I was at yesterday’s GCL Orioles game and will be at their next two home games as well. The Orioles defeated the GCL Red Sox 11-4. Here are some notes from the game…
Adrian Marin was impressive. He showed some fluid actions at shortstop and displayed a line drive swing. His pitch recognition was solid and on one occasion waited back on a curveball and drove it up the middle for a base hit. He’s a fun player to watch.
Hader has some projection left in his frame.
Hector Veloz started at 3B for the Orioles. He has some pop and put that on display with a home run. Veloz looks a lot bigger than the 6′ 2″, 192 he’s listed as, but actually displayed some range at third base. His actions are stiff but he has a strong arm.
Domingo Salas made the start for the O’s and sat 91-93 mph with his fastball. He also mixed in a high 80s two-seamer, 82-86 mph breaking ball, and a changeup. He has a clean delivery and good drive towards home plate.
Box scores don’t always accurately indicate how impressive a player’s performance was, but Josh Hader‘s six strikeouts in 3.1 innings displays how well he pitched.
Hader’s arsenal includes an 89-91 mph fastball, curveball, slider, and changeup. He has a very deceptive delivery and hides the ball well. Hader’s fastball command was on point, but he had some difficulty controlling his slider and left it out over the plate. His curveball is the better breaking pitch, as his slider is a bit too flat at this stage.
A spoke with a scout who said Hader’s stuff “can play in the majors”. He came away impressed with the lefty, calling him “the best pitcher” he’s seen on the GCL Orioles squad. The scout also believes Hader can start.
The Orioles may have gotten a steal in Hader, who was a 19th round pick this year and signed for $40,000.
Janser Severino didn’t have the greatest command today, but sat 94-97 mph with his fastball.
