World Champions 1983, 1970, 1966

American League Champions 1983, 1979, 1971, 1970, 1969, 1966 American League East Division Champions 2014, 1997, 1983, 1979, 1974, 1973, 1971, 1970, 1969

American League Wild Card 2012, 1996

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Columns:

What could 2016 hold for the Orioles' minicamp pitchers? The Sun 1/12

'No pressure' for pitchers as Orioles observe them during minicamp in Florida The Sun

1/11

Dylan Bundy, Hunter Harvey declare themselves healthy as Orioles minicamp opens The

Sun 1/11

Buck Showalter 'wouldn't be surprised' if Chris Davis decision isn't until March The Sun

1/11

For Orioles, this offseason is turning into a game of Chris Davis roulette The Sun 1/11

Dylan Bundy, Hunter Harvey report to Orioles minicamp healthy The Sun 1/11

Orioles interested in bringing Gavin Floyd to minicamp for tryout The Sun 1/11

Jason Garcia enters minicamp with plenty to prove after 'exhausting' 2015 The Sun 1/11

Orioles in waiting mode regarding Davis MLB.com 1/11

Bundy, Harvey healthy at O's minicamp MLB.com 1/11

Looking back on the first day of minicamp MASNsports.com 1/12

More Orioles notes and quotes from today's minicamp MASNsports.com 1/11

Orioles again expressing interest in Gavin Floyd (plus other notes) MASNsports.com

1/11

Bridwell healthy and eager for spring training MASNsports.com 1/11

Updates on Hunter Harvey and Dylan Bundy MASNsports.com 1/11

A take on the remaining free agent pitching market MASNsports.com 1/12

Buck Showalter pleased by minicamp's popularity CSN Mid-Atlantic 1/11

Orioles considering local product Gavin Floyd CSN Mid-Atlantic 1/11

Dylan Bundy will have to start in bullpen if he's healthy CSN Mid-Atlantic 1/11

Harvey says he's ready to pitch in 2016 CSN Mid-Atlantic 1/11

Dylan Bundy Could Be Wild Card For 2016 Orioles PressBoxOnline.com 1/11

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-what-could-2016-hold-for-the-orioles-

minicamp-pitchers-20160111-story.html

What could 2016 hold for the Orioles' minicamp pitchers?

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

January 12, 2016

If history is any indicator, the second day of the Orioles’ annual January minicamp for their

young pitchers is the most eventful day of the trip. As many as seven pitchers will throw

bullpens for the major league coaching staff, a big jump from the low-key opening day Monday.

The first day was mostly housekeeping — health updates from former first-round picks Dylan

Bundy and Hunter Harvey, and catching up with some of the bigger names in attendance like

Jason Garcia. Now, the fun seems set to start. And by fun, I mean updates on players who only

the diehards in Salisbury, Frederick and Bowie are familiar with.

If you want to get a little background on these players before they start popping up on your

Twitter timeline or populating your newspaper pages, here’s a rundown of where each stood

entering minicamp, and what 2016 might hold for each.

Major league experience

Whether in Baltimore or elsewhere, these guys have been there before and likely have

expectations to be there again. This is the pool of players who bring major league experience

Dylan Bundy – Bundy’s major league debut was essentially a big candy bar at the end of a long

2012 season in which the Orioles made him eat his vegetables, manage his innings and throw his

changeup. He has thrown 63 1/3 innings since then, thanks to a year missed with Tommy John

elbow reconstruction, the ensuing rehab and then shoulder soreness last season. Manager Buck

Showalter said he was impressed with how Bundy has handled his latest setback, this time a sore

forearm during the Arizona Fall League. But Showalter said Bundy's innings limit this year

would be anywhere between 40 and 70 this season, which indicates it will be in the Orioles

bullpen where he’ll at last be able to make his mark this year if he’s healthy. It’s either that or

be exposed to waivers, as Bundy is now out of options.

Mychal Givens – Last year’s out-of-nowhere contributor to the Orioles bullpen, Givens' story

has been well told, especially at the one-year anniversary of his adjustments at minicamp that

helped him harness his mid-90s fastball from his unique arm slot. With better command of his

fastball, all of his pitches improved, as his diving changeup and sweeping slider all looked the

same out of his hand. It’s a lot to ask a player with 188 2/3 professional innings under his belt to

be a key cog in the major league bullpen already, but Givens likely is a shoo-in to get that

chance.

Jason Garcia – The 2015 Rule 5 selection has put a tumultuous season behind him and is back

in competition for a bullpen spot on the major league roster in 2016. Unlike last year, however,

he doesn’t have to stay on the 25-man roster all year or be returned to the Boston Red Sox.

Garcia has all three of his minor league options remaining, giving the team a good deal of leeway

in his assignments this year. That should allow him to potentially build his confidence back up so

he can more effectively use his fastball-slider combo in the Orioles bullpen for years to come.

C.J. Riefenhauser – Acquired along with first baseman Mark Trumbo for catcher Steve

Clevenger, Riefenhauser gave up twice as many home runs per nine innings (1.4) in his brief

major league career over two seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays as he did in his minor league

career (0.7). His minor league stats indicate the 6-foot left-hander knows how to get batters out.

He has a 1.094 WHIP and a good strikeout rate (8.4 per nine innings) in his minor league career,

making him a good candidate to be the newest left-hander in the bullpen.

Jeff Beliveau – Coming off shoulder surgery from last season, Beliveau could be the veteran

left-hander the Orioles have join Brian Matusz in the bullpen. His last full season before the

injury (2014), he struck out four times as many batters as he walked en route to a 2.63 ERA in 30

major league games.

'Pen pieces

This group contains some of the players who could, as Showalter said, come from out of nowhere

to pitch in his bullpen this season. These players are all at varying stages in their careers, but

shouldn’t be forgotten.

Tanner Scott – The Orioles’ recent draft classes haven’t had too many immediate standouts, but

Scott is one of them. He blew through the low minors and was a standout in the Arizona Fall

League with a fastball in the high-90s from the left side. Every team can use a guy like that. That

he’s already working primarily as a reliever puts him on track to move quickly should his results

start matching his stuff.

Ashur Tolliver – Tolliver is another member of the 2009 draft class headed by Givens that had

only its first member reach the major leagues last season. Tolliver has overcome serious shoulder

injuries to regain fastball velocity that jumps on hitters from a left-handed delivery that’s a little

unconventional, though not nearly as much as Donnie Hart’s. Tolliver is already 27, but is

coming off his best season since the shoulder surgery in 2012 and is on Showalter’s radar as one

to watch in this year’s minicamp.

Donnie Hart – A rare three-level player in 2015, the left-handed Hart climbed from Low-A

Delmarva to Double-A Bowie last year as he learned to hone his relatively new sidearm delivery.

