While the priority of a minor league club is to develop prospects, the Bowie Baysox will have a veteran roster this year, which could help them compete along the way.
The Baysox, who host the Akron Aeros in their home opener tonight, have a veteran-based roster that could allow them to compete in the 12-team Eastern League. The Baysox entered last night?s series finale at Reading at 3-2.
Contending isn?t uncommon for Bien Figueroa, Bowie?s new manager. Figueroa, who takes over for departed manager Don Werner, guided Single-A Frederick to the Carolina League playoffs in each of the past two seasons, including a league championship in 2005. He entered 2007 with a 254-230 record in four seasons as a manager in the Orioles? system.
He’ll have some top prospects, including three Examiner Top-10 Orioles prospects ? outfielder Nolan Reimold and right-handed pitchers Radhames Liz and Jim Hoey.
Bowie’s outfield likely will be a strength, both offensively and defensively. Aside from Reimold and his burgeoning power, left-handed hitters Val Majewski and Jeff Fiorentino boast major league experience in Baltimore. Matt Cepicky and Bubba Trammell (currently on the disabled list) both have major league experience, as well.
The infield is deep, and the most interesting prospect may be Luis Hernandez, who was claimed on waivers from the Braves in October 2006. First baseman Brandon Sing should add some veteran sock to the middle of the lineup, having belted 124 home runs in 772 career minor league games. But after a lengthy spring training with the Orioles, Sing is batting .095 through five games.
The rotation has a nice mix of finesse and power arms, led by Liz, who was in camp with the Orioles and possesses a mid-90s fastball. He willbe joined by former first-round pick Beau Hale, and minor league veterans Oscar Alvarez, Craig Anderson and Chris Waters.
Hoey, who made an appearance with the Orioles last fall after a rapid ascent from Single-A Delmarva, will anchor the bullpen as Bowie?s closer. Right-hander Fredy Deza and lefty David Haehnel are part of an intriguing group of arms that will form a bridge to Hoey.
With a 67-74 record, the Baysox finished in fourth place in 2006.
BAYSOX HOME OPENER
» Akron Aeros (2-0) at Baysox (3-2)
» Where: Prince George’s Stadium
» When: Tonight, 7:05
