With Opening Day just less than three weeks away, we’ll take a look at a member of the 2015 Orioles every day as they try to defend their American League East title this season.
March 9 – Adam Jones
March 10 – Chris Tillman
March 11 – J.J. Hardy
March 12 – Zach Britton
March 13 – Chris Davis
March 14 – Wei-Yin Chen
March 15 – Jonathan Schoop
March 16 – Travis Snider
March 17 – Kevin Gausman
OF Alejandro De Aza
Opening Day age: 30
Contract status: Under club control through the 2015 season
Minor-league options remaining: Need player permission to option due to five years of major league experience
2014 stats: .252/.314/.386, 8 HR, 41 RBI, 56 R, 17 SB, 528 PA
Why to be impressed: The left-handed hitter provided a spark for the Orioles down the stretch after coming over from the White Sox, posting an .877 on-base plus slugging percentage in 89 plate appearances. His speed can be an asset as he’s expected by many to take over the leadoff spot against right-handed pitching and has stolen 79 bases in his career.
Why to be concerned: De Aza’s overall OPS has declined steadily from .920 in 2011 to just .700 last season, and he walked just 39 times a year ago, which isn’t exactly what manager Buck Showalter is looking for at the top of the order. His defense is better at the corner outfield spots than in center, but De Aza has profiled as a below-average defensive player in his career.
2015 outlook: De Aza was a good starting outfielder in 2011 and 2012, but his career path has been declining ever since, making it concerning if the Orioles entrust him with a near-everyday role. He’ll provide some speed and reach double digits in homers, but an OPS in the low .700s, mediocre defense, and struggles against left-handed pitching aren’t qualities you’re looking for in a starting outfielder on a contending club.