He has only been throwing that way for three years. While he has always been excellent

against left-handed batters, who have hit a career .182 against him, right-handers hit .239 off him

last year, a career low. Without premium velocity, he’ll need to be fine in his command and

control. But coaches say he’s a smart pitcher who maximizes his skill set. Even if he starts

at Double-A, his is a name that will be in the big league conversation before long.

Andrew Triggs – One of three pitchers added to the 40-man roster this offseason, Triggs was

protected for his big frame, deceptive delivery, control and ability keep the ball in the park. Even

in Bowie, which has seen its fair share of balls fly out, Triggs struck out over a batter per inning

and didn’t allow a home run all season. If you could simply throw some cash the other way and

acquire a possible bullpen piece who a year later would be knocking on the door of the majors,

as the Orioles did in getting Triggs from the Kansas City Royals, that’s a deal you take every

day.

Sticking as starters

You never know with this group, but unless I see something different than the organization does

or there’s a dire need to get their arms into the bullpen to contribute sooner, these minicamp

participants at least project to begin 2016 in starting rotations at various stations of the minor

leagues.

Parker Bridwell – The owner of one of the best secondary pitches in the entire system — his

changeup — Bridwell too was added to the 40-man roster because that and his fastball alone

probably would allow him to stick in a major league bullpen now. He was the most durable arm

in the system until elbow soreness ended his season last August, but Bridwell says he’s good to

go now. He’s probably on the fringe of a promotion to Triple-A Norfolk, but as long as he’s

getting starter innings and working on whatever he wants his third pitch to be as a starter,

Bridwell is on the right track.

Chris Lee – Lee arrived in the Orioles organization last summer for international bonus slots,

and if he keeps progressing like he has since then, that might look like a steal. The Orioles got

his whole athletic frame involved in his delivery instead of just his live arm, and he added

several miles per hour to his fastball in the process. The same kind of development for his

secondary pitches will keep him in the starting rotation and make him a typical undervalued

Orioles find.

Hunter Harvey – If his health had broken right, Harvey might be in contention for a call-up this

season after his sterling full-season debut. He was one of the game’s top pitching prospects and

was cruising through the South Atlantic League at age 19 with an above-average fastball and

slider, plus a developing changeup. Then forearm issues ended his 2014 season and kept him

from pitching a game in 2015, and he has yet to pitch at High-A Frederick. If Harvey still has his

feel for his breaking ball and can let his fastball go, he’ll erase all the sadness of last

season quickly.

David Hess – Hess’ aggressive placement in Frederick in his first full season proved a learning

experience in the first half, as he carried a 5.83 ERA with a 1.45 WHIP at the All-Star break. He

was a different, more complete pitcher in the second half, and will likely return to Double-A

Bowie to continue to build his innings. One of the best arms in the system shouldn’t be moved to

the bullpen just yet.

Ariel Miranda – The 27-year-old Cuban left-hander took some time to get acclimated

to American baseball last year, and managed 70 regular-season innings. Miranda has a wide

array of pitches, but without one or two that stand out and can carry him to the majors, his best

bet is more time to rack up innings as a starter in the minors and grow into whatever the Orioles

hope he’ll be in time.

Joe Gunkel – Acquired last year from Boston for outfielder Alejandro De Aza, Gunkel was just

what the Baysox rotation needed last year — an effective innings-eater with a bit of upside. He

made 17 regular-season starts for the Baysox, and pitched at least five innings in 16 of them. He

doesn’t have a huge strikeout rate, but keeps the ball down and has a fastball that jumps on

hitters because of his release. His future might be in the bullpen, but it’s better for his

development and frankly for the organization to let him stay a starter for the time being.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bs-sp-orioles-minicamp-0112-20160111-story.html

'No pressure' for pitchers as Orioles observe them during

minicamp in Florida

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

January 11, 2016

It's one thing to be told that something is informal and largely unstructured, as the Orioles' young

pitchers who traveled south for the team's annual January minicamp were advised before the

three-day session began Monday.

Then, as young right-hander Joe Gunkel did, you volunteer to throw a rare outdoor bullpen on

the opening day of the camp, in far warmer climes than your native Pennsylvania, and find

you're on a very short list.

"I thought more people would be wanting to throw bullpens today," he said, shrugging after a

brief session on the mound on a day when nearly everyone else merely worked out. "They said,

'The only person throwing is Joe.' OK, everyone come watch me now."

Others, like newly acquired pitchers C.J. Riefenhauser and Jeff Beliveau, threw off flat ground.

The rest played catch and worked out under the eye of the organization's training and coaching

staffs.

The message was simple: Let this be what you need it to be, and let it jump-start the season that's

fast approaching.

"There's no pressure in this situation," Gunkel said. "They make it clear that no one is making a

team in this thing. They're just trying to get to know guys, and we're all down here having fun."

"Some of them won't even throw," Orioles manager Buck Showalter said. "This is [pitching

coach Dave Wallace's] thing, and we've done it for a while. It's a great exercise that our

ownership allows us to do that a lot of clubs don't.

"This is completely voluntary … but the reputation of the camp has gotten around and people

like coming. It's very low-key but it immeasurably helps us get on with business when we start in

February, as opposed to wasting three or four days or a week trying to figure out where we are."

Where the 14 pitchers and two catchers were in their preparations varied, but in finding out

where they stand in January, Showalter said, they avoid surprises when they arrive.

It was good, for instance, to see 2011 first-round draft pick Dylan Bundy with the team, he said.

Bundy lost all of 2013 to Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery, returned for part of 2014,

then dealt with shoulder tendinitis and forearm tightness in 2015, but said he's healthy. He is

only throwing off flat ground during the minicamp and is scheduled to throw his first bullpen in

preparation for an important 2016 season next week, he said.

Fellow top pitching prospect Hunter Harvey, who has had tightness in his forearm on and off and

hasn't pitched in a game since July 2014, already has a few bullpen sessions under his belt as he

gets ready to return to the mound in 2016 and make up for lost time.

Bundy and Harvey did some early conditioning work together Monday, partners in expectations

paired together doing running drills, while other teammates paired up for quick games of catch

before many retreated inside to the weight room.

Others were in different parts of their offseason programs, too. Left-handers Donnie Hart and

Tanner Scott finished up in the Arizona Fall League in mid-November, and were on different

timetables than former teammates whose last true games were the end of the affiliated schedule

in September or the Fall Instructional League a few weeks later.

Not far away, Gunkel and Riefenhauser worked in a bullpen under the watchful eyes of Orioles

coaches, scouts, and executives. Showalter said Beliveau, who had shoulder surgery last year,

threw as part of his rehabilitation.

