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Friday, February 3, 2017

Columns:

Orioles' new pitching coach Roger McDowell is in mold of predecessor Dave Wallace

The Sun 2/3

Caleb Joseph to make $700,000 after arbitration decision goes in Orioles favor The Sun

2/2

Examining the free agent outfielders who could upgrade the Orioles defensively The Sun

2/2

Orioles sign former Angels second baseman Johnny Giavotella to minor league deal The

Sun 2/1

Weighing whether Wieters is worth re-signing MLB.com 2/3

How can Orioles improve their outfield defense? MLB.com 2/3

O's, Giavotella reportedly agree to Minors deal MLB.com 2/3

O's win arbitration case against Joseph MLB.com 2/2

Orioles could add another catcher MASNsports.com 2/3

Joseph loses arbitration case (and signs one-year deal) MASNsports.com 2/2

Prediction season is about to begin MASNsports.com 2/3

Orioles add 2B Johnny Giavotella on minor league deal ESPN.com 2/3

Catcher Caleb Joseph loses to Orioles in arbitration ESPN.com 2/2

Orioles' Ubaldo Jimenez Facing Crucial Year PressBoxOnline.com 2/3

Orioles Beat Caleb Joseph In Arbitration Case PressBoxOnline.com 2/2

Biggest Question Facing Orioles' Hyun Soo Kim PressBoxOnline.com 2/2

Longest Tenured Oriole Adam Jones Joins Hot Stove Show CBS Baltimore 2/3

Orioles Beat Catcher Joseph For 9th Straight Arbitration Win CBS Baltimore 2/3

Catcher Caleb Joseph Loses To Orioles In Arbitration CBS Baltimore 2/2

105.7 The Fan To Broadcast 12 Orioles Spring Training Games CBS Baltimore 2/2

Joseph Goes To Arbitration After Record For ABs With No RBIs CBS Baltimore 2/2

Caleb Joseph loses arbitration case with the Orioles NBCSports.com 2/2

Myriad Orioles thoughts: Joseph’s salary; arb wins; Manfra’s legacy

BaltimoreBaseball.com 2/3

Minor League Podcast: Jason Garcia on becoming a dad; working out with Brady

Anderson; preparing for 2017 BaltimoreBaseball.com 2/2

Bordick and Antonen are featured guests at ‘Hot Stove Talk’ in York

BaltimoreBaseball.com 2/1

Radio chatter: Washington’s signing of Vance Worley is Orioles’ loss

BaltimoreBaseball.com 2/1

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-orioles-new-pitching-coach-roger-

mcdowell-is-in-the-mold-of-predecessor-dave-wallace-20170201-story.html

Orioles' new pitching coach Roger McDowell is in mold of

predecessor Dave Wallace

By Eduard A. Encina / The Baltimore Sun

February 3, 2017

When new Orioles pitching coach Roger McDowell was introduced in a conference call earlier

this offseason, it didn’t take long for him to recite a commonly used phrase he learned from his

predecessor and mentor, Dave Wallace.

“They don't care how much you know until they know how much you care,” he said.

It’s a quote Wallace used early on to describe his approach to developing young pitchers. And

many Orioles pitchers – closer Zach Britton, right-hander Chris Tillman, and young arms Kevin

Gausman and Dylan Bundy – have credited Wallace and bullpen coach Dom Chiti for playing a

major role in the strides they made.

McDowell first met Wallace while he was still a player with the Los Angeles Dodgers and

Wallace was the team’s pitching coordinator. Wallace was instrumental in getting McDowell

into pitching coaching, getting him his first minor league job in 2002 with the South Georgia

Waves. They reunited in Atlanta, where McDowell continued to learn from Wallace as he made

his way to becoming a major league pitching coach, a post he owned for the past 11 years before

joining the Orioles.

“We have a relationship I value tremendously,” McDowell said at FanFest this weekend. “He’s

most instrumental in, one, getting me to become a pitching coach at the minor league level … to

getting to come here. … We’ve had those conversations. He’s always been a contributor to

success and everywhere he’s gone he’s had success and whether that’s with pitching coaches or

players, he’s been a very successful person.”

And that advice that Wallace passed along to McDowell – that teaching pitching is as much

about the building strong relationships as it is about mechanics – has been one McDowell

embraced since he began coaching.

“It stuck with me a long time,” McDowell said.

If McDowell – along with new bullpen coach Alan Mills – can offer some continuity in regards

to the bond Orioles pitchers developed with Wallace and Chiti, who are both now back in

Atlanta in non-dugout developmental roles, it would speak volumes for a staff that will see its

sixth major league pitching coach since 2010.

While McDowell said he will likely bring some of Wallace’s philosophies with him, he said he

has learned from many pitching coaches along the way. That list includes Pat Dobson, who was

Orioles pitching coach when McDowell was a reliever in Baltimore in 1996, and Mel

Stottlemyre, who was McDowell’s first major league pitching coach in his five seasons with the

New York Mets from 1985 to 1989.

“More than anything else, I’ve learned from all my coaches that the player is first and foremost,”

McDowell said. “Obviously, we have a bunch of very intelligent minds in this organization, and

the important thing is the player, the pitcher, understanding that we care about them.”

See more from McDowell on his regard for Wallace and his coaching philosophy in the video

embedded above.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-caleb-joseph-to-make-700-000-after-

arbitration-decision-goes-in-orioles-favor-20170202-story.html

Caleb Joseph to make $700,000 after arbitration decision

goes in Orioles favor

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

February 2, 2017

Orioles catcher Caleb Joseph will make $700,000 in 2017 after the club won its salary arbitration

case Wednesday, according to an industry source.

Joseph, the team’s backup catcher, filed for a $1 million salary, and the team countered at

$700,000. Under a new policy for the Orioles this year, the team said it would not negotiate once

arbitration numbers were filed. If the two sides could not reach an agreement by the Jan. 13

deadline, then it would go to a hearing.

However, according to a source, the team offered a midpoint settlement before the hearing

Wednesday morning in St. Petersburg, Fla. No settlement was reached, and the hearing went on

as planned.

Joseph’s case was the first of three expected for the team this month, with reliever Brad Brach

and starting pitcher Kevin Gausman also set for hearings.

It's unclear whether either pitcher will get a similar offer as Joseph did to avoid the

uncomfortable setting of a hearing, which forces teams to essentially call out negative qualities

of their own players with the players present.

In most cases, a player with three years of major league service time is eligible for salary

arbitration, though Joseph is an exception. Each year, the league designates a select group of

players with two years of service time, known as "Super Two" players.

As someone whose service time was among the top 22 percent of players with two years or more

in the league, Joseph earned an extra year of salary arbitration beginning this season. While he

earned a raise from his $523,500 salary in 2016, the process hasn’t been kind to him so far.

After two seasons of strong performance both in the absence of and alongside Matt Wieters in

2014 and 2015, Joseph endured a humbling 2016 in which he batted .179 without a home run or

RBI in 141 plate appearances. His year was marred by a testicular injury that cost him more than

a month, and he spent part of August in the minors to regain his swing.

The Orioles didn’t think his past performance was worth an essentially doubled salary, and the

process ended with a ruling in their favor.

Joseph now enters spring training as the presumed backup to Welington Castillo, though his spot

could be in jeopardy if the team wants to keep Francisco Pena, who must be exposed to waivers

before the team can assign him to the minors. Joseph has minor league options.

The Orioles have now won 11 out of 12 arbitration cases. The only loss was with former top pick

Ben McDonald in 1995.

Before Joseph, the most recent case was outfielder Alejandro De Aza in 2015.

FanRag Sports first reported the decision.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-examining-the-free-agent-outfielders-who-

could-upgrade-the-orioles-defensively-20170202-story.html

Examining the free agent outfielders who could upgrade the

Orioles defensively

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

February 2, 2017

Now that all invested parties — from management to his teammates to fans — have had the time

to process Orioles center fielder Adam Jones’ call for better outfield defense and athleticism at

the corner spots, here comes the hard part.

While there are loads of veteran free agents still on the market with spring training less than two

week away, just how many options do the Orioles have that can fit this mold for them in 2017?

And given their roster construction, how many make sense for them?

If they’re looking for someone to do anything other than come off the bench, the Orioles

probably need a right-handed bat (or someone who can hit lefties generally well), with Seth

Smith and Hyun Soo Kim already holding down the outfield spots against right-handers.

However, the primary concern is defense. While we went through the list of available defensive

outfield candidates in December at the Winter Meetings, that list has changed a lot in two

months.

Using FanGraph’s defensive metrics, here are the players who best fit what Jones and the Orioles

need to round out the roster.

