Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Analyzing the Orioles moves

The first move of the off season was trading catcher Ramon Hernandez and cash to the Cinncinatti Reds for utility man Ryan Freel and two prospects. This move is great for the Orioles, moving an aging catcher for a decent utility man and two pitching prospects. Now the Orioles can prepare their top prospect Matt Wieters to start on the major league team sometime in 2009. Wieters is going to be the new face of the Orioles over the next several years as one of the best catchers in the Majors.

The Orioles today also agreed to a deal with defensive shortstop Cesar Izturis, pending a physical. This may be a short term solution at shortstop since Miguel Tejada was traded to the Astros.

The Orioles might make more moves this year, probably moving their army of pitchers for some position players, or signing position players. Their official 40-man roster only has 11 position players and no catchers. I can't see the Orioles contending for another 2-3 years. They have too many holes in depth and lack a set rotation or bullpen.

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