It became evident last summer that Luis Hernandez was a major league-quality defensive shortstop.
But in the offseason, he focused on getting stronger and to improve his offensive tools. Now, with his first Opening Day as a major league starter under his belt, Hernandez is getting comfortable as the Orioles? everyday shortstop.
“I?m really excited to bethere,” Hernandez said of winning the job in spring training. “Now I?m excited to be out there everyday. I hope I can do it for a very long time.”
Hernandez, 23, said he came into spring training a bit slower afoot, and nearly lost the position to utility man Brandon Fahey. But Trembley is committed to playing Hernandez at short regularly, and Hernandez noted the confidence he feels the team has in him.
The Orioles signed veteran middle infielder Alex Cintron to a minor league contract Monday, and optioned him to Triple-A Norfolk.
Still, Hernandez isn?t concerned about playing time.
Trembley committed to playing Fahey at least once in the homestand, which culminates Monday after a four-game series with Seattle. Trembley also made it clear that Hernandez?s .250 career minor league average won?t come into consideration with the switch-hitter?s playing time.
“Whatever he gives us offensively is a bonus,” Trembley said. “Defensively is what I?m looking for.”
TREMBLEY STEPS AWAY ON OFF DAY: Tuesday was a legitimate day off for Trembley. There was no coming to the ballpark or worrying about the day-to-day aspects of being the Orioles? manager.
“A lot of non-baseball activities: move into the apartment, buy some groceries,” Trembley said of how he spent his day off. “I think about baseball all thetime.”
The Orioles will have April 21 off, and just 18 days without a game in the 162-game schedule. Trembley will spend each one of those days thinking about baseball.
“I?m still not old enough to play golf,” Trembley said. “I do baseball. That?s it. What else is there for me to do?”