Sam Fuld

The case for: Among players who have played more than 1,500 innings in the last three seasons,

Fuld is one of the best defensive outfielders on the market. The statistic ultimate zone rating per

150 innings (UZR/150), which measures a fielder's values based on the batted balls he does or

not convert into outs and then assigns run values to each, has Fuld eighth on that criteria list with

a 16.8 UZR/150. Most of that production came in 2014 and 2015, as he missed 2016 with a

shoulder injury. Additionally, he plays all three outfield positions.

The case against: As with most of these players, the drawback is the bat, or lack thereof. Fuld is a

career .227 hitter with a lifetime .632 OPS, and though he’s a left-handed hitter who hits arm-

side pitching better than opposite side (.231 vs. .226), it’s still not very enticing. For a straight-up

defensive replacement, the way Drew Stubbs was last year, that’s fine, but the Orioles could

argue they need more.

Chris Coghlan

The case for: Another strong defender and an important cog on the 2016 World Series

champion Chicago Cubs, Coghlan is looking for work and fits Jones’ bill. The 2004 NL Rookie

of the Year does more than play outfield, but for this purpose he can play either corner spot and

has a 7.3 UZR/150 since 2014. To show how these stats don’t always match up, he has a minus-9

defensive runs saved (DRS) rating, but he can still cover ground.

The case against: Like Fuld, Coghlan’s biggest knock is that he’s a left-handed hitter. The

Orioles have said they want one for lineup balance purposes, but Mark Trumbo’s return and

presence as a right-on-right killer makes that moot. Coghlan wasn’t really hitting with Oakland

early in the year, but when he returned to the Cubs, he posted a .779 OPS down the stretch. He’s

a much better hitter against righties (.268) than lefties (.226), which doesn’t help his cause here.

Will Venable

The case for: The 34-year-old Venable spent most of last season in Triple-A in the Dodgers and

Phillies organizations, but had a matching UZR/150 and DRS over the last three seasons: 5.0. He

last played center field extensively in 2015 with the San Diego Padres, but has major league

experience at all three positions.

The case against: That there was no major league job for him last year, and he had one hit in 19

at-bats when the Dodgers did call him up isn’t a ringing endorsement of where the game sees

Venable. And like the rest, he’s a left-handed bat who is better against righties. If that’s what

they’re going for, he’s probably not the best option.

Desmond Jennings

The case for: If the Orioles want to bet on a player who once appeared to be a star in the making

and hope he can regain that form, Jennings could be an interesting candidate. He didn’t fill in

well for star gloveman Kevin Kiermaier last year in Tampa Bay, but has shown decent range

over the last three years with a 1.4 UZR/150 and 13 defensive runs saved. Left field works best

for him defensively at this point.

He also, unlike the rest, is a right-handed bat. He didn’t hit lefties well last season, but is a career

.264 hitter against lefties, up nearly 20 points from his .245 career average overall.

The case against: Released by the Rays late last year, Jennings has fallen a long way from those

early years. Injuries kind of derailed him, and there might still be some pop in the bat. He was

getting expensive, but his health and the fact that the Rays straight-up released him could give

pause.

Also in consideration: There’s really no perfect solution, but these players on the downside of

their career are less perfect than those listed above: Michael Bourn, Coco Crisp, Angel Pagan.

Jones has a point, but it’s pretty late in the game to make a substantial upgrade, especially

considering how defense is valued these days. The Orioles might get a piece that helps, but the

list of candidates isn’t a long one.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-orioles-sign-former-angels-second-

baseman-johnny-giavotella-to-minor-league-deal-20170201-story.html

Orioles sign former Angels second baseman Johnny

Giavotella to minor league deal

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

February 1, 2017

The Orioles continued to fill out their organizational depth this week with the signing of second

baseman Johnny Giavotella to a minor league deal.

The contract is reportedly could be worth $1.1 million if he spends the year in the majors.

"I'm very appreciative of the new opportunity with the @Orioles!" Giavotella tweeted Thursday

morning. "Ready to give it my all for the Baltimore fans and the organization!"

Giavotella, who began his career with the Kansas City Royals but has played for the Los Angeles

Angels for the past two seasons, hit a career-high six home runs while batting .260 with a .662

OPS in 99 games in 2016.

However, he was designated for assignment in August and ended up a free agent at the end of the

season.

With Jonathan Schoop entrenched at second base and Ryan Flaherty a utility piece who provides

more versatility, Giavotella seems like a player who could be ticketed for Norfolk at the

beginning of the season.

The Orioles are particularly thin when it comes to infield depth entering the spring, with only

minor league free agent Sean Coyle and longtime farmhand Garabez Rosa currently on the

roster and able to play the non-first base infield positions with high minors experience.

FanRag Sports first reported the deal.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/215124436/matt-wieters-could-still-return-to-orioles/

Weighing whether Wieters is worth re-signing

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 3, 2017

BALTIMORE -- Should the Orioles re-sign catcher Matt Wieters?

No. Logistically, it doesn't make a whole lot of sense for the O's, who already added Welington

Castillo, to bring back Wieters and have the pair split duties. The fact that Wieters remains a free

agent is unexpected, though the offseason has seen numerous higher-profile players in a cheaper

market than expected vying for any kind of job.

Wieters, who accepted the Orioles' qualifying offer last offseason to delay free agency, is well-

liked in the clubhouse and by manager Buck Showalter. But it would be surprising if he elected

to sign somewhere knowing he wouldn't be the full-time backstop. The O's aren't actively

pursuing Wieters, making the reunion a long shot, but it's not entirely out of the question.

The longer this goes, the more Wieters' price is likely to drop, and that's exactly the wheelhouse

of executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette. Though you would think with

Duquette adding Castillo, money could be allocated elsewhere (such as starting pitching or

outfield depth) either before Spring Training or during the season.

Keep in mind the Orioles didn't sign Castillo with visions of him being the main catcher. They

wanted a veteran backstop who had some offensive capability and enough of a presence behind

the plate to not rush No. 2 prospect Chance Sisco, who is probably a season or two away from

being Baltimore's starting backstop. Caleb Joseph, who hit .174 in 132 at-bats in 2016, is

Castillo's backup.

Re-signing a homegrown guy like Wieters, who was drafted by the Orioles and has yet to wear

another uniform, would be sentimental, but not practical. Sure, he could spend some time at

designated hitter, but the O's added Mark Trumbo with the idea being that he would see more

time at DH and less in the outfield this season.

Wieters is coming off a season in which he hit .243/.302/.409 with 17 home runs and 66 RBIs.

He's been linked to several other teams, including the Angels, Reds and Rockies, as well as the

division-rival Rays.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/215031684/how-orioles-can-improve-2017-outfield-

defense/

How can Orioles improve their outfield defense?

By Mike Petriello / MLB.com

February 3, 2017

Over the weekend at FanFest, Orioles center fielder Adam Jones made his thoughts known about

the state of the club's outfield defense. Although he may have made some waves with the

bluntness of his comments, he's also just about 100 percent correct about the defensive quality of

an outfield that in addition to Jones looks to feature some combination of Mark Trumbo, Hyun

Soo Kim, Seth Smith and Joey Rickard -- none considered a strong fielder.

"It's going to be hard," Jones said. "These guys aren't necessarily known for their defense. We

don't have a strikeout pitching staff, so our defense is used quite a bit. You see how our infield

defense is unbelievable. We're still competitive in the outfield, but we just need to get a little bit

more athletic out there, in my point of view. I've been out there for a while. I've seen the

changes. Those are just a little bit of my ideas."

Jones later added that he was "not saying that Trumbo and Smith aren't athletic, they're very

good athletes, but they're not top-of-the-line defensive players first," and it would be difficult to

argue with any of that. Trumbo was brought back because he led baseball with 47 homers last

season, and Smith is one of the best platoon hitters in the game. They have their strengths, but

defense isn't atop the list.

Regardless of how closely Jones looks at contemporary defensive data, the numbers back up his

opinion. In 2016, Baltimore's outfield, with Nolan Reimold instead of Smith,

ranked last in Defensive Runs Saved (-51 runs) and last in Ultimate Zone Rating (-37).

Though those are admittedly imperfect metrics, they back up the eye test, and it's hard to talk

around being last in both.

So if everyone agrees the O's should improve their outfield defense, what can they do at this late

date in the offseason?

Improve their defensive positioning

This is right from Dan Duquette, executive vice president of baseball operations, who said, "I

think there's some things that we can do to make our outfield defense better [without adding

players]," and changing positioning can be part of that.

