Baseball America published their top 20 South Atlantic League prospects today and the Orioles’ top two position prospects, Manny Machado and Jonathan Schoop, were ranked.

Machado ranked at #2 on the list, coming in behind only Bryce Harper. They noted Machado’s plus bat, above-average defensive tools and quoted a scout saying “He has everything you want from a shortstop.”

BA ranked Schoop #9 and noted his good command of the strike zone, ability to play second or third base, and quoted a scout saying “I liked him as much as any player we saw this year. His upside is impressive.”

Pitcher Cam Roth receives Elrod Hendricks Community Service Award

Salisbury, Md. – The Shorebirds are pleased to announce that 2011 infielder Jonathan Schoop was named the Brooks Robinson Minor League Player of the Year by the Orioles on Monday. Pitcher Cam Roth was honored with the Elrod Hendricks Community Service Award.

Schoop opened the 2011 season as the everyday third baseman for the Shorebirds. In 51 games, he batted .316 with eight home runs and 34 RBIs. Schoop proved a very consistent hitter, stringing together a 16-game hit streak between May 1 and May 17. He recorded a hit in 43 of 51 games with the Shorebirds.

The 19-year old was promoted to the Frederick Keys on June 5. In 77 games for the Keys, he batted .271 with five homers and 27 RBIs. Schoop picked up his play in the postseason, recording 11 hits, a home run and four RBIs in nine games. He was a critical component in helping the Keys win the Carolina League Championship.

Schoop was named the Orioles Minor League Player of the Month in August, hitting .336 with four homers and 21 RBIs.

Signed by the Orioles as a non-drafted free agent in August of 2008, Schoop will represent the Netherlands at this year’s International Baseball Federation World Cup competition, which will be held in Panama.

Shorebirds pitcher Cam Roth was honored with the Elrod Hendricks Minor League Community Service Award. Roth assisted with numerous appearances around the Eastern Shore and always represented the Shorebirds in a positive light. Roth displayed a friendly approach with fans and was always eager to help the Shorebirds whenever called upon.

Former Shorebirds manager (2009), Orlando Gomez, was the recipient of the Cal Ripken Sr. Player Development Award, presented to a minor league staff member who exemplifies the qualities of the late Oriole who is regarded as the architect of “The Oriole Way”.

For more information about the Shorebirds, contact us at 410-219-3112.