Question: Will the Orioles be shopping once again in the bargain basement during free agency, or pick up whatever they can via Rule 5 draft? From: David Gilbert
Answer: David, I think the Orioles will spend aggressively during the offseason. I’m not sure how much they’ll spend, but I’m confident they’ll spend much more than they have over the last five years.
As for the Rule 5 draft, they didn’t pick a player in it last year, and it’s possible they won’t pick one this year. With a good team, it’s hard to set aside a roster spot for a player who can’t be sent to the minors, so unless they have a prospect they think is special, they’ll probably skip the Rule 5.
Question: Why don’t the O’s send higher-rated prospects to the Arizona Fall League? Do they not see the benefit of this competition? From: Peter Earls
Answer: Pete, the Orioles generally use the Arizona Fall League for prospects they think need more game action. This year, they sent catcher Creed Willems, their 22nd-rated prospect.
Willems missed time this season with a hamstring injury and played 98 games at High-A Aberdeen and Double-A Bowie, and did well with Surprise in the AFL, hitting .338 with two home runs and 11 RBIs in 19 games.
While most of their big-name prospects never played in the AFL, Heston Kjerstad, who needed more reps, was sent there in 2022 and did brilliantly.
They don’t necessarily believe that players who’ve had full minor league seasons in their first year or two of professional ball will benefit from more game competition.
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.