In case you hadn’t noticed by now, the Baltimore Orioles will be a problem for years to come.
After a series of losing seasons from 2017 to 2021, they finally showed something in 2022 and earned an 83-79 record.
The situation is much more promising than that record, barely over .500.
They are full of talented, explosive young players both on the pitching side of things and the offense.
Young, controllable players that are good enough to make a positive impact are the most valuable assets in MLB, and the Orioles have plenty: Adley Rutschman, Ryan Mountcastle, Gunnar Henderson, Cedric Mullins, Kyle Bradish, Dean Kremer, Felix Bautista, Keegan Akin, and many more.
We are not even counting several potential stars currently in the minor leagues: DL Hall, Colton Cowser, and future star Grayson Rodriguez.
Universally considered a top-five pitching prospect in MLB, Rodriguez took the mound on Thursday and was thoroughly impressive.
“Grayson Rodriguez’s fastball today: 97.9 mph avg. velo, 98.9 max. His avg. release extension was 7.4 feet. That would be tied for 5th-highest in MLB last season, so to the hitter, his fastball must look even faster. Orioles’ No. 2 prospect / MLB’s No. 7 overall per @MLBPipeline,” Statcast’s David Adler tweeted.
Grayson Rodriguez's fastball today: 97.9 mph avg. velo, 98.9 max.
His avg. release extension was 7.4 feet. That would be tied for 5th-highest in MLB last season, so to the hitter, his fastball must look even faster.
Orioles' No. 2 prospect / MLB's No. 7 overall per @MLBPipeline
— David Adler (@_dadler) March 2, 2023
Not only can he touch 98-99 with his fastball, which is already filthy enough, but his extension makes perceived velocity even higher for hitters.
Rodriguez’s fastball is an asset, and he profiles as an ace for the Orioles.
He is a good bet to make his MLB debut at some point this season, and don’t be surprised if he makes the team out of camp.
He is that good, and can improve a mediocre O’s rotation in a hurry.
NEXT: Top Orioles Prospect Gets Off To A Hot Start
