Orioles 2020 Season Preview
Ready to check out our 2020 Baltimore Orioles predictions? As global uncertainty unfolds, a certain optimism sparks when considering the sporting world’s return. Notions of indulging in the great American pastime bring simple, profound order amid current events. This Baltimore Orioles projection is written as much to comfort eyes as it is to consider the franchise’s immediate outlook. With that in mind, let’s dive into the 2020 Orioles’ depth chart, slated win total and pipeline as we anticipate familiar sounds and sights within MLB’s ballparks.
MLB Orioles Predictions & Handicapping Insight
Sporting the AL East’s worst record at 54-108 last Autumn, Baltimore improved slightly upon its 47-win 2018.
Behind Trey Mancini and Jonathan Villar, the Orioles split their final 10 outings vs. MLB’s winningest 2019 division: as a competitive highlight, Brandon Hyde’s men spoiled elite AL plans last July, going 12-12 that month.
Yet, as is the case with most rebuilding franchises, Baltimore opted to move a prized bat, and dump salary, for return prospects this offseason.
After registering 24 home runs, 74 RBI and a .274 batting average, utility infield star Jonathan Villar was sent to the Miami Marlins for lefty project Easton Lucas.
With his cornerstone partner gone, Trey Mancini leads another fledgling O’s squad bent on improvement among MLB’s prime division. Mancini finished 2019 slashing .291/.364/.535 while adding 35 home runs and 97 RBI.
Designated hitter Renato Nunez joined Mancini’s power surge with 31 home runs and 91 RBI. Both will need similar output to lift a downgraded roster from the AL East floor.
2020 MLB Team Previews – Baltimore Orioles
- Baltimore Orioles 2020 American League East Odds: 250/1
- Orioles 2020 American League Odds: 500/1
- Orioles 2020 World Series Odds: 1000/1
Key Additions:
- Pat Valaika
- Richard Urena
Entrenched in build up mode, the above list reflects Baltimore’s current direction. With player development, salary cap flexibility and front office growth all prioritized, offseason signings underwhelmed.
Utility pinch-hitter Pat Valaika became the O’s top winter signing by default after batting .258 during 110 games in 2017. The 27-year-old hinted at sustainable MLB service before falling to a .190 average with Colorado last season.
Valaika’s fringe numbers from 2018 onward cast his lot among a free-agency pool where Baltimore claimed his rights.
Flashing a .293 average through 40 major league games in 2018, utility infielder Richard Urena looks to claim an expanded role with Baltimore. Last season, through just 80 plate appearances, Urena’s average declined to .243, making him expendable.
Again, seeking low-risk, high-reward types, Baltimore quickly offered the prospect a contract. Urena figures to join a respectable Orioles pipeline seeking 2020 MLB milestones.
Key Losses:
- Johnathan Villar
2020 Baltimore Orioles Predictions: Projected Lineup:
- 1B Chris Davis
- 2B Hanser Alberto
- 3B Rio Ruiz
- SS Jose Iglesias
- RF Trey Mancini
- LF Anthony Santander
- CF Austin Hays
- DH Renato Nunez
- C Chance Sisco
The Orioles look to unproven, yet regarded potential to help Alberto and Mancini break from AL East basement status. It will be interesting to see how Sisco, Nunez and Hays respond.
2020 Baltimore Orioles Predictions: Projected Rotation:
- John Means
- Alex Cobb
- Asher Wojciechowski
- Kohl Stewart
Following lengthy minor league service, John Means emerged last summer with a 12-11 (3.60 ERA) rookie All Star bid. Means carried a challenged Orioles’ staff while receiving little run support.
More of the same is expected from Means as veteran RHP Andrew Cashner became trade-deadline material for the Red Sox.
No other names rise among Baltimore’s projected starting rotation. Perhaps Alex Wojciechowski can regain credible workhorse form after marginal seasons and injuries.
However, the Orioles’ filler rotation is shaky. Kohl Stewart remains untested. And career minor leaguer Asher Wojciechowski went 4-8 last year with a 4.92 ERA.
2020 Baltimore Orioles Predictions: Projected Closer:
- Mychal Givens
Mychal Givens paces an unproven bullpen for closer honors after earning 11 saves during 58 games and 63 innings last year. The 29-year-old RHP began his MLB service with an 18-2 record to establish himself as a rising middle reliever. Since that time, unfortunately, Givens’ record is 2-13.
That stated, touted rookie Hunter Harvey is lined for consideration as O’s finisher should Givens continue backsliding. Making good during his one MLB start, Harvey is 1-0 (1.52 ERA) vs. live major league bats.
Though, his consideration for the job further exposes Baltimore’s bare roster.
2020 Baltimore Orioles Predictions 52 wins and 5th Place AL East (Bet Now at any of our reviewed MLB Sportsbooks!)
Buried beneath perennial World Series contenders NYY and Boston, don’t expect much growth from this year’s Orioles. After trading Dylan Bundy and Villar, expect slight regression and an Under 54 win total -most books place Baltimore at 54 victories despite their key personnel changes and flat offseason.
However, even as losses again find triple digits for the Birds, pockets of value will emerge for a roster boasting a few proven names and ripe prospects.
What do you think of our 2020 Baltimore Orioles predictions? Comments are welcome below.
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