We know that in 2016, the Cubs moved Dexter Fowler deeper to great effect; we know the

Pirates brought Andrew McCutchen in shallower, and it backfired. This doesn't simply mean

"deeper is better," as all situations are different, though since Jones is notoriously a shallow

center fielder, that's where the mind immediately goes.

That said, Jones wasn't hurt by balls going over his head nearly as much as you might think.

There's not an obvious danger spot in the data that stands out so much as there is a clear lack of

range and speed from the fielders involved. Still, Orioles fans are often griping about the team's

supposed preference to position corner outfielders in the power alleys rather than near the lines.

We don't have a perfect way to quantify that -- yet. But we can do a quick cherry-pick of a

comparison by looking at the positioning of 2016's two best outfield defenses -- Boston and

Kansas City -- and it does seem clear that with corner outfielders pinched in and Jones shallow,

O's outfielders are starting from different places than those on the other two clubs. Only five

teams allowed more hits to the extreme part of left field down the line (defined as more than 30

degrees, where 45 is the line) in 2016.

Add a capable defender

"I don't necessarily buy that idea," Jones said in response to the idea of changing positioning,

adding, "I would say just get more athletic guys."

Fair enough. A good outfielder, preferably a righty who can play more than one spot, would not

only add skill, but could push Trumbo, a first baseman miscast as an outfielder, into a time share

at first base/designated hitter with Chris Davis. (Yes, that would push young hitters Christian

Walker and Trey Mancini back to Triple-A. No, it's not a problem; neither one managed even an

.800 OPS in the Minors last year. The same goes for righty Rickard, below average on both sides

of the ball in the bigs before getting injured, and unknown Rule 5 Draft picks Aneury

Tavarez and Anthony Santander.)

But who?

The O's have reportedly kept in contact with free agent Michael Bourn, who was acquired late

last season, but as a 34-year-old lefty bat who is a below-average hitter, he's not an ideal fit.

One interesting free-agent option would have been Desmond Jennings, though he's reportedly

going to sign with the Reds. That might mean that the best free-agent option left is Franklin

Gutierrez, who was once arguably the game's best defensive center fielder, now reinvented as a

slugging righty backup in the corners, albeit no longer the defender he once was.

If you're looking at trades, you'd have to buy high on Adam Duvall (34 homers, +14 DRS), who's

basically a better-fielding version of Trumbo; see about such decent-fielding righty hitters

as Scott Van Slyke, Matt Szczur or Tommy Pham; or try to grab a light-hitting good glove,

perhaps Juan Lagares or Jake Marisnick. All seem less likely than signing a free agent or sticking

with Rickard.

Jones' 425-foot home run

Move Jones to a corner

We'll admit that this isn't going to happen for Opening Day, in part because the Orioles don't

have a better option in center field right now. Yet although Jones was correct in his assessment

of his teammates, he himself was ranked 28th in DRS among 32 center fielders who had played

500 innings, and 29th in UZR/150. Although those metrics aren't infallible, Jones also posted his

lowest slugging percentage since 2008 and stole only two bases after years of being a lock for

double digits. If not conclusive, the numbers are least add circumstantial evidence to the idea that

he's no longer one of the better defenders in the game.

If the Pirates can discuss moving McCutchen to a corner, so can the O's regarding Jones. It won't

happen now. It probably won't happen during the season. But outfield defense is a group effort in

Baltimore. Bringing back Trumbo didn't do much to fix the issue. At some point soon,

something's going to have to change.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/215037644/johnny-giavotella-orioles-strike-minors-deal/

O's, Giavotella reportedly agree to Minors deal

By Joe Trezza / MLB.com

February 3, 2017

The Orioles added to their infield depth by agreeing to a Minor League deal with veteran Johnny

Giavotella, according to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman. The club has not confirmed.

Heyman reports the deal could be worth $1.1 million with incentives, if Giavotella makes the

Major League team.

A six-year veteran, Giavotella could provide a right-handed-hitting complement to backup

infielder Ryan Flaherty, who offered insurance at six positions in each of the last two seasons.

Though Giavotella has played the bulk of his career at second base, he could conceivably fill in

at shortstop and third base if needed.

Giavotella, 29, came up with the Royals and saw significant playing time over the last two

seasons with the Angels. His most productive season came in 2015, when Giavotella hit

.272/.318/.375 with four home runs and 49 RBIs in 129 games.

The Angels released him in August.

Giavotella is a career .256/.295/.361 hitter with 14 home runs.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/214994660/orioles-win-arbitration-case-over-caleb-joseph/

O's win arbitration case against Joseph

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

February 2, 2017

BALTIMORE -- The Orioles continued their strong performance in arbitration rulings, winning

their case against catcher Caleb Joseph on Thursday.

Joseph, one of three O's who were unable to reach an agreement for a 2017 salary, will make

$700,000 in '17, which was Baltimore's figure. His camp had sought $1 million. It's still a bump

up for Joseph, however, as he made $523,500 in '16.

Joseph enters camp as the favorite to earn the backup catching spot behind Welington Castillo.

Baltimore isn't actively pursuing catcher Matt Wieters, who remains a free agent, and Joseph is

considered a better defender than Francisco Pena. However, Pena is out of options, and Joseph

has one remaining, which could factor into final spring roster decisions.

Joseph played in 49 games last season, and he hit .174/.216/.197 with three doubles.

The news, first reported by MLB Network Insider Jon Heyman, improves the Orioles to 11-1 in

arbitration hearings since Peter Angelos took over principal ownership in 1993. Reliever Brad

Brach and starter Kevin Gausman are the two remaining arbitration hearings for Baltimore.

Per MLB rules, when a player is still under team control and is arbitration-eligible, if the two

sides cannot reach an agreement, it goes to a hearing where it's decided by a panel of three

arbitrators.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/orioles-could-add-another-catcher.html

Orioles could add another catcher

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 3, 2017

The Orioles are in the market for another catcher as spring training approaches.

Austin Wynns injured his ankle while playing for Tigres del Licey in the Dominican Winter

League and it’s not known when he’ll be available. He’s on the list of spring invites, along with

top prospect Chance Sisco and Audry Perez.

One official speculated that Wynns might not be ready until March, but he’s started to swing a

bat and is working out.

The 40-man roster includes catchers Welington Castillo, Caleb Joseph and Francisco Pena.

The club needs to have enough guys to catch all the pitchers in camp, so executive vice president

Dan Duquette may bring in someone else on a minor league contract.

Wynns played at three levels of the farm system last year - 51 games at Single-A Frederick, 21

games at Double-A Bowie and eight games at Triple-A Norfolk. He hit a combined

.287/.336/.416, including a .303/.351/.436 slash line with the Keys.

I know what you’re thinking and, yes, Matt Wieters remains unsigned. But Wynns’ injury isn’t

going to push the Orioles into negotiations. The two aren’t connected.

* Left-hander Boone Logan agreed to terms with the Indians yesterday on a one-year deal with a

club option for 2018. He reportedly will earn a base salary of $5.5 million and the option is

worth $7 million.

The Orioles have liked Logan for quite a while now, but figured that he would be too expensive

as they sought another left-hander for the bullpen. They don’t want to rely solely on Donnie

Hart, whose major league experience consists of 22 games.

Logan figured to land two guaranteed years, but it didn’t happen.

* The Orioles haven’t given up on adding a low-cost outfielder before opening day, but two

more came off the board yesterday when the Phillies agreed to terms with Chris Coghlan on a

minor league deal and the Reds neared an agreement with Desmond Jennings on a minor league

deal.

A phone-in guest last night on the “Hot Stove Show” on 105.7 The Fan, Adam Jones repeated

how the Orioles would benefit from improving their outfield defense. However, he also

understands the challenge with the roster mostly set.

“That’s the thing,” he said. “You have who you have, and there’s nothing against who we have.

But you have to go with what you have and be as good as you can with what you have.

“It’s no slap to anyone else, but when you had me, (Nick) Markakis and (Nate) McLouth, or me,

Markakis and (Alejandro) De Aza, let me know what happened. You see over in Boston when

you’ve got (Jackie) Bradley, (Mookie) Betts and when they have (Chris) Young out there and

when they have (Andrew) Benintendi. You look at Tampa, the athleticism that they have with

(Kevin) Kiermaier, (Steven) Souza and whoever they put in left. Then you go to New York with

(Jacoby) Ellsbury, (Brett) Gardner, who won his first Gold Glove and I’m so proud of that. I love

how he plays. And it’s an easy right field to play.

