In the next couple of weeks as the Orioles’ season winds down, I will be going back and looking at some players from the 2012-2016 era and breaking down their contributions. Today’s player: Nelson Cruz.
Late into the offseason before the 2014 season, the Orioles made a surprising signing.
The @Orioles sign OF Nelson Cruz to a 1-year contract; designate LHP Chris Jones for assignment.
— MLBRosterMoves (@MLBRosterMoves) February 24, 2014
This one took me by surprise. After the Orioles voided the Grant Balfour deal due to his physical results, the 2014 season was looking bleak for the Orioles.