Quick notes -- Marlins 11, Orioles 6
Final score: Marlins 11, Orioles 6
Thumbs up
Chad Moeller -- The 34-year-old veteran catcher was 2-for-2 with two RBIs against the Marlins, which gives him three hits for the spring. Moeller is batting .167 (3-for-18) with one run scored and two RBIs in 11 Grapefruit League games. That's hardly an impressive line, but the competition for the backup catcher spot is still wide open. If Moeller plays well over the final two weeks, he'll likely make the Opening Day roster.
Scott Moore -- After taking over for Melvin Mora at third base today, Moore was 1-for-1 with a single. He is hitting .333 (14-for-42) with three home runs and six RBIs in 19 games during the spring. The 25-year-old infielder continues to hit in Florida, which bodes well for a future opportunity in the major leagues. It probably won't happen at the beginning of the season, but Moore needs to succeed for the Triple-A Norfolk Tides in 2009.
Thumbs down
Robby Hammock -- The 31-year-old catcher was 0-for-1 with a walk in today's game. Hammock hit into one of the Orioles' five double plays against the Marlins. He showed his versatility again by shifting to left field late in the game. For the spring, Hammock is batting .292 (7-for-24) with four RBIs. I'm not sure what the Orioles are considering for the backup catcher spot, but I'd strongly consider keeping Hammock in that role.
Hayden Penn -- Well, it's not looking good for Penn's chances to make the starting rotation at the beginning of the season. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed seven runs and five hits in 2 2/3 innings. He collected four strikeouts and issued three walks in the outing. In six Grapefruit League appearances (one start), Penn is 0-2 with an 8.78 ERA. Since he is out of options, the Orioles will be faced with a difficult decision regarding the young pitcher at the end of the spring.








Comments
As stated previously, just because you trade for a player, do you still play him when he isn't the best defensive guy, plus hitting .200, his backup, Freel, is also hitting .200, & Montenez, hit well last year, & is hitting close to .400, is going to Norfolk?
I was prepared to root for D. Trembly, but he seems to be stuck on certain guys, & can't see the forest, because the trees are in the way.
Posted by: JOE CARPER | March 28, 2009 10:59 AM