Gunkel, acquired last season from the Boston Red Sox for outfielder Alejandro De Aza, said it

wasn't the most comfortable situation to throw in, but eventually it becomes another bullpen.

Riefenhauser, a left-hander who came to Baltimore in November from the Seattle Mariners in a

trade for catcher Steve Clevenger, threw off flat ground in front of his new coaches. He typically

spends his Monday mornings throwing at a facility near his Mahopac, N.Y., home, then takes the

10 a.m. Metro-North train into Manhattan to work out.

He, too, won't throw off a mound until next Monday, but didn't mind throwing for such an

audience so early in his preparations.

"After talking to those guys, they were just saying, 'Take your time here,'" Riefenhauser said.

"'This is just to get to know everybody, let us know you and see how things go with that.' Tampa

[Bay] did something similar, they called it the rookie camp or something, but this is a little more

hands-on. We're training, weight room, we're throwing, stretching, stuff like that."

It's not all informal, however. Many attendees will throw some kind of bullpen before departing

Wednesday, save for the ones who are coming off injuries or had extended seasons in the

Arizona Fall League. As many as seven could throw today.

And in doing so under the supervision of Wallace and major league bullpen coach Dom Chiti,

the young pitchers get attention they wouldn't normally get from the top coaches in the

organization.

Last year, reliever Mychal Givens rode an adjustment to his sidearm delivery made during

minicamp from Double-A all the way to the major league bullpen.

Showalter mentioned a few pitchers, including right-hander Andrew Triggs and left-handers

Chris Lee, Ashur Tolliver, and Ariel Miranda, as some he hoped to see throw in Sarasota before

he departs tonight for an engagement in Baltimore.

Those are just a handful of the intriguing names at the camp, including power right-hander David

Hess, plus Hart and Scott. Four pitchers who attended the minicamp a year ago — Givens,

Oliver Drake, Tyler Wilson and Mike Wright — made their major league debuts in 2015.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bs-sp-orioles-minicamp-notes-0112-20160111-

story.html

Dylan Bundy, Hunter Harvey declare themselves healthy as

Orioles minicamp opens

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

January 11, 2016

A pair of promising young pitchers whose recent arm troubles have dimmed their prospect

shine, Dylan Bundy and Hunter Harvey, reported that they are completely healthy at the outset

of Orioles minicamp Monday morning.

"Dylan's not going to throw off the mound, he's just playing long toss," Orioles manager Buck

Showalter said after the first day of work at the Ed Smith Stadium complex. "That's where he is

in the program. He's going very maturely and smart, where he may not have been as much in the

past. I'm impressed with how he's handling where the finish line is. Reminds me of some of the

challenges with Harvey. Hunter's wanting to be right [there]. Hunter's already thrown four times

off the mound, his father told us."

Bundy, the Orioles' 2011 first-round draft pick, threw just 22 innings over eight starts at Double-

A Bowie before a calcium buildup in his shoulder caused tightness that kept him off the mound

for the rest of the season in 2015.

He returned briefly for the Arizona Fall League, but was scratched before his third start with

forearm tightness.

Bundy said that "wasn't a big deal" and his long-toss program at home in Oklahoma was already

well underway.

Because he has thrown just 63 1/3 minor league innings over the past three seasons after Tommy

John surgery, he knows his limitations will keep him to the Orioles bullpen if he makes the team.

He has no minor league options remaining, so they must keep him on the 25-man roster all

season or risk losing him.

"I expected if I make that team, that's where I'll be is the bullpen because of my innings lately,"

Bundy said. "The past couple years I haven't thrown many innings, so I can't really be a 200-

innings starter. So yeah, being in the bullpen anywhere in the big leagues, I'll take any position

and I'll be fine."

Harvey, the team's 2013 first-round pick, hasn't thrown in a game since July 2014. That season

ended with a flexor mass strain in his throwing arm — a typical precursor to serious elbow

injuries — but he had a clean bill of health when he returned for spring training last year.

But a comebacker fractured his leg, and he said he came back too quickly from that and

developed elbow issues that cost him the entire season.

Harvey said he feels "pretty good so far," having thrown for a month and a half at home,

including three live bullpen sessions.

He said the season snowballed after the spring training injury, but he hasn't seen Dr. James

Andrews since September and doesn't believe surgery is necessary.

"We're confident none of that's going to happen now," Harvey said. "I'm really healthy, haven't

had any pain, nothing. I'm feeling 100 percent."

Likewise, right-hander Parker Bridwell said he had a regular offseason after getting a plasma-

rich platelet injection in his throwing elbow in August. He was added to the 40-man roster in the

offseason and said he'd have a bullpen session Tuesday.

Showalter not surprised by Davis wait

Showalter hasn't spoken to free-agent first baseman Chris Davis recently, but doesn't expect a

quick resolution to the free agency saga that seems to be plugging up the hitters market and his

own offseason.

Showalter said Monday at minicamp that he's "not surprised" Davis' free agency has dragged on

deeper into the offseason, and said it might even bleed into spring training.

"That's not surprising at all the way that camp [agent Scott Boras] does business," Showalter

said. "It wouldn't surprise me if it went to February. It wouldn't surprise me if it goes to March."

Davis, considered the premier free agent left on the market, had a seven-year, $150 million offer

from the Orioles during baseball's winter meetings. It's unclear what his market looks like

otherwise.

Garcia back after "exhausting" 2015

After early season struggles and a shoulder injury slowed right-hander Jason Garcia in 2015, the

former Rule 5 pick said in retrospect that last season was harder on him than he thought.

"It was just so much, and being able to step away from baseball this past couple weeks and

months and kind of analyze everything, the year I had, it was an exhausting year mentally,"

Garcia said. "It was tough. I went through a lot and didn't realize it, but I took out so much. I'm

feeling good."

Garcia finished the season strong after rehabbing in Double-A Bowie, and said he learned there

that he didn't have to overexert to prove himself in the major leagues having never pitched above

Single-A .

"I put a lot on myself just being from A-ball and the Rule 5 draft and trying to impress

everybody and show I can compete at the higher level," he said. "It's definitely something you

question a little at first. Am I going to be able to keep up with these guys? You try not to think

about it that much, but I think I was the youngest guy to start the season. My mindset's changed a

lot this year. I'm just trusting my stuff."

MSJ's Floyd an option

The minicamp has in years past brought a veteran tryout or two, and this year, Showalter asked

area scout Dean Albany to invite right-hander Gavin Floyd (Mount St. Joseph) to throw for them

at minicamp.

The former first-round pick has frequently been connected to the Orioles, and it's unclear

whether he will take them up on that offer. Floyd has dealt with serious elbow injuries of late,

and pitched in just seven games for the Cleveland Indians in 2015.

