1 bold prediction for each American League East team in 2023
By Owen Russell
Spring Training is a magical moment for baseball fans. Each team is on a level playing field. There is hope. Speculation runs rampant as fans predict big things and have a bold prediction for their club’s future.
In a division like the AL East, this goes ten-fold. For the first time in recent memory, each team has a puncher’s chance at the playoffs. The Yankees, Blue Jays and Rays seem like obvious contenders, but the Orioles and Red Sox both have surprising upside. Expectations will most certainly temper themselves as the season kicks off, but for now each team believes this will be their year.
Here is a bold prediction for each American League East team for the 2023 season.
Baltimore Orioles: Grayson Rodriguez will win Rookie of the Year
The Baltimore Orioles have spent the better part of the past five years amassing a war-chest of top prospects. According to MLB.com, eight of the top 100 prospects in Major League Baseball belong to Baltimore. That includes two prospects in the top 10. Shortstop Gunnar Henderson ranks first, while right-handed pitcher Grayson Rodriguez ranks seventh. While both players have the potential to win Rookie of the Year, my bet is that Rodriguez will pull away from the pack.
Unlike most minor league pitchers, Rodriguez has shown great command with a mix of four effective pitches. His fastball is electric, clocking in at over 100 mph more than once, but his changeup could be even deadlier. Rodriguez’s changeup has filthy movement (almost looking like a screwball at times). Mix in a plus slider, and the potential for a plus curveball, and you’re looking at a strikeout machine. In every level of the minors, G-Rod was notorious for striking out the side. Since entering Single-A, Rodriguez has never had a season with less than 100 strikeouts. As of now, Rodriguez is +1000 to win AL Rookie of the Year by some oddsmakers. Place your bets now because Rodriguez is bound for a breakout year in Baltimore.