“I’m just saying you have to improve the defense. It’s no slap against anybody. You just have to

have elite defenders. That’s just part of baseball, like I said. It’s part of winning. You don’t have

David Price, Chris Sale, guys who are going out there and striking out 250 guys. Our defense is

used, which is great. But we just need to improve our defense.

“I don’t know what’s going to be implemented in spring training. I’m sure that they have

something they want to implement. I’m a team guy. I’m all ears to whatever they want to

implement and whatever they feel will get us better. I’m an employee. I’m not a boss of any sort,

I don’t make any decisions. I’m an employee with a strong opinion. That’s just my two cents.”

* The Orioles announced yesterday that flagship station 105.7 The Fan will broadcast 12 spring

training games, including the March 7 exhibition against the Dominican Republic representative

in the World Baseball Classic that includes third baseman Manny Machado.

The last three broadcasts will feature 30-minute pregame and postgame shows.

Here’s the full exhibition schedule:

Sunday, February 26 vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 1:05 p.m.

Wednesday, March 1 vs. Boston Red Sox, 1:05 p.m.

Thursday, March 2 vs. Minnesota Twins, 1:05 p.m.

Saturday, March 4 at Tampa Bay Rays, 1:05 p.m.

Tuesday, March 7 vs. Dominican Republic (WBC), 1:05 p.m.

Monday, March 13 vs. Philadelphia Phillies, 1:05 p.m.

Wednesday, March 15 at Pittsburgh Pirates, 1:05 p.m.

Tuesday, March 21 vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 1:05 p.m.

Wednesday, March 22 vs. Tampa Bay Rays, 6:05 p.m.

Saturday, March 25 vs. Minnesota Twins, 6:05 p.m.

Sunday, March 26 at Toronto Blue Jays, 1:07 p.m.

Monday, March 27 vs. Boston Red Sox, 1:05 p.m.

The station again will air all 162 regular season games. Joe Angel and Jim Hunter will pair up

for most of the radio broadcasts. Mike Bordick and Ben McDonald will rotate in as occasional

analysts.

Fred Manfra will work 11 home games as he retires from full-time duty after 24 seasons. His

schedule was reduced last summer, as well, for health reasons.

Hunter also will do play-by-play on numerous MASN broadcasts.

Also, the “Hot Stove Show” will continue to air each Thursday on 105.7 The Fan from 6-7 p.m.

through March 30. Beginning in March, all shows will originate from Sarasota until the final

broadcast.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2017/02/joseph-loses-arbitration-case.html

Joseph loses arbitration case (and signs one-year deal)

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

February 2, 2017

One arbitration hearing is in the books for the Orioles, with catcher Caleb Joseph coming out on

the losing end in St. Petersburg, Fla. The ruling was handed down today.

Joseph will be paid $700,000 instead of the $1 million that he sought. He made $523,500 in

2016.

In 49 games last season, Joseph batted .174/.216/.197 with three doubles and no RBIs. He missed

a month of the season after suffering a testicular injury that required surgery.

Joseph registered a .994 fielding percentage and threw out 31 runners attempting to steal.

The Orioles are 11-1 in hearings since Peter Angelos became majority owner, their most recent

win before today coming against outfielder Alejandro De Aza in 2015. The only loss came

against pitcher Ben McDonald in June 1995 after independent arbitrator Pat Hardin ruled that the

right-hander deserved the $4.5 million requested over the Orioles’ offer of $3.2 million.

McDonald attended the hearing, pitched that night and lost to Randy Johnson. He later said the

arbitration process was one of the worst experiences of his life despite the outcome.

Hearings no longer are held in the middle of a season. Joseph can continue to get ready for

spring training, with Orioles pitchers and catchers reporting to the Ed Smith Stadium complex on

Feb. 13.

Joseph is the early favorite to break camp as Welington Castillo’s backup, but he has a minor

league option that could work against him. Francisco Pena is out of options and presents a

legitimate challenge.

Matt Wieters remains on the free agent market, but it’s still deemed a longshot that the Orioles

re-sign him.

The Orioles face two more potential hearings, with starter Kevin Gausman on Feb. 7 and

reliever Brad Brach on Feb. 16.

FanRag Sports first reported the result of Joseph’s hearing.

http://www.masnsports.com/steve-melewski/2017/02/prediction-season-is-about-to-begin.html

Prediction season is about to begin

By Steve Melewski / MASNsports.com

February 3, 2017

Brace yourself, Orioles fans. The PECOTA projections are coming out next week and you know

what that means: probably a prediction of last place and a losing season.

Before the Debbie Downers around here rush to agree, you should remember that the system

seems to often miss the Orioles’ win total by a mile. The Orioles have won 444 games the last

five years to lead the American League. During that span, PECOTA predicted a total of 371

victories. The system has predicted five straight losing seasons for the Orioles in that time,

missing each time.

PECOTA, which stands for Player Empirical Comparison and Optimization Test Algorithm, is

Baseball Prospectus’ proprietary system that projects player performance based on comparison

with historical player seasons.

The system missed huge on the Orioles yet again in the 2016 season. The projection was for last

place in the AL East at 72 wins. The end result was a tie for second place, with 89 wins and a

wild card berth. Yep, not even close. Again.

PECOTA did project three of the six division winners last year, hitting on the Indians, Cubs and

Dodgers. It is just that the system doesn’t work for the Orioles. Here are the PECOTA

projections for the team since the 2012 season and the actual win total:

2012: 71 (won 93)

2013: 75 (won 85)

2014: 75 (won 96)

2015: 78 (won 81)

2016: 72 (won 89)

Maybe what Orioles fans really hope for next week with PECOTA is a projection of another

losing record, right?

Schoop-ing out an All-Star appearance: On “The Mid-Atlantic Sports Report” on MASN

yesterday, we briefly looked at Orioles that could be future All-Stars who have yet to make the

game.

I mentioned second baseman Jonathan Schoop as a possibility. Last year he hit .267/.298/.454

with 38 doubles, 25 homers and 82 RBIs. He had an OPS of .752.

At the All-Star break in 2016, Schoop was batting .304/.338/.509 with 23 doubles, 14 homers, 52

RBIs and an OPS of .847. That is one strong half of baseball, yet Schoop was not close to being

on the All-Star team.

Working against Schoop is that second base is a loaded position in the AL. Players such as Jose

Altuve, Brian Dozier, Robinson Cano, Ian Kinsler and Dustin Pedroia, to name just five, play the

same position. After hitting 25 homers and driving in 82 runs, Schoop ranked no better than 10th

in the AL in WAR among second baseman last season at 2.1.

Which Oriole do you predict could make his first All-Star team this year?

Norfolk’s “All-Star” team: Speaking of All-Stars, the Triple-A Norfolk Tides have announced

the final results of fan voting for the All-Harbor Park team. The team was voted on by fans on

the Tides Facebook page as part of a year-long celebration of 25 years of baseball at Harbor

Park.

The All-Harbor Park Team features a combined 22 major league All-Star appearances, four

International League postseason awards and four World Series appearances. Eight of the 14

members of the team appeared with the Tides as a Baltimore Orioles affiliate, while six of the 14

appeared with the Tides as a New York Mets affiliate.

The final results included the following players being selected for the team:

*Catcher: Matt Wieters - Four-time AL All-Star, two-time Gold Glove Award winner with the

Orioles

*First baseman: Christian Walker - Has the most home runs by a Tide as an Orioles’ affiliate

*Second baseman: Schoop - Has reached double digits in home runs in his first three major

league seasons

*Shortstop: José Reyes - Four-time National League All-Star with the Mets, 2011 NL batting

champ

*Third baseman: Butch Huskey - 1995 International League Most Valuable Player, highest vote-

getter

*Outfielder: Dariel Álvarez - Has the most hits and doubles by a Tide as an Orioles affiliate

*Outfielder: Jeromy Burnitz - 1999 National League All-Star with Milwaukee, finished major

league career with 381 home runs

*Outfielder: Ángel Pagán - 2012 World Series champion with San Francisco Giants

*Pitcher: Jake Arrieta - 2015 NL Cy Young winner, 2016 World Series champion with the

Chicago Cubs

*Pitcher: Zach Britton - Two-time AL All-Star, led AL with 47 saves in 2016

*Pitcher: Jason Isringhausen - 1995 International League Rookie and Pitcher of the Year, 300

career major league saves

*Pitcher: Chris Tillman - Threw a no-hitter with Norfolk in 2010, AL All-Star in 2013

*Utility: David Wright - Seven-time NL All-Star with Mets, second-highest vote-getter

*Manager: Ron Johnson - Tides franchise leader in managerial victories, 2015 IL Manager of the

Year.

