Over the past week, Brian Roberts has become a lightning rod for a group of fans. Obviously, he has been sidelined thanks to several concussions and recurring head issues.
Some people think Brian Roberts is stealing millions from the Baltimore Orioles for his lack of productivity for the past two years; furthermore, there’s a minority who have accused him of grand larceny despite being out due to injury.
Meanwhile, there’s a segment that feels sorry for him.
I’m definitely part of the latter. It sounds like his head and concussion issues are very serious and are impacting his quality of life.
It would be nice if Roberts could come back and play; however, after what we have seen with players in the NFL and NHL in the past several years, plus what doctors know now about concussions, the Orioles would be playing with fire if he suited up for them.
If you want to know the impact a concussion can have with an elite athlete involving an organization with great uncertainty, hop on Google and read up on the Pittsburgh Penguin’s Sidney Crosby.
The second baseman spoke to the Baltimore Sun and Orioles.com about what he’s had to endure for the past several months, his treatments so far and just to update everyone on the situation.
It sounded like Roberts felt incredibly bad due to his predicament and was to a point … almost helpless.
If one can read in-between-the-lines of what Roberts said, he’s having real problems. Therefore, should not at all even come back unless he’s 100 percent.
That may not happen for a long time — if not in 2012 or beyond.
If you ask anyone, Roberts was one of the elite second baseman in the game for many years. He could do a little of everything – hit for average, power, steal, score and play a competent second base.
Due to his absence – much like last year – the Orioles are a far different team.
However, as I said the other day: considering the history of several players who have had concussions as of late – Ryan Church, Justin Morneau & Jason Bay – Roberts’ outlook may not be all that rosy.
I don’t think Roberts will be back at all this season and may have a long road to climb to get back to where he once was.
That being said, the Orioles will have to look for a second baseman next year – or at least another part-time one with a bit more pop and power in his bat.
As Robert Andino has done to step in because of Roberts’ injury, I don’t see him as a long term everyday guy. I would be surprised if the organization sees him as a long term guy, considering his inability to stay on the field.
