After a dreadful 2-16 start to the season, the Baltimore Orioles ended 66-96 giving them their 13th losing season in a row. However, the O’s took a roundabout way to get to the 66 win plateau. It took three managers and a hot August and September, but Baltimore pulled out 34 wins since Buck Showalter took over on Aug. 3.
Now, for grades.
Catcher: Matt Wieters/Craig Tatum/Jake Fox – C+
Wieters made strides defensively, but his offense wasn’t as good as what was expected going in to his season with the Major League club. Tatum played well in limited action. His defense was impressive and he didn’t look overmatched at the plate. Fox only played catcher a few times, but seemed to have a feel for calling a game. When he got a chance to hit, Fox liked to swing from his heels and was an all or nothing type hitter.
First base: Ty Wigginton/Garrett Atkins/Luke Scott/Brandon Snyder – C
Wigginton led the team both home runs and RBIs, but most of his numbers came early in the year when he was playing second base in place of Brian Roberts. Atkins was a complete disaster for the Orioles and was released. Scott played sparingly at first and most of his production came from designated hitter spot. Snyder made his Major League debut in Sept., but seemed to be able to swing the bat a little bit.
Second base: Wigginton/Brian Roberts/Scott Moore/Julio Lugo/Robert Andino – B-
Wigginton, as mentioned above, was very productive at the plate when he was playing second base, but his defense was limited because of his range at the position. Moore is a corner infielder that tried to play second base. He also struggled offensively. Roberts was injured most of the year so his grade is incomplete. Lugo and Andino each didn’t play enough, but performed to their expected levels.
Third base: Miguel Tejada/Josh Bell/Wigginton – C
Tejada had a lot of trouble adjusting to third base from shortstop and his offense slumped before being traded away to the Padres for Wynn Pelzer. With the trade of Tejada, Bell became the every day third baseman for the O’s. Bell’s defense steadily improved, but his offense left a lot to be desired meaning he may need a little more seasoning at the Triple-A level.
Shortstop: Cesar Izturis – B
Izturis is a player that knows his role. His defense was outstanding this season. As usual, Izturis didn’t hit much, but his role is to play defense behind the O’s young pitching staff.
Outfield: Nick Markakis/Adam Jones/Felix Pie/Nolan Reimold/Corey Patterson – B-
Markakis’ defense was again Gold Glove worthy, but his offense left a lot to be desired. In 2010, Markakis became a very good hitter with little power because he was content slapping the ball to left field. Jones’ season can be considered a disappointment because he was inconsistent both at the plate and in the field. Reimold spent most of 2010 in the minor leagues. Pie developed in to one of the better left fielders in the American League. However, Pie needs to stay healthy for an entire season. Patterson should be considered a pleasant surprise. Patterson filled in while Pie was out and came up with some clutch hits. He might be a decent option to bring back as a fourth or fifth outfield in 2011.
Pitchers – C
Overall, the pitchers were average. The team ERA was lower and walks dropped, especially in the last two months. Baltimore’s starters developed over the course of the season in to what could be a formidable bunch for years to come, if they can all continue with their growth. The bullpen, at times, was dominant, but could use some tinkering this offseason.
Overall Grade – C
The Orioles turned an awful start in to a season that wasn’t historically bad. Going in to next season, there is reason for hope, but the real season to circle for the O’s is 2012.
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