Around the horn

Showalter said there are 63 players "and counting" who will be invited to major league spring

training, and he extended an invitation to major league camp to minor league catcher Jonah

Heim on Monday. … The early minicamp for minor league players, which will feature players

who can supplement the roster early in spring training, will begin Feb. 24. Minor league pitchers

report March 5, and position players report March 9.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-buck-showalter-wouldnt-be-surprised-if-

chris-davis-decision-isnt-until-march-20160111-story.html

Buck Showalter 'wouldn't be surprised' if Chris Davis

decision isn't until March

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

January 11, 2016

Orioles manager Buck Showalter hasn’t spoken to free agent first baseman Chris Davis recently

— such discussions are now between team executives and his agent, Scott Boras — but he

doesn’t expect a quick resolution to the free agency saga that seems to be plugging up the hitters

market and his own offseason.

He said Monday at minicamp that he’s “not surprised” that Davis’ free agency has dragged on

deeper into the offseason, and said it might even bleed into spring training.

“That’s not surprising at all the way that camp does business,” Showalter said. “It wouldn’t

surprise me if it went to February. It wouldn’t surprise me if it goes to March.”

Davis, considered the premier free agent left on the market, had a seven-year, $150 million offer

from the Orioles during baseball’s Winter Meetings that he didn’t take at the time.

The Orioles aren’t afraid of leaving some of their offseason business for late in the season, but

Davis is a major piece to the offseason for both the Orioles and the rest of the hitting market.

Given Showalter’s opinion, however, the Orioles might be back in Sarasota with more than just a

handful of pitchers before they find out whether Davis will be a part of the team.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/schmuck-blog/bal-orioles-now-playing-dangerous-game-as-

offseason-enters-final-weeks-20160111-story.html

For Orioles, this offseason is turning into a game of Chris

Davis roulette

By Peter Schmuck / The Baltimore Sun

January 11, 2016

The Orioles remain in free agent limbo, apparently waiting for Chris Davis to come to his senses

and accept their seven-year contract offer. But every day that passes without resolution on that

front, the club gets closer to the point where it will make more sense -- to Dan Duquette -- to

wait around and see if he can catch a falling star.

Duquette did that with Nelson Cruz and it made him the Major League Executive of the Year

after the 2014 season. Don't think for a minute he's not hoping that baseball runs out of teams

with big money before it runs out of viable free agent players.

Maybe that's the plan already and maybe it's not. If it is, it's a dangerous game that could leave

the Orioles worse off than last year if Davis eventually finds a better contract and the rest of the

quality players end up elsewhere.

The same questions remain unanswered:

Does Davis have any other serious suitors? Well, you have to wonder with agent Scott Boras

trying to convince all the big-market teams without an opening at first base that Davis is really a

right-fielder in disguise.

Is Boras holding the Orioles hostage or are the Orioles using Boras as cover? Conspiracy

theorists have to wonder if the O's already know they won't be able to re-sign Davis and are

taking advantage of the slow market to buy time until the February free agent fire sale.

Is the Orioles offer really still on the table? It appears to be, even though they technically pulled

it back when Davis didn't initially accept it. But maybe it isn't and the club is giving the

appearance that the door remains open to keep from further damaging Davis' market value.

Whether they sign Davis or not, is there enough money in the budget to fix the starting rotation?

Depends on what you mean by "fix." Duquette will come up with a veteran starter over the next

month or so, but the guy likely will be a medium-priced gamble with some upside.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-dylan-bundy-hunter-harvey-report-to-

orioles-minicamp-healthy-20160111-story.html

Dylan Bundy, Hunter Harvey report to Orioles minicamp

healthy

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

January 11, 2016

A pair of promising young pitchers whose recent arm troubles have dimmed their prospect

shine, Dylan Bundy and Hunter Harvey, reported at the outset of Orioles minicamp Monday

morning that they had clean bills of health.

Multiple injuries kept both from making an impact last season, but manager Buck Showalter said

it was good to see them back with the team and feeling healthy.

"Dylan’s not going to throw off the mound, he ‘s just playing long toss," Showalter said. "That’s

where he is in the program. He’s going very maturely and smart where he may not have been as

much in the past. I’m impressed with how he’s handling where the finish line is. Reminds me of

some of the challenges with Harvey. Hunter’s wanting to be right [there]. Hunter’s already

thrown four times off the mound, his father told us."

The 2011 first-round pick, Bundy threw just 22 innings over eight starts before a calcium buildup

in his shoulder caused tightness that kept him off the mound for the rest of the season.

He returned briefly for the Arizona Fall League, but was scratched before his third start

with forearm tightness.

Bundy said that “wasn’t a big deal” and his long-toss program at home in Oklahoma was already

well underway.

Because he has thrown just 63 1/3 innings over the past three seasons after Tommy John surgery,

he knows his limitations will keep him to the Orioles bullpen if he makes the team. He has no

minor league options remaining, so they must keep him on the 25-man roster all season.

“I expected if I make that team, that’s where I’ll be is the bullpen because of my innings lately,”

Bundy said. “The past couple years I haven’t thrown many innings, so I can’t really be a 200-

innings starter. So yeah, being in the bullpen anywhere in the big leagues, I’ll take any position

and I’ll be fine.”

Harvey, the 2013 first-round pick, hasn’t thrown in a game since July 2014. That season ended

with a flexor mass strain in his throwing arm — a typical precursor to serious elbow injuries —

but he had a clean bill of health when he returned for spring training last year.

But a comebacker fractured his leg, and he said he came back too quickly from that and

developed elbow issues that cost him the entire season.

Harvey said he feels “pretty good so far,” having thrown for a month and a half at home,

including three live bullpen sessions.

He said the season snowballed after the spring training injury, but he hasn’t seen Dr. James

Andrews since September and doesn’t believe surgery is necessary.

“We’re confident none of that’s going to happen now,” Harvey said. “I’m really healthy, haven’t

had any pain, nothing. I’m feeling 100 percent."

Likewise, right-hander Parker Bridwell said he had a regular offseason after getting a plasma-

rich platelet injection in his throwing elbow in August. He was added to the 40-man roster in the

offseason and said he’d have a bullpen session Tuesday.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-orioles-interested-in-bringing-gavin-floyd-

to-minicamp-for-tryout-20160111-story.html

Orioles interested in bringing Gavin Floyd to minicamp for

tryout

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

January 11, 2016

In years past, the Orioles’ January minicamp has been the site of several veteran tryouts as the

team seeks to round out its roster.

There weren’t any unfamiliar faces among the handful of major leaguers and large crop of minor

league pitchers in Sarasota on Monday, but manager Buck Showalter said there might have been

one if he’d had his way.

