Baltimore Orioles: Adley Rutschman homers off himself

It is a matter of time until Adley Rutschman makes his major league debut. The consensus top two prospect in baseball has been eagerly anticipated since he was selected by the Baltimore Orioles with the first overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft. Given a lack of truly viable major league options, it is possible that Rutschman makes his debut sometime this year.

On Sunday, Rutschman launched an impressive blast for the Bowie Baysox. Not only did the ball travel an estimated 434 feet, but he hit his own face on the scoreboard.

Baltimore Orioles need Adley Rutschman to live up to potential

Rutschman had gotten off to a solid enough start in Double-A this season. Heading into Sunday, he had posted a .229/.438/.457 batting line with two homers and two doubles in 48 plate appearances. The positive is that he had been getting on base, drawing 12 walks in the early going as his batting eye keeps getting better.

Yet, as respectable as that batting line may be, the Orioles need more. They need Rutschman to be the star they are hoping he will become, a cornerstone player behind the plate that they can build around. He has displayed flashes of being that piece, especially in his brief time in the minors in 2019, but the Orioles need more.

This is particularly true when looking at the Orioles lineup. Cedric Mullins is having a breakout season, and Austin Hays is showing signs of being a solid contributor, but that is really it for possible building blocks on offense. Ryan Mountcastle had an excellent 2020, but has drastically regressed this season. Yusniel Diaz, the centerpiece of the Manny Machado trade, is essentially a forgotten man. Baltimore desperately needs a young star.

Rutschman should be that player. He has a refined approach on both sides of the plate, making hard contact with an ability to drive the ball. His defense and arm as just as good, making Rutschman one of the rare catchers who should be excellent in every facet of the game. If this turns out to be the case, this may not be the only time Rutschman homers off of himself.

Baltimore Orioles prospect Adley Rutschman homered off of his own face on Sunday. Considering his impressive power potential, this may not be the only time it happens.