What to expect from the Baltimore Orioles in 2018
The Baltimore Orioles are in the unenviable position of not only being in the same division as the Red Sox and Yankees, but to also be without a firm direction.
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It is entirely understandable that the Orioles would want to take one more run at the postseason. After all, they have one of the best players in the game in Manny Machado, a solid outfielder in Adam Jones, and, when healthy, an excellent closer in Zach Britton. Brad Brach and Chris Tillman are also set to be free agents after the season. The time would be now for the Orioles.
However, they have not done anything to really add to this core. Three minor league contracts in Andrew Susac, Colby Rasmus, and Danny Valencia are hardly the types of moves that would supplement a roster with legitimate postseason aspirations. The starting rotation has been ignored. Tillman may be able to bounce back from his disastrous 2017 campaign, but he alone is not enough to turn this season into a success.
Right now, the best case scenario for the Orioles would appear to be a .500 record. Yet, even that seems unlikely, especially given the improvements made by the teams above them. That decision not to sell at the deadline last year may well come back to haunt the Orioles for years to come, especially given their weak farm system and refusal to spend on international prospects.
Next: Orioles top ten prospects
The Baltimore Orioles are in for a long season. Although they may not be trying to tank, a top five pick may be in their future. Prediction: Fifth place in the AL East.