ON Top 50 Prospects – #9: Parker Bridwell
A three sport star in high school (football, baseball & basketball), Parker Bridwell signed for an over-slot bonus of $625,000 as the Orioles’ 9th round selection in the 2010 draft. Now that he’s focusing on one sport the projectable righty has the ability become a serious threat on the mound.
Shorebirds Release 2011 Roster
The Shorebirds have released their 2011 roster, including: Michael Ohlman, Justin Dalles, Manny Machado, Mychal Givens, Jonathan Schoop, Brenden Webb, Trent Mummey, Jarret Martin, Luis Noel, Tim Berry and more.
ON Top 50 Prospects – #10: Bobby Bundy
Entering the 2008 MLB Draft, Bobby Bundy was though of as first round talent. However, he suffered a knee injury during his senior year of high school and, as a result, saw diminished velocity which pushed him down draft boards. After he slipped to the 8th round, the Orioles scooped him up and still gave him a $600,000 bonus, which is equivalent to second round money.
ON Top 50 Prospects – #11: Matt Hobgood
Possibly the most controversial prospect in the system, Matt Hobgood has taken a lot of heat for what has gone on throughout his career. It all started on the day he was drafted when critics accused the Orioles of drafting Hobgood just because they could sign him for slot. The Orioles argued, saying Hobgood was #4 on their board based on pure talent.
ON Top 50 Prospects – #12: Tyler Townsend
When the Orioles drafted Tyler Townsend in the third round of the 2009 MLB Draft they knew they had a guy who could hit for both power and average. After all, he did hit .426 with 24 home runs in a record setting 2009 season with FIU. However, it was unclear how his college stats would translate to the pros. Though it’s a small sample size, his bat hasn’t slowed down one bit since the transition to pro ball and the results have been nothing short of impressive.
ON Top 50 Prospects – #13: Ryan Adams
Ryan Adams was sent home for disciplinary reasons during 2009 and hadn’t been able to prove himself above the South Atlantic League because his season was cut short. When the Orioles jumped Adams to Bowie after just 59 games at Frederick, Adams was out to show what he can do with the bat, which some have compared to Brian Roberts.
Sunday News and Notes
Detailing Brian Matusz‘s injury, Adam Jones‘ comment on Nick Markakis‘ game saving catch, a look at the minor league rosters and more.
ON Top 50 Prospects – #14: Clayton Schrader
A move to the bullpen was all that was necessary for Clayton Schrader to evolve from a fringe draft prospect to a possible major league closer. He transferred to San Jacinto from UT San Antonio prior to the 2010 season and really saw his stuff and overall game take a huge leap.
ON Top 50 Prospects – #15: Joe Mahoney
Joe Mahoney entered 2010 as nothing more than a fringe first base prospect, but ended the year as one of the most talked about names in the Orioles’ organization. He’s always been known for having the highest vertical jump in the system despite standing a towering 6′ 6″. But 2010 was the year where he turned his potential and athletic ability into consistent performance.