The Tides will play their first game of their 25th year at Harbor Park on Friday, March 31 in an

exhibition contest against the Orioles. Norfolk will open its regular season on April 6 at

Charlotte, before starting its home portion of the schedule on Monday, April 10 with a 6:35 p.m.

game versus Gwinnett.

Babe’s bash is tonight: The Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum will host another “Babe’s

Birthday Bash” tonight. The event runs from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Diamond Tavern in the

Baltimore Hilton at 401 W. Pratt St. right near Camden Yards.

Former Orioles Scott McGregor, Chris Hoiles and Ross Grimsley are scheduled to be on hand,

along with MASN broadcaster Jim Hunter. They’ll be celebrating the upcoming Feb. 6 birthdate

for the Baltimore-born Bambino, whose 122nd birthday is approaching.

It’s one of the top events on the Baltimore sports calendar. I’ll be there and be part of a panel

discussion of the Orioles. To purchase tickets for tonight’s event, call 410-727-1539.

http://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/18612843/baltimore-orioles-sign-2b-johnny-giavotella-

minor-league-deal

Orioles add 2B Johnny Giavotella on minor league deal

By ESPN.com

February 3, 2017

The Baltimore Orioles announced the signing of free-agent second baseman Johnny Giavotella to

a minor league deal with an invite to spring training on Thursday.

Giavotella was the Los Angeles Angels' Opening Day second baseman the last two seasons after

four years primarily on the bench for the Kansas City Royals. The 29-year-old hit .260 with six

homers and 31 RBIs in 99 games last season before being designated for assignment in August.

In 2015, Giavotella hit .272 in 129 games for the Angels. Overall, the six-year veteran boasts a

.256/.295/.361 slash line in the majors.

http://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/18606094/catcher-caleb-joseph-loses-baltimore-orioles-

arbitration

Catcher Caleb Joseph loses to Orioles in arbitration

By Associated Press / ESPN.com

February 2, 2017

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Catcher Caleb Joseph lost his salary arbitration case with

the Baltimore Orioles after setting major league records for at-bats and plate appearances in a

season with no RBIs.

It is the Orioles' ninth straight salary arbitration decision in their favor over more than two

decades.

Joseph was awarded the team's $700,000 offer rather than his $1 million request in a decision

Thursday by arbitrators Mark Burstein, Steven Wolf and Gary Kendellen. They heard the case a

day earlier.

The 30-year-old Joseph hit .174 last year with three doubles in 132 at-bats and 141 plate

appearances. The previous highs for a player with no RBIs were set in 1971 by Chicago White

Sox All-Star pitcher Wilbur Wood with 96 at-bats and 124 plate appearances, according to the

Elias Sports Bureau.

Joseph made $523,500 last year and was eligible for arbitration for the first time. Clubs have

won two of the three decisions this year, with Boston pitcher Fernando Abad also losing and

Oakland outfielder Khris Davis winning.

Right-handers Kevin Gausman ($3.55 million vs. $3.15 million) and Brad Brach ($3.05 million

vs. $2,53 million) remain scheduled for hearings, which run through Feb. 17. Baltimore said it

would be a "file-and-trial" team, meaning it would not settle after the exchange of figures on Jan.

13.

Since losing to pitcher Ben McDonald in 1995, the Orioles have defeated pitcher Arthur

Rhodes (1996), outfielder Tony Tarasco (1997), catcher Charles Johnson (1999 and 2000),

pitcher Jose Mercedes (2001), pitcher Rodrigo Lopez (2006), pitcher Brad Bergesen (2012) and

outfielder Alejandro De Aza (2015).

https://www.pressboxonline.com/2017/02/03/orioles-ubaldo-jimenez-facing-crucial-year

Orioles' Ubaldo Jimenez Facing Crucial Year

By Rich Dubroff / PressBoxOnline.com

February 3, 2017

In many ways, it doesn't seem possible this could be Ubaldo Jimenez's final year with the

Orioles. But it's true; Jimenez is beginning the fourth year of the $50 million contract he signed

in February 2014.

The right-handed starter could be one of three free agents in the rotation. Right-hander Chris

Tillman is eligible for free agency this fall, and left-hander Wade Miley has a $12 million option

for 2018.

At last October's season-ending news conference, executive vice president of baseball operations

Dan Duquette said impending free agency often serves as an incentive for starters.

It certainly helped Jimenez become an Oriole.

In September 2013, Jimenez, then with the Cleveland Indians, was 4-0 with a sparkling 1.09

ERA, setting him up to cash in.

Jimenez has been a polarizing figure for fans during his first three years with the Orioles, but his

stats in Baltimore are nearly the same as they were during his three years with the Indians.

From 2011-13, Jimenez was 26-30 with a 4.45 ERA with Cleveland; he is 26-31 with a 4.72

ERA with the Orioles.

This kind, gentle Jimenez has always been accountable during his time with the Orioles. Even

when he's suffered on the mound, he's never once been curt or snarky with a reporter and always

accepted responsibility.

On Oct. 4, 2016, when he allowed the decisive home run to then-Toronto Blue Jays first

baseman/designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion in the Wild Card Game, Jimenez patiently faced

questioners.

His time with the Orioles has featured some highs. In 2015, Jimenez pitched creditably with a

12-10 record and a 4.11 ERA, but early last season, the Orioles had seen enough and were near a

deal with the San Diego Padres for outfielder Melvin Upton Jr.

After the trade fell through, Jimenez began pitching well, and in the second half of the season

had a 2.82 ERA -- a marked improvement from his 7.38 ERA in the first half.

In September/October, he was 3-1 with a 2.31 ERA, including the Orioles' first complete game

in two years and a crucial win in Toronto Sept. 29, when he allowed one hit in 6.1 innings.

"That's pretty much what I need to do, to be able to be there for the team, to find a way to be

consistent," Jimenez said at FanFest Jan. 28. "I think I'm going to be able to do that."

For much of the offseason, the Orioles looked as if they might have six starters, but Jan. 6, they

traded right-hander Yovani Gallardo to the Seattle Mariners, freeing Jimenez from possible

bullpen duty, a role he hasn't always embraced.

"I was surprised. Once you play with a guy, you feel like he's part of the team. It's not a good

feeling, but it's part of the game," Jimenez said.

Without Gallardo, who was injured early in the season and inconsistent when healthy, the

Orioles still have enough starting pitching with Tillman, right-handers Kevin Gausman and

Dylan Bundy and Miley, Jimenez said.

"Having those two guys, Kevin Gausman and Dylan, they have a lot of talent," Jimenez said. "If

they're capable of doing what they did last year, we're going to be in a good place. Tilly's been

the ace for the last four or five years, and for me, I just need to be consistent."

Free agency won't faze Jimenez, he said.

"I put a lot of pressure on myself to be the best I can every year," Jimenez said. "It doesn't matter

if it's the first or the last year. I'm trying to be the best I can for my teammates, for the fans, for

the team. For me, this year is all about staying healthy."

MANFRA CUTTING BACK: Fred Manfra, who has been broadcasting Orioles games since

1993, will call just 11 home games in 2017.

Manfra, who has had health problems in recent years, called a reduced schedule of about 50

games in 2016.

The Baltimore native has had a fun and difficult job through the years for the Orioles. The fun

has been broadcasting for his hometown team, and the difficult part has been for an

accomplished broadcaster to be the No. 2 behind Jon Miller, Jim Hunter and Joe Angel.

https://www.pressboxonline.com/2017/02/02/orioles-beat-caleb-joseph-in-arbitration-case

Orioles Beat Caleb Joseph In Arbitration Case

By Rich Dubroff / PressBoxOnline.com

February 2, 3017

In one of the most interesting arbitration decisions of the year, the Orioles won their case against

backup catcher Caleb Joseph.

Joseph, who failed to drive in a single run in 2016, was awarded $700,000, which is still a

healthy raise from the $523,500 he made last year. He asked for $1 million.

The Orioles have won all three cases argued since Dan Duquette became executive vice

president of baseball operations in November 2011, but two hearings are upcoming.

Arbiters will hear cases involving right-handed pitchers Kevin Gausman Feb. 7 and Brad Brach

on Feb. 16 in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Gausman, who made $532,000 a year ago, is asking for $3.55 million, a $400,000 difference

with the Orioles, whose offer is $3.15 million.

Brach, who was a first-time All-Star in 2016, is asking for $3.05 million, while the Orioles are

offering $2.525 million. He made $1.3 million in 2016.

Duquette indicated at FanFest Jan. 28 that the Orioles would not negotiate with the players set

for arbitration.

