First, there was a rush of optimism as fans learned more about new Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias and new man in charge of analytics, Sig Mejdal. The optimism continued to rise as young prospects like Austin Hays, Yusniel Diaz, and Ryan Mountcastle came out of the gate firing in spring training.
Then the Baltimore Orioles started playing against more major league regulars, the top prospects were sent to the minor leagues, intriguing young players like Chance Sisco, Anthony Santander, and Tanner Scott were optioned to AAA, Mark Trumbo went from more regular playing time to the 60-day injured list, and Opening Day starter Alex Cobb was shelved with a groin injury.