Orioles fans needed to search hard for something to be excited about during spring training. But the outfield situation presented a glimmer of hope. Top prospect Yusniel Diaz raked. Austin Hays proved his health. Anthony Santander showed the promise that made the Orioles want to stash him as a Rule 5 pick. DJ Stewart was coming off a September call up where he hit well.
Despite the talent and spring performance of this group of young outfielders, the new regime in Baltimore reminded us that they are taking the long view despite declaring that spring training would be an open competition.