SPRING RADIO: The Orioles will broadcast 12 spring games on WJZ-FM, 105.7 The Fan. The

first of the broadcasts is Feb. 26 against Pittsburgh. The March 7 meeting with the Dominican

Republic's World Baseball Classic team will be broadcast.

Joe Angel and Jim Hunter will return as broadcasters. On occasion, they'll be joined by Mike

Bordick and Ben McDonald.

Longtime Orioles broadcaster Fred Manfra will call some home games.

CONNOLLY TALK: Baltimore Baseball.com's Dan Connolly, who contributes to PressBox

each month, is holding his annual Hot Stove baseball talk at Zion Lutheran Church in York, Pa.

at 7 p.m. Feb. 8.

Connolly will be joined by Orioles broadcaster Mike Bordick and Mel Antonen of MASN and

Sirius/XM.

No admission will be charged, but a freewill offering will be taken to benefit the church's

ministry program.

https://www.pressboxonline.com/2017/02/02/biggest-question-facing-orioles-hyun-soo-kim

Biggest Question Facing Orioles' Hyun Soo Kim

By Rich Dubroff / PressBoxOnline.com

February 2, 2017

There will be a different type of intrigue attached to Orioles left fielder Hyun Soo Kim this

spring. A year ago, the questions were about his ability to play in the United States, and now,

everyone is wondering if Kim can hit left-handers.

Last year, Kim suffered through a horrid spring training, failing to get a hit in his first 23 at-bats

and fighting the Orioles when they tried to send him to Triple-A Norfolk to begin the season.

His bad spring was quickly forgotten when he showed he could hit big league pitching.

Kim ended up with a .302 average and a healthy .382 OBP in 95 games. But he didn't play much

in the season's early weeks.

Despite hitting well in occasional appearances, Kim didn't start consecutive games until late

May. From then on, he played regularly against right-handers, but in his 17 at-bats against

lefties, he was hitless. That has to change.

"I always prepare for whatever the skipper asks me to do …whether it's right-handed or lefty,"

Kim said through his translator at FanFest Jan. 28.

"… I'm always confident that I can do anything as far as baseball. I will maintain that confidence

and take that into the field."

Kim played in the 2009 and 2013 World Baseball Classics for South Korea, but he came to the

U.S. a month early this year to prepare for spring training instead of playing in the 2017 WBC.

"I just wanted to work on my skills outside, because Korea is freezing. … So there's no way I can

practice out there," Kim said. "I just decided to get started early in the spring, where it's really

warm."

Everything was new for Kim last year. He wasn't used to his teammates, having reporters in the

clubhouse or any of the pitchers.

"It feels like home. This is totally different," Kim said. "… I know mostly everybody, and I'm

familiar with most of the places I go to, and I feel better than last year."

The adjustment of learning major league pitchers was difficult.

"I'm fully aware that American pitchers throw very hard fastballs, and they throw a lot of them,"

he said. "In Korea, I've seen a lot of breaking balls, which I was good at. Now I have to make

sure that I'm ready for those hard fastballs."

Kim provides a different skill set. His OBP easily led the team, and despite an ill-fated early

attempt in the spring to drive the ball, Kim decided to rely on what got him to the U.S.: his

ability to hit the ball to the opposite field and get on base.

"Aside from the power lineup, I'm one of the players who watches more pitches and tries to hit

the right pitches at the right time. I hope that I'm a good fit," Kim said.

The Orioles are still without a defined leadoff hitter, and while his high OBP is a good argument

for the role, his lack of speed isn't. He led off three times and most often batted second.

"It doesn't matter what hole I'm in," Kim said, "as long as I'm in the lineup."

Kim said he was well received in his country when he returned after last season. He's hoping

more South Koreans play in the majors.

"Rather than being too proud of myself, I will try to open up a way for future major leaguers

from Korea. Make sure that I do well and show that Korean batters actually can do it," Kim said.

"Give a chance for the scouts in America to bring more Korean players over so that they can play

here. That's my goal."

NOTE: The Orioles have agreed to a minor league contract with infielder Johnny Giavotella.

According to Fan Rag Sports' Jon Heyman, Giavotella, a second baseman, will receive a $1.1

million contract if he plays in the major leagues and has two opt-out dates, March 27 and July

31.

The right-handed Giavotella, who is 29, has a .256 lifetime average in six seasons with the

Kansas City Royals and the Los Angeles Angels.

He is expected to compete for a utility role, but Ryan Flaherty, who is a left-handed hitter and far

more versatile, has the advantage.

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/02/03/longest-tenured-oriole-adam-jones-joins-hot-stove-

show/

Longest Tenured Oriole Adam Jones Joins Hot Stove Show

By CBS Baltimore

February 3, 2017

Adam Jones, the longest tenured Baltimore Oriole, joined the Orioles Hot Stove Show.

Jones is going into his tenth season with the Baltimore Orioles and as he usually signs off on his

tweets, he’s “staying hungry.”

It’s good to be competitive, but Jones knows it’s more than that. He wants a championship, a

parade and maybe even a statue. Jones says, “this is my 10th year, it’s my own personal dynasty

with the Orioles and it would be great with the last two years left to grab a championship.”

Jones also talks about his outlook on the defense for the Orioles and how it could improve.

Jones also talks about meeting Mo, our longtime 105.7 The Fan longtime caller! Tune in to the

full interview below:

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/02/03/orioles-beat-catcher-joseph-for-9th-straight-arbitration-

win/

Orioles Beat Catcher Joseph For 9th Straight Arbitration

Win

By CBS Baltimore

February 3, 2017

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — The Baltimore Orioles won their ninth straight salary

arbitration decision over more than two decades, defeating catcher Caleb Joseph.

Joseph, who set major league records for most at-bats and plate appearances in a season with no

RBIs, was awarded the team’s $700,000 offer rather than his $1 million request in a decision

Thursday by arbitrators Mark Burstein, Steven Wolf and Gary Kendellen. They heard the case a

day earlier.

Since losing to pitcher Ben McDonald in 1995, the Orioles have defeated pitcher Arthur Rhodes

(1996), outfielder Tony Tarasco (1997), catcher Charles Johnson (1999 and 2000), pitcher Jose

Mercedes (2001), pitcher Rodrigo Lopez (2006), pitcher Brad Bergesen (2012) and outfielder

Alejandro De Aza (2015).

The 30-year-old Joseph hit .174 last year with three doubles in 132 at-bats and 141 plate

appearances. The previous highs for a player with no RBIs were set in 1971 by Chicago White

Sox All-Star pitcher Wilbur Wood with 96 at-bats and 124 plate appearances, according to the

Elias Sports Bureau.

Joseph made $523,500 last year and was eligible for arbitration for the first time.

Clubs have won two of the three decisions this year, with Boston pitcher Fernando Abad also

losing and Oakland outfielder Khris Davis winning.

Right-handers Kevin Gausman ($3.55 million vs. $3.15 million) and Brad Brach ($3.05 million

vs. $2,525,000) remain scheduled for hearings, which run through Feb. 17. Baltimore said it

would be a “file-and-trial” team, meaning it would not settle after the exchange of figures on Jan.

13.

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/02/02/catcher-caleb-joseph-loses-to-orioles-in-arbitration/

Catcher Caleb Joseph Loses To Orioles In Arbitration

By CBS Baltimore

February 2, 2017

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Catcher Caleb Joseph lost his salary arbitration case with the

Baltimore Orioles after setting major league records for most at-bats and plate appearances in a

season with no RBIs.

Joseph was awarded the team’s $700,000 offer rather than his $1 million request in a decision

Thursday by arbitrators Mark Burstein, Steven Wolf and Gary Kendellen. They heard the case a

day earlier.

The 30-year-old Joseph hit .174 last year with three doubles in 132 at-bats and 141 plate

appearances. The previous highs for a player with no RBIs were set in 1971 by Chicago White

Sox All-Star pitcher Wilbur Wood with 96 at-bats and 124 plate appearances, according to the

Elias Sports Bureau.

Joseph made $523,500 last year and was eligible for arbitration for the first time. Clubs have

won two of the three decisions this year, with Boston pitcher Fernando Abad also losing and

Oakland outfielder Khris Davis winning.

Right-handers Kevin Gausman ($3.55 million vs. $3.15 million) and Brad Brach ($3.05 million

vs. $2,525,000) remain scheduled for hearings, which run through Feb. 17. Baltimore said it

would be a “file-and-trial” team, meaning it would not settle after the exchange of figures on Jan.

13.

