimenez and Wade Miley — and seven relievers. That

would make room for a 14th position player, which could help Rule 5 pick Aneury Tavarez’s

chances of making the club.

On April 15, the Orioles would need to make a roster move — likely dispatching a bench player

— to add a starter. They could call on one of Mike Wright, Tyler Wilson, Logan Verrett or

Gabriel Ynoa to start that day. All four have options, so whichever one they choose, he could be

sent right back to the minors after the game in exchange for another bench player or reliever.

The Orioles would need a spot starter one week later, April 22. Again, they could call on one of

the minor-league arms to fill in for the outing, then return him to the minors afterwards and add a

reinforcement for the bench or bullpen.

From there, they have another 10 days until they need a fifth starter again May 2. By that time,

Tillman ideally will be ready to return (if he hasn’t already), and the rotation will be back at full

strength.

Granted, we’re still a month and a half away from the start of the regular season, so the Orioles

shouldn’t etch any plans into stone just yet. They could add a veteran starting pitcher such as

Jorge De La Rosa or Doug Fister and stick with a conventional five-man rotation during

Tillman’s absence.

Or Tillman — who told reporters this week that his shoulder is starting to feel much better —

could be healthy and ready to pitch by early April. Or one of the Orioles’ other four starters

could get hurt before Opening Day, throwing the rotation into further chaos.

Still, as things stand now, the club has a way to cover its bases for up to a month while Tillman

is on the shelf — if it gets a little bit creative.

http://thesportsquotient.com/mlb/2017/2/21/baltimore-orioles-sign-michael-bourn-to-minor-

league-deal

Baltimore Orioles Sign Michael Bourn To Minor-League

Deal

By Jacob Moore / The Sports Quotient

February 21, 2017

The Baltimore Orioles have agreed to a deal to bring back outfielder Michael Bourn. It is a

minor-league contract with an invite to Spring Training. If Bourn makes it back to the Major

League, he will earn $2-million. He also has the option to opt-out of the contract if he is not

added to the Orioles 40-man roster by late March.

Bourn started the 2016 season with Arizona before being traded to Baltimore in August. He

helped the Orioles reach the playoffs in a late-September run, while batting .283 with an on-base

percentage of .358. The 34-year-old’s most productive season was in 2011 with Houston and

Atlanta, where he batted .294 with 61 stolen bases.

It will be interesting to see if Bourn will crack the Orioles Opening Day roster, as he would

continue to add outfield depth and a speedy left-handed bat.

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/02/21/orioles-re-sign-michael-bourn-to-minor-league-

contract/

Orioles Re-Sign Michael Bourn To Minor-League Contract

CBS Baltimore

February 21, 2017

BALTIMORE (WJZ) — The Baltimore Orioles continue to add veteran presence to the roster.

The Orioles re-signed Michael Bourn to a minor-league deal on Monday night with an invitation

to Spring Training.

Bourn made 11 starts with the Orioles, nine of them in right field after the Orioles made Mark

Trumbo the DH in September. In 24 games with the Orioles in 2016, Bourn hit .283/.358/.435

with two homers, eight RBI and two stolen bases.

Bourn was originally acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks last August.

http://www.abc2news.com/sports/orioles-reach-agreement-with-bourn#

Orioles reach agreement with Bourn

ABC2 WMAR

February 21, 2017

The Baltimore Orioles welcome another player to spring training.

Outfielder Michael Bourn reached an agreement with the team. Part of the agreement includes an

invite to spring training in Sarasota. If he makes the roster, Bourn will make $2 million this year.

The 34-year-old can opt out of the deal if he is not added to the 40-man roster.

Bourn played in 24 games for the O's last season after coming over from Arizona.

http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/always-looking-for-value-dan-duquette-adds-two-veterans-

to-orioles-roster/

Always looking for value, Dan Duquette adds two veterans

to Orioles roster

R.J. Anderson / CBSSports.com

February 21, 2017

Baltimore Orioles general manager Dan Duquette has a reputation -- for being hard to work with,

sure, but also for finding value late in unexpected forms. Hence the Nelson Cruz signing from a

few years ago; hence trading for Mark Trumbo last winter; hence unearthing Brad Brach; and so

on. It makes sense, then, that Duquette has opted to take a few more hacks at excavating his

latest gem before spring training gets underway.

