Assessing the Orioles’ outfield following the most recent updates
The Orioles reorganized their outfield earlier this week by sending Heston Kjerstad to the minor leagues and designating Ryan McKenna for assignment. These moves were made as Kyle Stowers was recalled and Austin Hays returned from injury.
At the start of the season, the outfield situation seemed crowded, with Anthony Santander, Cedric Mullins, and Austin Hays being the mainstays, alongside promising youngsters. Colton Cowser, a former first-round pick, joined the trio. With Jorge Mateo proving his ability to handle center field when needed, the team felt comfortable moving forward with just four primary outfielders.
Since then, there have been notable changes. Jackson Holliday made his debut but showed he needed more experience in the minors. McKenna faced designation for assignment twice. Meanwhile, the veteran outfielders have encountered struggles of their own. Hays landed on the injured list due to a calf issue, while Mullins and Santander have both faced challenges at the plate, though Santander’s overall performance has been relatively stronger.
Cowser quickly made an impact, earning Rookie of the Month honors in April with impressive offensive stats. Additionally, Ryan O’Hearn, primarily a first baseman, has excelled against right-handed pitchers, making him a valuable asset in the lineup.
O’Hearn’s success has led to him occasionally playing in the outfield, adding to the competition for playing time. This, along with Cowser’s emergence, limited Kjerstad’s opportunities, leading to his return to the minors after minimal appearances with the team.
Despite defensive strengths from Hays and Stowers, O’Hearn’s prowess against right-handed pitchers presents a dilemma for playing time allocation. Hays, known for his streaky performances, may still have potential for a breakout, and his versatility adds value to the team.
With Cowser experiencing a recent slump, opportunities for others like Stowers may arise. Stowers has shown versatility in playing multiple outfield positions, further complicating the decision-making process for the coaching staff.
Overall, the Orioles boast a talented outfield roster, blending experienced veterans with promising prospects. While navigating playing time and slumps presents challenges, it also provides the team with valuable depth and options on a nightly basis. Balancing these factors will require careful consideration from manager Brandon Hyde and the front office.
