The Orioles arrived in Sarasota this year with greater expectations and higher standards. There are fewer competitions than previous years, and several prospects appear close to breaking down the door.
Baltimore acquired James McCann to eliminate the backup catcher competition before it started. Lewin Díaz, Ryan O’Hearn, Franchy Cordero and others are battling for a bench spot that may or may not exist. Anthony Santander went unscathed at first base earlier this week, and McCann, Adley Rutschman or even Terrin Vavra could play first in a pinch.
The infielders are all accounted for with only positions and playing time up in the air.