O’s fans by now are well aware of Dan Duquette’s infatuation with the Rule 5 draft. The most recent draft back in December was yet another shining example of his love affair when the Orioles selected not one or two, but THREE pitchers. Only one other team, the Marlins, made multiple selections in the draft, and they made just two selections.
The Orioles were certainly in need of pitching depth last offseason; but, going into the season with a bullpen full of stalwarts including Zach Britton, Brad Brach, Darren O’Day, and Mychal Givens, along with some other returning arms, there didn’t appear to be enough roster spots for the Rule 5 draftees.