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/02/02/105-7-the-fan-to-broadcast-12-orioles-spring-training-

games/

105.7 The Fan To Broadcast 12 Orioles Spring Training

Games

By CBS Baltimore

February 2, 2017

BALTIMORE (WJZ) — The Orioles and 105.7 The Fan, the flagship station of the Orioles

Radio Network, are happy to announce that 12 Orioles Spring Training games will be broadcast

in 2017.

The schedule begins with the home opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday, February

26, at 1:05 p.m. ET.

The broadcast schedule also features eight additional home games in Sarasota, including the

March 7 game against Manny Machado and the Dominican Republic team as part of the World

Baseball Classic exhibition schedule.

The final three broadcasts will feature 30-minute pre-game and post-game shows.

105.7 The Fan will again broadcast all 162 Orioles regular season games this season.

In addition to the Spring Training schedule, 105.7 The Fan will take the Norris & Long Show on

the road to Sarasota between March 13 and March 17.

Broadcasting live from Ed Smith Stadium from 5:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily, the show will provide

fans with an all-access look inside Spring Training with a robust slate of guest interviews and

Orioles analysis.

The “Hot Stove Show” on 105.7 The Fan will continue to air every Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to

7:00 p.m. through February 23 live from Dempsey’s Brew Pub & Restaurant.

The complete schedule of Spring Training games to be carried live on 105.7 The Fan is below.

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2017/02/02/joseph-goes-to-arbitration-after-record-for-abs-with-

no-rbis/

Joseph Goes To Arbitration After Record For ABs With No

RBIs

By CBS Baltimore

February 2, 2017

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Backup catcher Caleb Joseph went to salary arbitration with

the Baltimore Orioles after setting major league records for most at-bats and plate appearances in

a season with no RBIs.

Joseph asked arbitrators Mark Burstein, Steven Wolf and Gary Kendellen for a raise from

$523,500 to $1 million, and the Orioles argued during Wednesday’s hearing he should be paid

$700,000. A decision is likely Thursday.

The 30-year-old Joseph was eligible for arbitration for the first time after hitting .174 last year

with three doubles in 132 at-bats and 141 plate appearances. The previous highs for a player with

no RBIs were set in 1971 by Chicago White Sox All-Star pitcher Wilbur Wood with 96 at-bats

and 124 plate appearances, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

There were instances before RBIs became an official statistic in 1920 in which players with 100

or more at-bats failed to drive in a run, according to baseballreference.com: pitcher Oscar Jones

of the 1904 Brooklyn Superbas (137 at-bats, 150 plate appearances), outfielder Gene Good of the

NL’s 1906 Boston Beaneaters (119/135) and outfielder Bobby Messenger of the 1909 Chicago

White Sox (112/130).

Joseph had 49 RBIs in 2015, the last when he hit a pair of run-scoring grounders against Kansas

City on Sept. 11. His last run-scoring hit was an RBI single off Toronto’s David Price that Sept.

5.

Right-handers Kevin Gausman ($3.55 million vs. $3.15 million) and Brad Brach ($3.05 million

vs. $2,525,000) remain scheduled for hearings, which run through Feb. 17. Baltimore said it

would be a “file-and-trial” team, meaning that it would not settle after the exchange of figures on

Jan. 13.

In the first two decisions of the year, outfielder Khris Davis defeated Oakland and pitcher

Fernando Abad lost to Boston. Nineteen other players remain scheduled for hearings.

http://mlb.nbcsports.com/2017/02/02/caleb-joseph-loses-arbitration-case-with-the-orioles/

Caleb Joseph loses arbitration case with the Orioles

By Bill Baer / NBCsports.com

February 2, 2017

Catcher Caleb Joseph lost his arbitration case with the Orioles on Thursday, Jon Heyman of

FanRag Sports reports. He requested $1 million while the Orioles countered at $700,000. The

arbitrator agreed with the Orioles’ figure. Historically, arbitrators have been more likely to side

with teams over the players, so this result is not surprising.

Joseph, 30, hit .174/.216/.197 with three doubles in 141 plate appearances last season for the

Orioles. He finished the season with zero RBI, becoming the first player to take at least 100 at-

bats without driving in a run.

Though the Orioles let Matt Wieters leave for free agency, they brought in Welington Castillo,

so Joseph again figures to contribute in a back-up role.

http://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2017/02/03/myriad-orioles-thoughts-josephs-salary-arb-wins-

manfras-legacy/

Myriad Orioles thoughts: Joseph’s salary; arb wins;

Manfra’s legacy

By Dan Connolly / BaltimoreBaseball.com

February 3, 2017

Catcher Caleb Joseph lost his arbitration hearing, it was reported Thursday, meaning he’ll make

$700,000 in 2017 instead of the $1 million his side had requested.

That still represents a salary increase of $176,500 from last year.

And, because of that, there are plenty of outraged fans who just don’t care about the “baseball is

business” aspect of this.

Joseph’s salary rose almost $200,000 despite the fact he had one of the worst offensive seasons

in recent memory – hitting .174 with a .216 on-base percentage and a .197 slugging percentage.

He famously – or infamously – went the whole season without homering or recording a RBI. He

had three doubles and 20 singles, but never drove home a run in 141 plate appearances, the most

through a full season without a RBI in baseball history.

So, I heard from plenty of people over the past few weeks about how they were incensed that

Joseph wouldn’t just take the $700,000 offered, be overjoyed and quietly move on. Several

people described Joseph as “greedy.”

Well, I’ve known Joseph for years. I would use all kinds of words to describe the quirky reserve

catcher; greedy would not be one. It might be one of the last to come to mind, honestly. Heck,

this is a guy that was working Regular Guy winter jobs—like delivering packages during

Christmastime — throughout his professional career because he needed to make ends meet.

There may be no player that appreciates being in the majors more than Joseph, who spent seven

years in the minors before making his big-league debut in 2014.

Now, I will say this: If I were dispensing advice to Joseph, I would have told him to settle with

the Orioles before arbitration figures were exchanged and a trial approached. Frankly, it’s not

worth the bad PR – and the “greedy” tag — to have a chance at a few extra hundred thousand

(which, ultimately, he didn’t get).

But I’m not his advisor. And, obviously, Joseph’s camp viewed this as a routine exercise in the

business of baseball. In 2014, Joseph filled a huge void when Matt Wieters was injured. He

started three games in the playoffs – and made the league minimum. So, his first year of

arbitration would be viewed as a bit of a market correction for his career, and not reflective of

just one poor offensive season.

Joseph has played in 231 games for the Orioles in the past three years, and has gotten paid the

league minimum or around the league minimum throughout his tenure. So, this was his first

chance to make more, and his side obviously felt his past offensive contributions (he did homer

20 times in his previous two seasons) and solid defensive work should put him into the seven-

figure hierarchy.

An arbitration panel disagreed, but Joseph still gets a good raise – a great one in the real world –

for his efforts. Everyone will move on, and I don’t expect this to affect Joseph at all as he

competes for a catcher spot this spring. So, no harm, no foul. Just business.

I’m just not sure some fans will view it as simply as that. And that’s a dynamic I’m sure has been

acknowledged and accepted by Joseph and his advisors as they were preparing their case.

O’s rule arbitration land

I’ve written it before. I’ll write it again, No one out-lawyers the Orioles. No one. With their

victory over Joseph, the club is now 11-1 in arbitration hearings since attorney Peter Angelos

became majority owner of the team.

They haven’t lost since 1995, when Ben McDonald and his agent, Scott Boras, were victorious.

It can be a nasty process, but the Orioles view arbitration as part of the sport. They have two

more potential hearings: One next week with Kevin Gausman and one the following week with

Brad Brach.

I still wonder if those two go to hearings, but the Orioles said on filing day – and Dan Duquette

reiterated Saturday – that they took the “file and trial” philosophy this year. Given the Orioles’

track record, that makes plenty of financial sense.

Manfra no longer a full-time announcer

As part of a news release detailing the 2017 spring training schedule on 105.7 The Fan, the

Orioles announced that long-time play-by-play announcer Fred Manfra will no longer be a full-

time broadcaster and will only do a few games on radio next year.

Joe Angel will continue to do play-by-play and Jim Hunter will team with Angel for most games,

but will also have some MASN TV responsibilities. Former Orioles Ben McDonald and Mike

Bordick will also do some in-game radio analysis in 2017.

Manfra, 70, has been dealing with health issues – prompting hip and back surgeries — for the

past couple years, and his schedule had been truncated. So, this news comes as no surprise.

But it also bears mentioning, from professional and personal standpoints.

