The Baltimore Orioles have defied the odds with their remarkable rebuild in recent years. From suffering 115 losses in 2018 to emerging as one of the top teams in baseball with a solid farm system, the Orioles have truly turned things around. Their impressive 101-win season in the American League East last year was a testament to their hard work and dedication to player development.
Their farm system has produced a slew of talented young All-Stars like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Jordan Westburg. The next wave of prospects, including Jackson Holliday and Coby Mayo, have also recently made their mark in the big leagues. Many organizations looking to rebuild have taken notes from the Orioles’ success, particularly in the development of young hitters.
However, the Orioles have kept their rebuilding blueprint under wraps. While there are various theories about their strategies, some guiding principles stand out. The organization underwent significant changes under the leadership of Mike Elias, with a focus on hiring new talent and creating a competitive environment throughout the minors. This shift in culture has been instrumental in their player development success.
Matt Blood, the vice president of player development and domestic scouting, emphasized the importance of aligning organizational values with player acquisitions and coaching strategies. The Orioles focused on acquiring players with specific skills and provided resources to reinforce those skills effectively.
Gunnar Henderson was one of four Orioles hitters who made the All-Star team. (Nick Cammett / Getty Images)
The Orioles’ success with young hitters has sparked curiosity in the baseball community. While the organization does not explicitly draft for Vertical Bat Angle (VBA), their approach to player development has led to impressive results. By focusing on adjustability, swing paths, and making informed swing decisions, the Orioles have cultivated a lineup of versatile and potent hitters.
Analysis of the Orioles’ approach reveals a multi-faceted strategy that includes weighted bat training, live pitching sessions, and data-driven techniques. The players’ commitment to improving their skills and the organization’s emphasis on creating a competitive training environment have been key factors in their success.
Overall, the Orioles’ player development model serves as a valuable lesson for other organizations aiming to rebuild successfully. The combination of strategic hiring, player acquisition, and coaching methods has transformed the team into a powerhouse in baseball. As they continue to refine their approach, the Orioles remain a prime example of effective rebuilding in the baseball world.
(Top photo of Jackson Holliday: Cole Burston / Getty Images)