Showalter had asked scout Dean Albany, who covers Maryland, to invite Mount St. Joseph

graduate Gavin Floyd to come throw for them this week. Showalter wasn’t clear whether that

would happen or not.

The Severna Park native has frequently been mooted to join his hometown team, but his career

hasn’t brought him back to Baltimore yet. The fourth overall pick in the 2001 MLB Draft to the

Philadelphia Phillies made his major league debut in 2004, and was traded to the Chicago White

Sox in 2006.

But he hasn’t been a contributor in the majors since he had Tommy John reconstructive elbow

surgery in 2013. He signed with the Atlanta Braves over the Orioles in 2014 and threw for barely

a month before losing another season to an elbow injury.

He pitched in relief for the Cleveland Indians in 2015.

Past minicamp tryouts have had varying amounts of success. Designated hitter Delmon Young

joined the team after impressing at the minicamp in 2014, while last year, veteran lefthander

Mark Hendrickson tried to catch on with the team.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/blog/bal-jason-garcia-enters-minicamp-with-plenty-

to-prove-after-exhausting-2015-20160111-story.html

Jason Garcia enters minicamp with plenty to prove after

'exhausting' 2015

By Jon Meoli / The Baltimore Sun

January 11, 2016

Jason Garcia, then a freshly-minted Rule 5 draft pick, arrived at the Orioles’ pitching minicamp a

season ago among peers in age, but not in expectation.

Several of the participants were there to spur along their developments as they entered the high

minors, but Garcia, then 22, had to spend the entire season in the major leagues.

He hadn’t thrown a pitch above Class-A at that point, but possessing a fastball that climbed to

the high-90s, Garcia was asked to make a near-unprecedented jump. It proved more difficult than

he thought it would be.

That adjustment, plus an early-season shoulder issue that cost him over two months, contributed

to a difficult season for Garcia. He arrived this year much more comfortable, and now that he

feels like he belongs, believes he can start to show it.

“It was just so much, and being able to step away from baseball this past couple weeks and

months and kind of analyze everything, the year I had, it was an exhausting year mentally,”

Garcia said. “It was tough. I went through a lot and didn’t realize it, but I took out so much. I’m

feeling good. Mentally, I’m feeling good about this season.”

Garcia’s first season started with a scoreless outing in Tampa Bay during the opening series, but

he allowed runs in five of his next seven appearances before going on the disabled list with

shoulder tendinitis.

Even without the injury, Garcia said he wasn’t himself during those outings.

“I put a lot on myself just being from A-ball and the Rule 5 draft and trying to impress

everybody and show I can compete at the higher level,” he said.

The eventual rehab stint in Double-A Bowie, and working with Baysox pitching coach Alan

Mills, brought him back to himself.

“I think once I came back from the rehab stint last year, just working with Millsy on that mindset

of trusting yourself, I didn’t second-thought any pitch or any decision I made,” he said. “I kind of

felt that started to work for me and I had success.”

Once he returned, Garcia didn’t allow an earned run in 10 of 13 appearances, striking out nearly

a batter per inning and walking six in 16 innings. It was the type of success, however limited in

scope, he needed after the trying year.

During the offseason, he went back to his rehab from Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery

to do some of the shoulder strengthening exercises that helped him then. That will help him

avoid the shoulder setbacks as he seeks a spot in the bullpen in 2016, but it was only going

through last season that will free him to do so mentally.

“The level of competition, obviously, is night and day,” Garcia said. “I go from watching these

guys to now competing against them, not just in spring but in the regular season. It’s definitely

something you question a little at first. Am I going to be able to keep up with these guys? You

try not to think about it that much, but I think I was the youngest guy to start the season. My

mindsets changed a lot this year. I’m just trusting my stuff."

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/161615084/chris-davis-orioles-in-holding-pattern

Orioles in waiting mode regarding Davis

By Brittany Ghiroli / MLB.com

January 11, 2016

BALTIMORE -- When Scott Boras was in San Francisco on Friday to help introduce free-agent

acquisition Denard Span, he joked that perhaps he'd stick around to talk to the Giants about

another high-profile client of his: Chris Davis.

In truth, Boras didn't stay long before he headed for the airport, taking the realm of mystery

surrounding Davis' future with him. It's highly unlikely the Giants would entertain talks with

Davis, and the list of potential suitors for the 29-year-old slugger -- outside of returning to

Baltimore -- remains quiet. And it could remain that way for a while.

This much is known: the Orioles are still badly in need of a left-handed power bat, and Davis fits

the bill. They made a very competitive offer -- particularly for a mid-market team -- in offering

Davis a seven-year deal in the $154 million range. False reports leaked that the O's had upped

their offer during the Winter Meetings in Nashville, Tenn., perhaps an attempt by Boras to help

drive his client's market, but there hasn't been much buzz since.

The Tigers were listed as a sleeper team for Davis' services by the Boston Globe over the

weekend. While Detroit has worked well with Boras in the past, it doesn't need any help at first

base. Perhaps if money were no object, Detroit would take Davis for his power and figure out a

position for him later.

But if the Orioles' $154 million isn't enough, it's hard to envision Detroit paying a higher price

tag to commit to solely a high-strikeout, high-homer bat. While Boras is indeed pushing his

client as a corner-outfield option, Davis has only made 68 career starts in the outfield and can't

be thought of as a long-term everyday option there.

Even if Boras did get a team to bite on Davis as an outfielder, there's some talk of that market

coming down some in the wake of Alex Gordon's deal (four years, $72 million) with Kansas

City.

The Rangers -- Davis' former club and his hometown team -- supposedly aren't going to spend

that kind of money. And most other teams are either set at first base or don't have the kind of

finances to compete with Baltimore's offer.

Some in the Orioles' organization are OK moving forward without Davis and turning attention

toward other options, though there hasn't been much movement on that front. Owner Peter

Angelos is a big Davis fan and wants him back, though there's nothing to indicate he's interested

in upping the offer. The ball is in Boras' court, except now time is starting to be a factor.

"That's not surprising at all, the way that camp does business," Orioles manager Buck Showalter,

who has not talked to Davis recently, said of the timeline. "It wouldn't surprise me if it went to

February. It wouldn't surprise me if it goes to March."

Even Davis' former teammates aren't sure where this game is headed: Does Davis want to return?

Will Boras change his terms? Could the Orioles take their offer off the table and invest their

money elsewhere? It's unknown if Davis would be willing to come back on a one-year deal and

retest the market next offseason.

Without Davis, the O's would have a big hole in their lineup. But if they commit the reported

$200 million that Davis' camp is seeking, it would have significant implications for the Orioles'

payroll.

Davis, who will be 30 in March, was named the Most Valuable Oriole the past two seasons and

has become a fan favorite in Baltimore. He led the league in both home runs and strikeouts last

year.