Manfra, a Baltimore guy and Patterson High grad, had been a full-time Orioles broadcaster for

24 seasons. He connected with a generation of Orioles’ fans, speaking to them in their cars and

in their backyards. He was a huge part of the Orioles’ fan experience.

I’ve always thought Manfra was an underrated broadcaster. He was sort of the Scotty McGregor

or Mike Cuellar of the Orioles’ broadcast staff. He worked with Chuck Thompson and Jon Miller

and Joe Angel, and he may not have had the same flourish and flair as those three all-timers. But

boy was Manfra steady. And, boy, did that deep, rich voice make you think of summer.

I had the pleasure of getting to know Fred over the years. And, believe me when I say this, I’m

not sure I’ve encountered a kinder, more professional man in this business. Simply put, he’s a

good person who represented the Orioles with class and dignity for decades.

Two years ago, Manfra was the guest speaker at my charity Hot Stove Talk in York, Pa. Not

coincidentally, it was the largest crowd we ever had. Afterward, a large chunk of the audience

stayed to shake Manfra’s hand and get photos. Many told him how much they enjoyed putting a

face with the voice they knew so well.

I guess I didn’t realize the impact that radio broadcasters still have in this world of mind-

numbing technology. It was a cool moment for me. Almost a flashback to the 1970s and my

childhood, when Thompson and Bill O’Donnell taught me baseball.

Manfra painted baseball’s picture on a nightly basis for so many. He did it effortlessly and

eloquently. He’ll be missed.

http://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2017/02/02/minor-league-podcast-jason-garcia-becoming-

dad-working-brady-anderson-preparing-2017/

Minor League Podcast: Jason Garcia on becoming a dad;

working out with Brady Anderson; preparing for 2017

By Dan Connolly / BaltimoreBaseball.com

February 2, 2017

In fewer than two weeks, pitchers and catchers will be warming up in Sarasota, Fla.

Right-hander Jason Garcia will be one of them. He almost certainly won’t make the 25-man

roster out of camp, like he did when he was a Rule 5 pick in 2015,

But Garcia’s a guy to keep an eye on for 2017 – because of his talent, experience and versatility.

And because of his youth.

Garcia, who turned 24 in November, is the second youngest pitcher on the Orioles’ 40-man

roster, one day older than Jayson Aquino and about a week younger than Dylan Bundy.

Garcia spent most of the season as an Oriole in 2015, with manager Buck Showalter trying to

pick his spots to get the rookie some experience. Garcia appeared in 21 games, all in relief, with

a 4.25 ERA while walking 17 and striking out 22 in 29 2/3 innings.

In 2016, he was sent to Double-A Bowie with mixed results. He had some good games,

especially toward the end of the season, when he posted a 2.64 ERA in six August starts. But he

also struggled with his command at times, going 6-10 with a 4.73 ERA in 24 starts with the

Baysox. He struck out 74 batters and walked 54 in 123 2/3 innings.

He was called up to the majors in 2016 as an emergency fill-in, but wasn’t needed and went back

to Bowie.

Adam Pohl, the voice of the Baysox, saw all of Garcia’s starts last year. And, in this segment of

our “Minor League Podcast,” Garcia tells Pohl what he thinks went right and why he believes

he’ll build on those things in 2017, whether it’s in the minors or the majors, as a reliever or a

starter.

In preparation for this season, Garcia has been working out with Orioles’ vice president Brady

Anderson in California. Garcia gives a little glimpse into those workouts (which he’s been doing

with another 24-year-old pitching prospect, Chris Lee).

It was also an exceptionally impactful offseason for Garcia, who became a father for the first

time. He talks with Pohl about that – and about how he’s actually missing changing diapers.

Definitely some good stuff here from a pitcher who could see time in the majors in 2017. So,

give it a listen.

http://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2017/02/01/bordick-antonen-featured-guests-hot-stove-talk-

york/

Bordick and Antonen are featured guests at ‘Hot Stove Talk’

in York

By Dan Connolly / BaltimoreBaseball.com

February 1, 2017

A week from today – Wednesday, February 8 at 7 p.m. — I’ll be hosting my seventh annual Hot

Stove Talk at Zion Lutheran Church, 2215 Brandywine Lane, in York, Pa.

I’ve had some pretty good guests over the years, but I’m particularly excited about this year’s

lineup.

MASN color commentator Mike Bordick, a 14-year big leaguer who is in the Orioles’ Hall of

Fame, is our featured guest. Bordick has a unique insight into these Orioles; he broadcasts their

games, but he also has worked with many of the players as a spring training instructor.

Bordick will join me and Mel Antonen, MASN panelist, Sirius/XM host and SI.com writer.

Antonen has been doing this with me for five years now, and we have a whole lot of fun. We’ll

discuss our thoughts on the upcoming season for the Orioles and for Major League Baseball in

general. There’s a whole lot of give and take during the event.

It’s basically a question-and-answer session for fans, and there are always so many questions that

we have to eventually call it a night. It’s a free event, but there is a freewill offering with all

donations going toward the church’s youth programs.

I can’t stress how much this talk has blossomed over the years into something both the presenters

and the audience seem to enjoy as the beginning of spring training approaches. And it’s for a

good cause. There also will be inscribed copies of my Orioles’ book for sale if you really can’t

get enough baseball in February.

So, come join us next Wednesday, if possible.

For more information, contact the church at 717-767-4673 or visit its website.

http://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2017/02/01/radio-chatter-washingtons-signing-vance-worley-

orioles-loss/

Radio chatter: Washington’s signing of Vance Worley is

Orioles’ loss

By Dan Connolly / BaltimoreBaseball.com

February 1, 2017

I hosted my second radio show on WOYK 1350 (in York, Pa.) Tuesday night, and, let me tell

you, I’m really getting the hang of this broadcasting thing.

OK, not really.

For the second consecutive week, I went nearly 10 minutes longer than scheduled. I think it’s

because we’re presenting such interesting content, and not simply because I’m verbose (my wife

may argue otherwise).

You can listen to the whole show here – even the extra innings part — or download it as a

podcast from iTunes.

Tuesday’s show featured a chat with my buddy Mel Antonen, a panelist on MASN’s Mid-

Atlantic Sports Report, a Sirius/XM Radio host and a long-time baseball writer.

Mel and I knocked around several topics Tuesday. But the one that intrigued me the most was his

take on the Washington Nationals signing of long reliever Vance Worley. He thinks the Orioles

made a mistake not retaining Worley. And I agree – especially at the modest price tag.

Worley, 29, is not one of those dominating big-league pitchers who is going to carry you through

the World Series. But he can serve an important role during a long season – particularly for an

Orioles’ staff that is so fluid.

Last season, Worley appeared in 35 games, starting four and finishing 13. He had a 3.53 ERA in

86 2/3 innings. “The Vanimal” always wanted the ball, never shying away from any situation.

Eight times he pitched three or more innings in relief, allowing the bullpen to live another day.

Long reliever may be the most overlooked spot in baseball – rivaling situational lefty, utility

infielder and backup catcher – but it can be invaluable. Given the way the Orioles use their

bullpen, and the 2016 rotation’s difficulty to pitch deep into games, Worley earned his $2.6

million last year. He would have made more than $3 million in 2017, so the Orioles decided not

to tender him a contract and, instead, acquired Logan Verrett, a younger and cheaper righty who

has some experience in long relief.

When a team expects to shatter its franchise record for payroll, it faces tough secondary choices,

and so Worley ended up as a salary casualty. It happens.

In fact, it happened last year when the Orioles decided not to pay Miguel Gonzalez his full salary

and cut him in March. Gonzalez had a solid season with the Chicago White Sox and the Orioles

spent much of last year looking for a fifth starter.

Perhaps the most frustrating thing about Worley’s departure, however, is that it didn’t take much

for the Nationals to land him. He reportedly signed a minor-league deal that will pay him $1

million if he makes the club and includes $1.65 million in potential incentives. So, if everything

goes right for Worley, he’ll make about what he did in 2016.

It makes you wonder why the Orioles couldn’t have topped that in guaranteed salary. The most

likely answer is the club likes the flexibility it has with players such as Verrett and Tyler Wilson,

who can be moved up and down from Triple-A to the majors without being exposed to waivers.

I get roster flexibility. I get the desire to keep payroll down by spending less for potentially the

same production. But I also believe in track records and guys who have done a specific – and

difficult — job effectively in the recent past.

I think, given the eventual financial terms, not retaining Worley was a mistake. Antonen believes

the same thing. We, of course, have been wrong before. At least you won’t have to switch the

TV channel around here in 2017 to see which team made the right call.