The 2022 MLB season was full of impact rookies.
Julio Rodriguez was the best of them all in the junior circuit, but the race for the American League Rookie of the Year award was close because of Baltimore Orioles young phenom Adley Rutschman.
Rutschman surpassed the five-WAR threshold and was a difference-maker both behind the plate and as a hitter in 2022.
In a clear sign that the Orioles will be a problem for the rest of the league for years to come, the team has the two favorites to win the AL ROY in 2023.
That’s right: it’s a clear case of the rich gets richer.
The O’s, who have Cedric Mullins, Rutschman, Austin Hays, Ryan Mountcastle, Dean Kremer, Keegan Akin, Kyle Bradish and other young stars in the bigs, have much more ammunition in their farm.
Young infielder Gunnar Henderson, who already made a huge impact in 2022, is still rookie-eligible and is MLB’s prime candidate to succeed J-Rod.
Plenty of young and exciting talent in the AL – who will take the award? 👀 pic.twitter.com/xHVm7fk6zZ
— The Game Day MLB (@TheGameDayMLB) January 27, 2023
Henderson has power, speed, contact, defense and arm: he is the prototypical five-tool prospect, and could be a star for years to come.
However, he is not the only Oriole who could be among the league’s best rookies.
Pitcher Grayson Rodriguez has been one of the best arms to watch for years, and he is finally ready to help the big league club.
If that wasn’t enough, Colton Cowser and DL Hall are not listed in the tweet, but are dark-horse ROY candidates.
The Orioles are stacked, believe it or not.
After their 83-79 performance in 2022, they are ready to take the next step in their collective development and challenge for a spot in October.
NEXT: Gunnar Henderson Enters 2023 With An Elite Title