Baltimore, which could still use a corner outfielder, has been linked to free agents Justin

Upton and Yoenis Cespedes this winter, and the Orioles could use Davis' funds there and/or on a

rotation upgrade.

http://m.orioles.mlb.com/news/article/161641238/dylan-bundy-hunter-harvey-healthy-at-os-

camp

Bundy, Harvey healthy at O's minicamp Top prospects have dealt with nagging injuries over past two seasons

By Adam Berry / MLB.com

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla. -- Right-handers Hunter Harvey and Dylan Bundy, the Orioles' top two

prospects, reported to the club's annual minicamp on Monday with clean bills of health, a

welcome development after a few injury-plagued seasons.

Bundy, 23, was limited by an ailing right shoulder to only eight starts for Double-A Bowie last

season. He made two starts in the Arizona Fall League before being scratched with forearm

tightness. The O's No. 2 prospect said they were "just being cautious" with his forearm in the

Fall League, however.

Bundy is working through a throwing program at home in Oklahoma, playing catch at 150 feet.

He expects to throw a bullpen session soon, but manager Buck Showalter said that won't take

place this week as Bundy carefully increases his intensity.

"He's going very maturely and smart, where he may not have been as much in the past,"

Showalter said. "I'm impressed with how he's handling where the finish line is."

This year, that finish line could be set up in the Orioles' bullpen. Bundy is out of Minor League

options, meaning the O's must place him on their Opening Day roster (if he's healthy) or risk

losing him to another club. Considering Bundy's recent innings totals -- he threw 41 1/3 in 2014

and last surpassed 100 in '12 -- he won't be able maintain a starter's workload.

That means Bundy is likely bound for the bullpen, a reality he has seemingly accepted. His long-

term plan is still to be a starter in the Majors, but his immediate goal is to crack Baltimore's

roster.

"The past couple years, I haven't thrown many innings, so I can't really be a 200-innings starter,"

Bundy said. "So yeah, being in the bullpen, anywhere in the big leagues, I'll take any position

and I'll be fine."

Harvey, the Orioles' top prospect, hasn't pitched in a game since July 25, 2014. A flexor mass

strain in his right arm cut that season short, but he was fully healthy last spring. However,

Harvey sustained a right leg fracture on a comebacker and eventually ran into more elbow issues

during his recovery.

The 21-year-old right-hander said he attempted to come back too quickly from the leg injury. But

Harvey feels healthy now, and he said he hasn't experienced any problems since he began

throwing more than a month ago.

"I guess it happens," Harvey said. "It was a tough year."

There were some questions late last year regarding whether Harvey would need to undergo

elbow surgery. Even he worried at one point. But Harvey hasn't had to see Dr. James Andrews

since September, he said, and he believes that surgery won't be necessary.

"We're confident. I've been feeling really healthy, haven't had any pain, nothing," Harvey said.

"I'm 100 percent."

Minicamp notes

• The Orioles are discussing the possibility of inviting right-hander Gavin Floyd to minicamp for

a tryout. Floyd, a Maryland native, made seven relief appearances for the Indians last season.

Over the past three years, injuries have limited Floyd to 21 appearances, including 14 starts,

though he has pitched well in that time, posting a 3.33 ERA.

In the past, the O's have used this camp to host tryouts and extend Spring Training

invitations. Delmon Young caught on with the club in 2014 after making an impression in

minicamp, and veteran left-hander Mark Hendrickson tried out last year.

• Showalter informed catcher Jonah Heim, the Orioles' No. 15 prospect, that he will be invited to

big league Spring Training.

• Right-hander Joe Gunkel and lefties C.J. Riefenhauser and Jeff Beliveau were the only three

pitchers to throw off a mound on Monday. Along with Bundy, right-hander Jason Garcia and

lefty Tanner Scott (coming off a stint in the Fall League) aren't expected to pitch off the mound

this week.

• Chris Tillman, Miguel Gonzalez and closer Zach Britton were among the Major League

pitchers in attendance on Monday. Outfielder Henry Urrutia, who lives in the area, also reported

to the Ed Smith Stadium complex.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2016/01/looking-back-on-the-first-day-of-

minicamp.html

Looking back on the first day of minicamp

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla. - Did we learn anything of importance yesterday on the first day of

minicamp?

Well, Hunter Harvey and Dylan Bundy insist that they're 100 percent physically. Harvey said

he's thrown three bullpen sessions, which might make a few people nervous in the organization.

They don't want him pushing it and risking a more serious injury to his elbow.

Bundy continues to long-toss from 150 feet. A mound session isn't far off, but the Orioles like

how he's learned to take his foot off the accelerator. It's all part of the maturation process.

Good news on both fronts. Harvey and Bundy are big parts of the club's future, both first-round

picks who need to be developed while prices skyrocket on free agent pitchers.

It's possible that the Orioles will bring in Gavin Floyd for a tryout that could lead to a spring

training invitation. They really don't have much to lose. Take a look at him and see whether he

could be signed to a minor league deal.

The Orioles have long held interest in Floyd, dating to the 2001 draft. The Phillies selected Floyd

with the fourth overall pick. The Orioles took left-hander Chris Smith at No. 7.

My apologies for the reminder.

Manager Buck Showalter wasn't offering a prediction when he stated that he wouldn't be

surprised if Chris Davis remained on the free agent market in February or March. He simply was

responding to a question. Was he surprised that no one had signed Davis?

Too much was read into it.

Upon further review, the Orioles currently have 55 players on their spring training roster. The

math has been adjusted.

Showalter prefers to keep the number at 59, making sure there are enough lockers in the main

clubhouse at Ed Smith Stadium, but adjustments can be made.

Reporters must wait until spring training to get their first look at Korean outfielder Hyun Soo

Kim.

"We've had people see him play 20, 30 games over there," Showalter said. "We've got a pretty

good idea of what he's done over there. That will be interesting."

Jason Garcia is at minicamp and he's expected to continue workouts in California with vice

president of baseball operations Brady Anderson. Garcia has shed his Rule 5 status and most

likely will begin the 2016 season at Double-A Bowie.

The Orioles want to develop Garcia into a multi-inning reliever, but he may become a starter

again down the road. To be determined.

"We've talked here and there, but nothing definite yet," Garcia said yesterday. "Kind of see how

this spring goes and see whatever works best for the team."

Garcia will report to spring training next month with the same goal of making the club, no matter

how high the odds are stacked against him.

"Yeah, definitely," he said. "My mindset about that hasn't changed. The goal is still going to be

to hopefully break with the team out of spring training."

Garcia went 1-0 with a 4.25 ERA and 1.416 WHIP in 21 games last season, his first above the

low Single-A level. He regained some velocity and was more effective after coming off the

disabled list in August following a three-month absence.

