The clock is ticking for baseball fans as spring training approaches, and the Orioles' preparations are in full swing! But here's the catch: the team has been unusually quiet in the lead-up to the season.
As pitchers and catchers report for the World Baseball Classic (WBC), the Orioles' roster is almost set. With the season opener just around the corner, fans are eager to see if the team will sign another pitcher, or if they'll stick with the current squad. It's a waiting game that's testing the patience of many supporters.
The fifth starter role is a hot topic. Tyler Wells is likely to fill the spot until Zach Eflin is ready, but some fans are hoping for a surprise from Albert Suárez, Cade Povich, or Brandon Young. The team's strategy will become clearer once all players report to Sarasota, and fans eagerly await news on Eflin's timeline.
However, the bullpen has taken a hit with the recent trade of Kade Strowd to the Diamondbacks. The relief corps now looks thin, and the potential for increased playing time for Keegan Akin and Deitrich Enns is causing some concern. Enns, in particular, has yet to prove himself at this level, leaving fans with mixed feelings.
In other news, the iconic scoreboard clock at Oriole Park has an intriguing history, as revealed by Andy Kostka. And for those following the WBC, Rich Dubroff provides a comprehensive list of all Orioles connections, including former pitcher Vance Worley, who is now representing Great Britain.
Birthdays are a great way to reminisce about past players. Vidal Bruján, who briefly played for the Orioles in 2025, celebrates his 28th birthday today. The team claimed him off waivers from the Cubs but quickly lost him to the Braves. Local hero Bruce Zimmermann, who turns 31, had a short stint with the Brewers last year. And the legendary Vladimir Guerrero, celebrating his 51st birthday, spent a season with the Orioles in 2011, though it wasn't his most memorable.
The Orioles have a history of signing players on this day, like relief pitchers Mark Hendrickson and Will Ohman in 2010, and first baseman Nick Johnson in 2012. Johnson's signing sparked debate among fans, as many believed Chris Davis was the better choice, and the results seemed to confirm this.
So, Orioles fans, are you satisfied with the team's current state? Do you think they need one more pitcher, or is the current roster enough to compete? Share your thoughts and predictions for the upcoming season!
