Sock’s MLB Power Rankings: 26. Baltimore Orioles

Coming in at number 26 it is the Baltimore Orioles. This team has a solid hitting core to work with but, the pitching is not impressive.

Notable Additions: Felix Hernandez, Freddy Galvis, Yolmer Sanchez

Notable Losses: Hanser Alberto, Renato Nunez, Alex Cobb, Jose Iglesias

Current Top 5 Prospects: Adley Rutschman, Grayson Rodriguez, Heston Kjerstad, DL Hall, Gunner Henderson

The Orioles overachieved last year during the shortened season finishing 25-35 ahead of the Red Soxs. I would not expect the same results this year. With the Orioles losing both of the middle infielders hurts badly especially since Iglesias had the best batting average on the team and Alberto had the 3rd best batting average. Thankfully they have a very deep outfield and are getting Trey Mancini back. I expect the outfielders to be the main source of run production for this team in 2021.

Pitching is the main problem with this team right now. John Means is the only starting pitcher that can pose a real threat but, injuries get in his way far too often. As far as the bullpen is concerned, they have pieces to work with such as Paul Fry and Tanner Scott who both had under a 2.50 ERA last year.

The Orioles don’t have too much to work with for a full season but lets see some of their X-Factors.

Sock’s 2 X-Factors

1. Trey Mancini

It’s going to be very nice to see Trey Mancini back on the field after his battle with cancer. Mancini isn’t known for his defense but will have no problem hitting the ball as the DH. In Mancini’s first three full seasons, his batting average was .275, and averaged 27 home runs. During his 2019 campaign, he batted .291 with a career-high 35 home runs and an OPS of .899. The Orioles have a gem on their team and it’s great to have him back. Projected 2021 stats .280 30HR 103RBIs.

2. Ryan Mountcastle

Ryan Mountcastle used his first year in the league to his advantage very well. The best part is that he is still rookie eligible for the 2021 season. In 35 games, he hit .333 with 5 home runs and had a respectable .878 OPS as a rookie. The nice part about Mountcastle is that he can play anywhere in the field. His defense still needs work but, he will most likely play first base this upcoming season. No matter where he ends up, he is a bright spot on this rebuilding Orioles team. Projected 2021 Stats .273 20HR 73RBIs

Prospects to look forward to

1. Adley Rutschman

The number 2 prospect in the MLB and the Orioles are lucky to have him. Drafted with the first overall pick in 2019, Rutschman hit over .400 with a 1.327 OPS in his final season at Oregon State. He has elite tools and a sharp mind when calling games behind the plate. Not to mention he is a switch hitter as well. I know Baltimore fans are excited to see him rise through the minor system very quickly. I would expect to see him make his debut in 2022.

2. Heston Kjerstad

This pick seems to be a shock to many people but, I see why the Orioles made the pick. Kjerstad has one of the best left-handed bats coming from the 2020 draft. He batted .343 for his career at Arkansas with an impressive 1.011 OPS. While he didn’t get to play in the minors in 2020, Kjerstad does not lack talent and will most likely progress through the Orioles system very quickly. I would expect to see him in the majors around 2023.

My prediction for the O’s this upcoming season is that they will finish last in the division with a 60-102 record. This team has great hitting players in the majors right now and great prospects on the way. The problem is I do not see a lot of promise in their pitching. Until I see more pitching, I don’t see them being a real threat until 2025.