On Sunday, Duquette traded a minor-league reliever to the Los Angeles Dodgers for left-handed

pitcher Vidal Nuno. Duquette followed up that trade Monday by signing veteran

outfielder Michael Bourn to a minor-league contract. Neither move is going to change the

outlook of the Orioles’ season, but both are the kind of low-frills deals Duquette excels at.

Nuno, for his part, has better statistics than you’d expect. Over 216 appearances in the majors,

he’s posted a 97 ERA+ and showed impressive control. Last season was his finest yet, as he

managed a 115 ERA+ and 4.64 strikeout-to-walk ratio while appearing in a career-best 55 games

for the Seattle Mariners. Seattle was hardly impressed, and moved him early in the winter to the

Los Angeles Dodgers for catcher Carlos Ruiz.

The reason Nuno was available for cheap now -- and the reason he’s on his fifth team since the

start of 2014 -- is he doesn’t have prototypical big-league stuff. He pitches off his mid-80s slider,

and his fastball often clocks in below 90 mph. As a result, Nuno struggles to miss bats and

barrels alike -- he’s seemingly a threat to give up as many home runs as walks each year. All the

same, Nuno is a strike-throwing southpaw who should represent an upgrade over T.J.

McFarland.

Bourn’s utility is perhaps even more limited than Nuno’s. A capable leadoff hitter and Gold

Glove-caliber center fielder during his prime, he’s had a rough few seasons dealing with the

effects of aging and injury. Save for a 24-game stint last season with the O’s, Bourn has not

managed an OPS+ over 90 since 2013. Defensively, he’s a better fit in a corner, too -- but, to his

credit, he’s still an effective basestealer, as he swiped 15 bags on 20 tries in 2016. He figures to

ride Triple-A buses until the O’s need another reserve outfielder because of injury or poor play --

or until September, when Buck Showalter wants a veteran pinch-runner off the bench.

The O’s aren’t getting a gamechanger in Nuno or Bourn. They are, however, adding some depth

-- and perhaps a marginal upgrade or two over the incumbents. Those kinds of moves aren’t sexy

-- they don’t win pennants. But they can help showcase a GM’s savvy over time. We’ll see if

Duquette looks slightly smarter in six months than he does now as a result of either move.

http://www.snntv.com/2017/02/17/orioles-players-visit-brookside-health-fitness-challenge/

Orioles players visit Brookside for Health and Fitness

Challenge

By Ben Bobick / SNN News

February 17, 2017

SARASOTA COUNTY – Students at Brookside Middle School had some special visitors Friday

afternoon, but, they had to work for it.

“Sometimes kids need a break from the classroom and if you can teach them physical activity

early, it sticks with them for life,” says Orioles pitcher Mike Wright.

In partnership with Sarasota Memorial and Students Working Against Tobacco the second year

of the Orioles Health and Fitness Challenge is a success. More than 4,000 students throughout

Sarasota County participate.

“I think this will help you in high school because it basically already teaches you about health

and participating in activities,” says 6th grade student Kara.

“Sometimes when I participate in more activities, I get more involved. I want to run more and be

more active in sports,” says 6th grade student Audrey.

And that’s exactly what the five–week program is about. Teaching kids the importance of

physical fitness, healthy eating and tobacco–free living.

“Now’s the time also to start making those good habits. So these kids have been doing exercise,

watching their nutrition, for everyday over the last month. They started a program. They started

making those changes. Now if we can just sustain it, it would be meaningful,” says Sarasota

Memorial Pulmonologist Dr. Kirk Voelker.

It’s not every day some big league ball players and of course, mascot, come hang out at school

for a day.

“Obviously, physical activity is what we do for a living so if we can encourage kids to do that

from an early age I think it’s great that we can be a part of the community down here as well,”

says Orioles pitcher Tyler Wilson.

The Orioles may spend a majority of their time in Baltimore but Sarasota is their home too and

there’s no doubt about the impact they make.

“We try to do that 365 days and we try to bring our resources to it. This is just another example.