"It was a lot different," Garcia said. "I think my mindset and just my confidence was different.

Working with Millsy (Alan Mills) in Bowie I think was pretty crucial for me, and just getting

everything right. I felt a lot more confident coming back from that rehab stint this past year."

The confidence showed yesterday with Garcia no longer the nervous Rule 5 pick.

"It feels a lot different," he said. "Just the experience and everything from what I learned and

went through, this offseason I got to sit down and think about and take it in. It was awesome and

I'm pumped, excited."

Asked to name one important lesson, Garcia fumbled for an answer.

"There's a ton. It's hard to choose from. That's a hard question. I probably can't choose one

thing," he said.

"On the field, probably just how different the game is, the pace of the game. Just realizing it's the

same game, but trusting in myself. Just competing."

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2016/01/more-orioles-notes-and-quotes-from-

todays-minicamp.html

More Orioles notes and quotes from today's minicamp

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla. - Orioles manager Buck Showalter spoke briefly today with the players

attending minicamp before turning it over to pitching coach Dave Wallace and bullpen coach

Dom Chiti.

"I talked to them for about five minutes before Wally and Dom did their thing, congratulated

them on being invited and appreciate them coming," Showalter said this afternoon while sitting

in his office at the Ed Smith Stadium complex.

"They didn't have to come. This is completely voluntary, but the reputation of the camp has

gotten around and people like coming. It's very low-key, but it immeasurably helps us get on

with business when we start in February as opposed to wasting three or four days or a week

trying to figure out where we are.

"We had like three guys that were here last year that weren't really on the map that pitched in the

big league last year. There will be some of those guys here that you'll get to know after this camp

that'll show up in the big leagues next year."

Showalter still doesn't know whether first baseman Chris Davis will show up in spring training.

He's still on the market and the Orioles still are holding firm to their seven-year, $150 million

offer.

Showalter indicated that he hasn't talked to Davis.

"I'm not allowed to," he said, adding that he isn't surprised Davis remains unsigned.

"That's not surprising at all the way that camp does business. It wouldn't surprise me if it went to

February. It wouldn't surprise me if it goes to March."

Jeff Beliveau has recovered from labrum surgery and threw today off a mound.

"It's good to see Beliveau. We'll call him Beli," Showalter said. "It's about where he is in his

program to throw. It was real light.

"We're kind of checking on (catcher) Chris O'Brien's shoulder. I'm waiting to see what Richie

(Bancells) has to say about that."

Dylan Bundy and Jason Garcia won't throw off a mound while they're here. Bundy will continue

to do some long-tossing before progressing to a mound, perhaps as early as next week.

"It's where he is in the program," Showalter said. "He's going very maturely and smart, where he

may not have been as much in the past. I'm impressed with how he's handling where the finish

line is.

"It's kind of like some of the challenges with (Hunter) Harvey because Hunter's already thrown

four times off the mound, his father told us."

A decision is pending on left-hander Tanner Scott, who pitched in the Arizona Fall League.

"I don't know if he'll throw. I haven't gotten that far," Showalter said.

"I know most of the guys that threw a lot during the season, they're not. It's more about

familiarizing themselves if they have a chance to impact us this year."

Players aren't going to make the 25-man roster based on their appearance at minicamp.

"They know," Showalter said. "This is Wally's thing. We've done it for a while. It's a great

exercise that our ownership allows us to do that a lot of folks don't. When's the last time we got

surprised by something in February or March? We get ahead of things. We're able to check on

Bundy. I'm looking forward to sitting down with Richie and everybody to see where we're at

with everybody."

Assistant hitting coach Mark Quinn is in camp getting acclimated with his new surroundings. He

was hired last week despite not coaching in an organization. The former Royals outfielder has

been running a highly regarded baseball academy in Houston.

"I think he's at an advantage that a lot of guys don't have," Showalter said. "This guy's been

teaching hitting since forever in all age groups. He's coached big league guys, minor league

guys, high school guys, even Little League guys. He knows the difference between all of them.

"This guy was Sporting News Rookie of the Year. He's been on all sides of the mound. There's

not much a guy can bring up that he hasn't experienced. He's going to be a nice resource for Scott

(Coolbaugh). We're very lucky to have both of them. I'm going to be surprised that he doesn't

become a real asset for us. And he brings up that real freshness, doing it for the first time.

"I think it's an advantage, his resume, the more you look at it. The guy has done nothing but

teach all different type of people and hitters. I kind of like the fact that it hasn't been just strictly

professional. He'll have a pretty good door opener with the players, not many people have been

able to have done what he's done."

Showalter informed Single-A catcher Jonah Heim that he will be invited to spring training. Heim

was shut down for three months with a foot injury.

"That was fun telling Heim," Showalter said.

Showalter said outfielder Henry Urrutia will get plenty of at-bats in spring training.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2016/01/orioles-again-expressing-interest-in-gavin-

floyd-plus-other-notes.html

Orioles again expressing interest in Gavin Floyd (plus other

notes)

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla. - Manager Buck Showalter said the Orioles are discussing whether to invite

pitcher Gavin Floyd to minicamp and give him a tryout.

Injuries have limited Floyd, a Severna Park native, to five starts with the White Sox in 2013, nine

starts with the Braves in 2014 and seven relief appearances with the Indians last season. He's

currently a free agent.

Floyd, who turns 33 later this month, was teammates with Mark Teixeira at Mount St. Joseph

High School.

Floyd's appearances with the Indians came in September after he underwent surgery in March to

repair a fracture of the olecranon bone in his right elbow - the same procedure he had with the

Braves. He allowed four runs and 11 hits in 13 1/3 innings, with four walks and seven strikeouts.

The Orioles have been linked to Floyd multiple times at the Winter Meetings and they made him

a two-year offer prior to the 2014 season.

Former Rays pitcher Jeff Beliveau also threw off a mound today at minicamp, joining Joe

Gunkel and left-hander C.J. Riefenhauser.

Showalter said Dylan Bundy and Jason Garcia won't throw off a mound this week. The same

probably is true of Tanner Scott, who is being brought along slowly after pitching in the Arizona

Fall League.

The Orioles currently have 63 players on their spring training roster, more than the usual amount.

Catcher Jonah Heim will receive an invitation.

The spring training roster includes seven non-roster pitchers and three non-roster catchers.

The minor league contracts signed by infielders Steve Tolleson and Paul Janish include opt-out

clauses.

Mike Wright, Trey Mancini and Mike Yastrzemski are working out in California with vice

president of baseball operations Brady Anderson.

