Just like the lack of a frontline starter, the inability of the Orioles front office to provide the team with a suitable leadoff hitter is a tradition that goes back several years. Ever since Brian Roberts started to have recurring injury issues in 2010, the name at the top of the lineup card has been a revolving door. Things are no different heading into the 2018 season.
It was announced at FanFest in January that not only would Tim Beckham be swapping positions with Manny Machado, but the former Tampa Bay Rays player would also become manager Buck Showalter’s preferred leadoff option.