No team should be more ecstatic about their future than the Baltimore Orioles.
This team has missed the playoffs for six straight seasons, but they are ready to break through.
In 2022, they started the process of becoming a contending team once again.
Baltimore finished the season 83-79, and just missed an AL Wild Card berth.
One reason Orioles fans should be optimistic about their team is because of their young players.
All of their top draft picks over the past 5-6 seasons are finally ready to make an impact in MLB.
Two names in particular stand out among them all.
That is catcher Adley Rutschman and shortstop Gunnar Henderson.
Both players made their MLB debut last season, and are ready for their first full seasons in 2023.
The @Orioles' young phenoms are primed for big seasons. 💪 pic.twitter.com/0gN214oVh6
— MLB (@MLB) January 17, 2023
Rutschman showed all the skills that made him the first overall pick back in 2019.
He was an elite defensive catcher, accumulating 18 defensive runs saved in only 762 innings behind the plate.
Also, he showed off his line-drive swing, which helped him lead all rookies in doubles (35).
Something that is rare for rookies is having plate discipline.
But, Rutschman had it in plenty, finishing second among rookies with 65, to go along with only 86 strikeouts.
The other player Baltimore should be thrilled about is their shortstop of the future.
Henderson only played 34 games last season, but still made his impact felt.
He batted .259 with four home runs and 18 RBI, along with an OPS of .788.
The 21-year-old has serious pop and should be a staple of the Orioles lineup for years to come.
Lastly, these are not the only two young players ready to make an impact.
The Orioles still have a full farm of top prospects that should be outstanding MLB players.
https://t.co/Z3s2EpgF39's front office poll thinks the @Orioles' future is looking very bright. 👀 pic.twitter.com/Ltx5TneVWc
— MLB (@MLB) January 17, 2023
They were voted the best farm system for a reason.
The days of the Orioles being the laughingstock of the AL East are soon to be over.