This is where we can take our brands and go into the school system, be part of the curriculum

and we’re happy to do it,” says Orioles Executive Vice President John Angelos.

http://www.mysuncoast.com/news/local/spring-training-is-back-with-a-little-extra-

security/article_ddf58406-f569-11e6-a13f-0311781f87e7.html

Spring Training is back, with a little extra security

By Adam Cellini / WWSB (ABC)

February 18, 2017

The full Orioles roster reuniting in Sarasota Friday, the first time since a walk-off home run

ended their 2016 campaign.

Closer Zach Britton, however, is focusing on the positives.

"We were pretty dang good. We were in first place for 111 days, that's a long time," says Britton,

who let the American League in saves last year with 47. "Obviously we have the talent, it's just a

matter of maybe shortening up those bad times."

That optimism rubbing off on some of the fans as well, many relieved Mark Trumbo will be

around for three more years after a new contract this offseason.

Others just happy to be in Sarasota for the first time.

"It's a good time just to be able to see all the players up close and personal," says Baltimore

native Coral Hickman-Rutledge.

"It's exciting, it's like baseball season is back," adds Kyle Thoman of Chester County,

Pennsylvania.

Perhaps not as exciting, an extra step between scanning your ticket and finding your seat this

spring training. Both the Orioles and Pirates will have fans walk through metal detectors on their

way into games. A move the Orioles say was mandated by the league.

"We're glad to see MLB do it," says Orioles Executive Vice-President John Angelos. "It'll just be

a little more protection of what is already a very safe, comfortable, and secure environment."

In 2014, the MLB required all big league stadiums to adopt metal detectors by 2015. Angelos

says they take it one step further at Camden Yards with law enforcement at their gates instead of

private security.

"We hire police officers in uniform," says Angelos. "Costs more, but it's a great investment in the

safety of the facility, and the experience and security of our fans."

Last year, the Orioles made the unprecedented decision to bar fans from a game during the

Baltimore riots and ensuing city-wide curfew after Freddie Gray's death.

This recent change may affect Thoman the most though, as he will have to bring a wife and four

young kids through those metal detectors with him this spring. Plus, he's on crutches with an

injury to his foot.

"It might be a little bit of a hassle," he says. "But the experience is well worth it I think. For a

first timer at least."

http://www.heraldtribune.com/sports/20170217/orioles-all-hands-on-deck-for-davis

ORIOLES: All hands on deck for Davis

By Doug Fernandes / Sarasota Herald-Tribune

February 17, 2017

SARASOTA

Chris Davis did not specify the game. What the Oriole first baseman remembers most vividly are

the consequences.

"It was kind of an eye-opener for me because I hadn't realized the impact that it really had on

me," he said Friday before Baltimore's first full-squad workout of spring training at the City of

Sarasota Sports Complex.

In hindsight, Davis doesn't dive into second base during that April game. In hindsight, he slides

feet first, sparing him an injury to his left thumb that plagued him the rest of the 2016 season.

It didn't force the 30-year-old from the lineup. Davis played in 157 games, second most in his

career. The power was still there as well, though his 38 home runs were nine off his 2015 total.

But Davis' strikeouts increased, while his RBI (84), average (.221) and OPS (.792) all declined.

In the first year of a seven-year, $161-million contract, he persevered with the injury, but it never

allowed Davis any measure of comfort.

After hitting .237 in the first half, he faded to .200 in the second, with 26 RBI. But an offseason

of rest helped contribute to a relaxed Davis entering camp.

"I think the biggest thing was really the rest and the time off and not having the physical contact

and the beating that I did every day when I was swinging and taking balls at first," he said.

"Really, after the first three or four weeks, the swelling went completely away and I haven't had

anything, any issues or swelling since I started hitting. So I think the biggest thing is just rest

and, obviously, I didn't have time to rest during the season last year."

The role hands play in the mechanics of hitting a baseball often gets overlooked, but Davis's

thumb injury drove home this importance.

http://www.heraldtribune.com/sports/20170218/springfest-os-warming-up-for-spring-training

Sarasota SpringFest gets fans primed for baseball

By Doug Fernandes / Sarasota Herald-Tribune

February 18, 2017

SARASOTA

From the perspective of the Baltimore Orioles, Stanley and Linda Machimson embody spring

training. Embody baseball.

