Amidst the flurry of reports and rumors surrounding the MLB trade deadline, the Baltimore Orioles find themselves at the center of attention. With three prospects ranked in the top 20 by ESPN, speculation is rife that any of them, along with others, could be traded for bullpen support before the July 30th deadline.
In a recent article for Bleacher Report, Joel Reuter identifies slugger Connor Norby as the Orioles’ most probable trade candidate. Norby, holding the sixth spot on the Orioles’ prospect list, has observed several of his Triple-A teammates receive big-league calls this season.
There’s doubt about his chances of playing time on the Baltimore roster, given that his main positions are occupied by regular starters. Reuter noted on May 23, “Connor Norby is currently playing alongside some of those teammates at Triple-A. While he’s proven himself in the minors, there’s no clear path for him to secure playing time at second base or in the outfield.”
In 41 games with the Norfolk Tides, Norby boasts a batting line of .301/.385/.543 with a stellar .928 OPS, including 9 home runs and 30 RBIs.
Elias remarked that Norby is quite the subject of discussion.
When the Orioles opted to send Jackson Holliday back to Triple-A following a disappointing 10-game stretch with the team, it was Ryan McKenna, a seasoned veteran, who filled his spot on the roster.
During a press briefing, Baltimore’s general manager, Mike Elias, discussed the decision and shared insights on Norby’s progression. “Connor is showing great progress,” Elias informed reporters on April 26. “It seems like he’s been in Triple-A for quite some time, but he’s actually advanced rapidly. He’s diligently honing his defensive skills, not only at second base but also in the corner outfield positions. The fact that we’re frequently discussing him is a positive indication.”
Drafted in the second round in 2021, Norby has amassed 188 games in Triple-A, surpassing the totals of Colton Cowser (114), Gunnar Henderson (65), Heston Kjerstad (101), and Jordan Westburg (158) – all of whom have received the call-up to the major leagues that Norby eagerly awaits. However, what sets Norby apart is his proficiency at second base, a position not covered by the aforementioned prospects.
Is Norby Hindered by a Crowded Roster?
According to Reuter’s theory, Norby might remain in the minors due to the Orioles’ depth in their roster. He primarily plays second base but also fills in the outfield, which isn’t any less competitive outside of Baltimore.
The Orioles boast a strong outfield lineup led by Cowser, Mullins, and Santander, with Hays and O’Hearn also in the mix. Breaking into this lineup is challenging for any prospect.
At second base, Westburg holds the starting position, with Mateo emerging as the secondary choice lately. Urias, the starting third baseman, occasionally fills in as well.
Just like Kjerstad’s limited appearances before being sent back to Triple-A, and Stowers’ sporadic playing time after replacing him, Norby might face a similar situation. Both Kjerstad and Stowers, designated outfielders, saw limited action despite their MLB call-ups.
Norby’s prolonged stint with the Norfolk Tides, now nearing his 189th appearance, could be due to this competition. Alternatively, the Orioles might consider trading him to a team in need of his position, possibly in exchange for relief help.
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