Question: Now that the team has its manager and coaches in place, what is the process for the new staff to begin meeting and working with the players? I suspect the manager makes calls to players, but do the coaches suggest what they would like to see a player work on before coming into camp? From: Kevin Gish
Answer: Kevin, Ryan Helsley wasn’t specific about it, but he indicated in his introductory video call that he’s talked with the Orioles about some things to work on.
Yes, I think that the manager and coaches have checked in, especially the pitching coaches since they’re returning.
This is something we can certainly talk with manager Craig Albernaz about next week at the Winter Meetings since we’re eager to find out his impressions of the players.
There are 11 confirmed members of the coaching staff, but it’s not totally in place yet. That should be happening soon.
Question: What future do you see for outfielder Jud Fabian? From: W Simonds, Sarasota
Answer: Jud Fabian was the 67th overall pick of the Orioles in 2022. I recently had a similar question on Max Wagner, who was chosen ahead of Fabian in the second round of that draft.
The 25-year-old Fabian isn’t among the Orioles’ Top 30 prospects, according to MLB Pipeline, and he wasn’t protected ahead of next Wednesday’s Rule 5 draft.
His issue is strikeouts. Last season, he struck out 136 times in 109 games for Triple-A Norfolk, hitting only .183 with 15 home runs and 39 RBIs.
He has some power, but he won’t be a major league prospect unless he makes more consistent contact.
Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.