Most fans seemed to navigate the City of Sarasota Sports Complex with a certain level of

familiarity. The O's held their second annual Sarasota SpringFest on Saturday.

There were games for the kids, while mom and dad could wander over to the fields behind Ed

Smith Stadium to watch the team practice.

Stanley and Linda wanted to, but weren't exactly sure of the route. They stopped to ask a stadium

worker the best place to get autographs. He directed them, starting with a "right" out the parking

lot, to the gate where Oriole players enter the complex.

Clearly, the Machimsons loved baseball, and loved The Ed. Call the latter a spring fling. For 35

years, the couple lived in Baltimore. A New Jersey transplant, Stanley remained loyal to his

Yankees.

As Linda did her O's. But when the opportunity presented itself to move to Florida, do you think

the couple relocated to Tampa, the spring home of the pinstripers?

Then you don't know Stanley. Or Linda.

"We wanted to move to Florida," he said, "and she wanted to be near the Orioles."

"If I'm moving to Florida," Linda said, "I'm going to be where the Orioles are." In October,

Sarasota County welcomed the Machimsons.

Not just O's fans, Saturday's SpringFest welcomed followers of every hardball persuasion.

Hoping to mimic the success of its Oriole FanFest, held last month in Baltimore and presented

annually by Visit Sarasota County, the organization started last year SpringFest.

"It's so successful up there," said Dave Rovine, vice president of Orioles-Sarasota. "The goal is

to try and create something very similar in Sarasota."

Saturday's rain held out long enough for the estimated 1,500 who attended a chance to get their

fill of everything Oriole. And for those with a hunger, a bite of Baltimore.

Nick Minadakis, owner of the Jimmy's Famous Seafood food truck, had 200 crab cakes ready,

each filled with jumbo lump and lump. "Anybody that tastes the crab cake, loves it," he said.

Minadakis' "Crabby Patty," a hamburger topped with crab meat and sauce, proved a big hit.

Several feet away, Ben Laffey of the 'Merica food truck, offered more traditional ballpark fare —

hot dogs, hamburgers and fries.

The guy running the baseball speed pitch game said the top throw was 71 mph. The nice woman

in the ticket office said sales were brisk. The Orioles know they've already captured the hard-

core fan. But events like SpringFest can get the casual follower excited.

That wasn't 12-year-old Nick Skiber, gripping intently the plastic bat in his hands. In front of

him, a plastic ball danced, suspended on a column of air.

While his dad, Kevin, watched from behind, Nick took a couple mighty cuts. He made contact,

but perhaps the jersey he wore somehow prevented a more decisive hit.

That of the Detroit Tigers. The Skiber clan was visiting from Michigan.

Not Oriole fans. But baseball.

The event ended with a Q&A with Baltimore catcher Caleb Joseph. He said the O's goal this

season is to celebrate on the hill. The mound. A World Series title.

The crowd cheered. Another reason?

Baltimore's first game at Ed Smith is Sunday.

http://www.heraldtribune.com/sports/20170218/baltimore-orioles-2017-spring-training-preview

Long-ball hitting Orioles will need their starting rotation to

step up

By Doug Fernandes / Sarasota Herald-Tribune

February 18, 2017

2016 REVIEW

■ After ending the 2015 season with an 81-81 record and in third place in the American League

East, the Orioles won eight more games in '16 to finish 89-73, good for second. Baltimore

advanced to the AL wild-card game against the Blue Jays, where the Orioles lost, 5-3.

Baltimore's 253 home runs led the AL, while it finished second in slugging and total bases and

third in OPS. But the O's pitching staff had a 4.22 ERA, 10th in the AL, and a 1.364 WHIP.

2017 OUTLOOK

■ It can be assumed the Orioles will again hit. They led the AL in homers the last four years, and

with Mark Trumbo returning, Baltimore will be the favorite to make it five straight. The team

should catch the ball, and its bullpen remains a strength, so it will come down to the starting

rotation. Chris Tillman will be the ace, but the Orioles traded Yovani Gallardo in the offseason

and need continued development from Kevin Gausman and Dylan Bundy.

