Baltimore Orioles: How Jose Iglesias helps the future
By David Hill
The Baltimore Orioles signed Jose Iglesias to a one year contract, but his presence could be felt beyond 2020.
When the Baltimore Orioles signed Jose Iglesias to a one year deal this offseason, the news barely made a ripple. He was a stopgap for Baltimore, a $3 million gamble that could pay off at the trade deadline. If he performed well, it was possible that the Orioles could pick up his option for 2021, but that appeared to be more of an enticement for a potential trade partner.
Despite the expectations, this move could pay dividends for the future, and not just in what Iglesias could bring back in a trade package. He had started a mentor/student relationship with Richie Martin, helping the young infielder work on his defense and the mental aspect of the game.
A Rule V draft pick prior to the 2019 season, the Orioles had to carry Martin on their roster all season. Considering that Baltimore was not expected to contend, the team really had nothing to lose by seeing him play every day. Ideally, they would find a key piece of the future, a player that could be a building block down the road.
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Instead, Martin struggled in virtually every aspect. In his 309 plate appearances, he posted a miserable .208/.260/.322 batting line, hitting eight doubles and six homers while stealing ten bases. Defensively, he finished fifth in fielding percentage at short, but cost the Orioles eight runs and had below average range at the position.
That is where Iglesias comes in. While he is not likely to impress anyone offensively, Iglesias is considered one of the best defensive players in the game, a player who could be considered a candidate for the Gold Glove almost every year. He has saved 17 runs at short, twice finishing in the top five at the position.
As it stands, the Orioles are not certain as to what they will be doing with Martin. He is battling four other infielders for a role on the major league roster, meaning that his improvement will be paramount. Without a minor league season, his ability to develop could be further stunted. However, with his mentorship with Iglesias, he could be that utility man the Orioles are looking for, a player whose glove can play up at any infield position.
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Jose Iglesias may not be with the Baltimore Orioles for long, but his impact could be felt for years to come. If Richie Martin can become a useful piece for the future, Iglesias will have played a part in that development.