Manny Machado Makes Major League Debut for Orioles

Manny Machado wasn’t expected to be called up until September when the rosters expand.  However, the

Orioles were looking for a spark in their infield.  They called up Machado yesterday, allowing him to bypass Triple-A altogether.

Machado has been considered one of the best prospects in baseball, but many questioned the call-up to the Orioles Major League club.  Machado was hitting .266/.352/.438 at Double-A Bowie.  However, the Bowie plays its games in a pitcher’s park and a pitcher’s league.  While Machado may not light the world on fire right away, his Double-A numbers may not truly suggest he will fail at the Major League level.

In his first game last night, Machado went 1-for-4 with a triple.  He was able to showcase his speed on the base-paths as he stretched his gapper into a three-bagger.  While Machado only collected one hit, he did not strike out in the game.

The Orioles fans gave Machado a warm welcome as he made his first Major League plate appearance in the second inning.

The Orioles are in the hunt for a play-off spot and are continuing to surprise the baseball world.  They have a record of 60-52.  They are only 5.5 games back of the Yankees, and they currently own the second Wild Card spot.  Machado may not need to carry the team, but the Orioles think he can help them down the stretch.