This week, as part of the Hot Stove website, the Oriole Post along with other prominent bloggers were asked this question: With less than two weeks remaining until Opening Day, what do you feel is the biggest question facing the Orioles for 2010?
Right now, aside from how the young pitching will fare, I think a lot of fans will be keeping their eye on second baseman Brian Roberts. He’s a major cog in Baltimore’s offense as it’s leadoff hitter, and if Roberts is out for an extended period of time or is not ready to start the season, it will suffer.
Roberts has been recovering from a herniated disk and flew up last week to Baltimore for treatment. Since then, he’s taking part in workouts, swinging the bat and has been in Florida preparing for some game action later this week. From all indications, he looks and sounds fine — right now.
However, if Roberts’ back issues flare up again or get worse, I’d imagine he would go the disabled list. If he does miss Opening Day or portions of the season, we might see Ty Wigginton, Robert Andino or perhaps someone like Justin Tuner play there for some time.
Sadly, Baltimore’s lineup isn’t the same with those options available.
Speaking of Brian, he’s expected to play tonight in Sarasota against the Minnesota Twins.
I’ve been in Florida, plus doing other things on my vacation this week. In time I’ve watched the Orioles in person, I don’t think things are too bad heading into Opening Day and the pitching has been a bright spot. At this point, players are getting ready for the season, pitchers are extending themselves, and soon enough there will more cuts. At this time next week, the team will be clearly defined and we should be getting a fairly good at look at the roster come Opening Day.
Although Brian Matusz took the loss on Wednesday in Jupiter, he did look very good; Millwood held his own against a Philadelphia ‘A’ lineup on Sunday and Brad Bergesen held off a very top-loaded Evil Empire lineup yesterday. From what I have seen, the offense has been scuffling somewhat at the plate, but it all came together yesterday in Sarasota.