5 QUESTIONS

1. What will be the makeup of the team's starting rotation? Barring an acquisition in spring

training, the O's will open the season with much of the same staff that closed 2016, the

exception being right-hander Yovani Gallardo, who was traded in January to the

Mariners for outfielder Seth Smith. Chris Tillman, the club leader with 16 wins, returns

to anchor the rotation. Behind him will fall Kevin Gausman (9-12) and Dylan Bundy (10-

6). The O's need both to take major steps forward this season. The remaining starters will

come from the group that includes Ubaldo Jimenez (8-12), who had a 3-1 record and 2.31

ERA in September and October; Wade Miley, who had a 6.17 ERA in 11 starts for the

O's after coming over in a trade with the Mariners; and Tyler Wilson (4-6) and Mike

Wright (3-4), who may also get looks.

2. Where does Seth Smith fit into the lineup? The Orioles got the 34-year-old left-handed

hitting outfielder to probably platoon with Joey Rickard in right field. Smith hit .249 in

137 games last season for the Mariners, with 16 homers and 63 RBI. In 10 big-league

seasons, he's hit 113 home runs, with a high of 17 for the Rockies in 2010. A platoon

with Rickard seems likely, given Smith's .202 career average against lefties.

3. Who will replace Matt Wieters at catcher? The Orioles didn't extend a $17.2 million

qualifying offer to their veteran catcher, making him a free agent. In January Baltimore

filled that void by signing free-agent Welington Castillo to one-year contract with a

player option for a second. The soon-to-be 30-year-old hit .264 for Arizona last season,

with 14 homers and 68 RBI. In his career, Castillo has thrown out 31 percent of would-be

base stealers. He will be keeping the catching seat warm for O's prospect Chance Sisco.

4. What can Manny Machado do for an encore? It will be tough, but will anyone doubt the

ability of the 24-year-old to top his career marks last season of 37 homers, 96 RBI, .294

average and .876 OPS? An All-Star for the third time in five years, Machado finished

third in the AL in total bases, sixth in hits, seventh in WAR and eighth in doubles. And

when shortstop J.J. Hardy went down in May with a hairline fracture in his left foot,

Machado slid over from third base to man the position. Machado enters the season in the

last year of a contract that will pay him $11.5 million. The Orioles may have to break

many banks to retain him.

5. Will the team's bullpen be lights out again? With questions surrounding the rotation, the

unit had better. It starts from the back, with closer Zach Britton, whose 47 saves led the

AL. Righties Brad Brach (10-4, 2.04 ERA) and Mychal Givens (8-2, 3:13), who

combined to throw nearly 154 innings last season, return in set-up roles. Vance Worley

(3.53) provides the option to start and relieve, and lefty Donnie Hart came up from

Double-A and allowed 12 hits and one earned run (0.49 ERA) in 18.1 innings. The O's

are counting on a bounce-back season from Darren O'Day, plagued last season by

hamstring and shoulder injuries.

5 CAN'T-MISS GAMES AT ED SMITH STADIUM

1. Feb. 26 vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 1:05 p.m.: After road games at the Detroit Tigers and

Pittsburgh Pirates, the Orioles open their spring schedule at Ed Smith Stadium by hosting

the Pirates, one of six games the two teams will play in the spring.

2. Feb. 27 vs. New York Yankees, 1:05 p.m.: The Yankees make their only visit of the

spring to Ed Smith. New York finished last season in fourth place in the AL East, the

lowest for the Bronx Bombers since ending the 1992 season in fourth. Over the winter

New York signed Matt Holiday and brought back closer Aroldis Chapman.

3. March 1 vs. Boston Red Sox, 1:05 p.m.: The always-popular Red Sox bring a team minus

David Ortiz to The Ed. Boston solidified itself as a favorite in the division with the

offseason acquisition of left-hander Chris Sale from the White Sox.

4. March 7 vs. Dominican Republic, 1:05 p.m.: The Orioles will play the team from

Dominican Republic, the reigning WBC champion. Baltimore third baseman Manny

Machado, of Dominican descent, will play for the DR club.

5. March 14 vs. Tampa Bay Rays, 1:05 p.m.: Twelve games into the Orioles' spring training

schedule, the Rays make their first of two stops in Sarasota. Tampa Bay's visit on March

22 will be the third of four night games at The Ed.