Just like every other Orioles season over the last six years, the 2017 season began with J.J. Hardy penciled into the starting lineup on a nightly basis. Since acquiring the then 28-year-old from Milwaukee via highway robbery in 2010, Hardy has been a familiar presence at shortstop for the O’s.
Between 2011 and 2014, Hardy averaged over 145 games each year, putting his glove and bat to good use on a daily basis. In 2015 and 2016, J.J. continued appearing in over 110 games per year, but began dealing with a litany of injuries.