Pitchers and catchers report to minor league spring training on March 5, with position players

due to arrive on March 9.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2016/01/bridwell-healthy-and-eager-for-spring-

training.html

Bridwell healthy and eager for spring training

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla. - Not only did right-hander Parker Bridwell refuse to stress over the

possibility of being added to the Orioles' 40-man roster, he had no idea when teams were

required to protect players from the Rule 5 draft. The deadline could have been hours or months

away for all he knew.

The Orioles shocked Bridwell on Nov. 20 by including him on the roster, along with pitchers

Andrew Triggs and Chris Lee.

"I was very surprised," said Bridwell, 24, who's in Sarasota to attend minicamp. "Honestly, I

didn't even know the deadline was that day. I didn't even pay attention to it, which is good. I

didn't want to kind of sit there and wait for a phone call. You know what I'm saying? So, I was

more surprised than I've probably ever been in my whole life."

Kent Qualls, the Orioles' director of minor league operations, contacted Bridwell with the news.

"He called me when I was on my way to Texas for Christmas from Owasso (Okla.)," said

Bridwell, the Orioles' ninth-round pick in 2010. "I was driving back to where I'm from for

Christmas and he called me. I got the chills."

Bridwell, standing at his locker, glanced down at his left arm.

"I'm getting them again right now," he continued. "I was excited. It was definitely one of the

good days in the offseason."

Bridwell made 18 starts at Double-A Bowie before being shut down with right elbow tendinitis

and receiving a platelet-rich plasma injection from Dr. James Andrews.

"I'm all good. I feel healthy, 100 percent," Bridwell said.

"I just had elbow tightness, I guess, a little elbow pain. I got the PRP injection from Dr. Andrews

and came up here and rehabbed for two or three weeks and then shut it down until mid-

December, late December. Started playing catch and stuff like that. I feel great, so I'm excited.

"I'm pumped. I'm ready to start getting in the routine and stuff like that. I feel like it's been a year

since I pitched and I only missed a month. I'm excited. I feel good."

Bridwell played catch today and may throw off a mound Tuesday or Wednesday.

"Just a touch feel," he said.

Right-hander Joe Gunkel and left-hander C.J. Riefenhauser were the only pitchers to throw in the

bullpen this morning. Plenty more will take the mounds over the next two days.

The Orioles acquired Gunkel from the Red Sox on June 3 for outfielder Alejandro De Aza. He

went 10-5 with a 2.79 ERA in 21 games (20 starts) with the Baysox.

The Orioles sent catcher Steve Clevenger to the Mariners on Dec. 2 for Riefenhauser and first

baseman/outfielder Mark Trumbo.

Chris Tillman played catch with Miguel Gonzalez in the replica Camden Yards outfield. Other

players ran sprints and did some tossing before heading to the weight room. A few position

players hit in the indoor cage.

Manager Buck Showalter will meet with the media later today. And by "media," I'm referring to

three of us who currently are sitting in the workroom.

http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2016/01/updates-on-hunter-harvey-and-dylan-

bundy.html

Updates on Hunter Harvey and Dylan Bundy

By Roch Kubatko / MASNsports.com

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla. - The Orioles are holding their first minicamp meeting after opening the

clubhouse to the media at 9 a.m. Players will take the field later this morning.

Chris Tillman, and Zach Britton are here, sporting full beards. Miguel Gonzalez is at the Ed

Smith Stadium complex and also bearded. Henry Urrutia also reported despite not being included

on the roster.

The health updates are positive on young pitchers Hunter Harvey and Dylan Bundy.

Harvey said he's been throwing for the last 1 1/2 months, including three bullpen sessions. His

elbow is "100 percent" after the Orioles shut him down in the fall instructional league with a

strained flexor mass.

Bundy has been throwing from 150 feet after the Orioles shut him down in the Arizona Fall

League with right forearm tightness. He made only eight starts at Double-A Bowie due to

inflammation caused by a calcium buildup behind his right shoulder.

Harvey, 21, is confident that he's avoided surgery.

"I'm pretty good so far," said Harvey, the 22nd overall pick in the 2013 draft. "Feeling healthy.

Haven't had any problems."

Harvey is due for a good stretch of luck and health. He sustained a fractured fibula in March

after being hit by a ball in Fort Myers. The strain flexor mass followed, which prevented Harvey

from pitching last summer. He had the same ailment in July 2014.

"It was a rough year in spring training, getting hit, then just kind of snowballing after that. It

happens, but it was a tough year," Harvey said.

"We're confident none of that's going to happen now. I'm really healthy, haven't had any pain,

nothing. I'm feeling 100 percent."

Harvey said Dr. James Andrews hasn't examined his elbow since September.

"I think I just came back too fast off the (shin) injury, trying to push it too hard too quick and it

just didn't hold up," Harvey said. "It feels fine now. Hopefully, it'll stay that way.

"When I came back for instructs and it started hurting again, (surgery) was in my mind. I was

kind of worried, but when I went back down there and saw (Andrews), he said everything was

going to be fine with more rest. That was a huge relief. I was just trying to stay out from surgery

and not have to have that. That was really good hearing that."

Harvey, who may throw lightly off the mound Tuesday morning, also found comfort in his

father's past experiences. Former major league closer Bryan Harvey has experienced his own

injuries.

"He had four elbow surgeries," Harvey said. "He had Tommy John once, so having him has been

a help through this process."

Bundy, 23, said he'll probably throw 15 fastballs off the flat mound this week and progress to a

regular mound the following week.

"So far, so good," he said. "I've still got a month until spring training. I'm excited going into it for

sure.

"The forearm wasn't a big deal, even in Arizona. We were just being cautious with it."

Bundy is out of minor league options and could break camp as a reliever. He made two major

league appearances, both out of the bullpen, in 2012 before undergoing ligament-reconstructive

surgery on his right elbow.

"I expect if I make that team, that's where I'll be is the bullpen because of my innings lately,"

Bundy said. "The past couple years, I haven't thrown many innings, so I can't really be a 200

innings starter. So yeah, being in the bullpen anywhere in the big leagues, I'll take any position

and I'll be fine."

Bundy threw 41 1/3 innings in 2014 and 22 last year. He isn't aware of a specific limit this

season.

"I know it's not a starter number of innings," he said. "I'm sure it's anywhere from 40 to 70,

something like that. That's their thing, not mine."

Bundy eventually wants to be a starter again, but he knows it's going to be a process.

"Just kind of depends what happens the next year," he said, "and the next two or three years."

http://www.masnsports.com/steve-melewski/2016/01/a-take-on-the-remaining-free-agent-

pitching-market.html

A take on the remaining free agent pitching market

By Steve Melewski / MASNsports.com

January 12, 2016

In an attempt to improve a starting rotation that ranked 14th in the American League last year in

ERA at 4.53, the Orioles may be running out of solid options for an upgrade.

At this point, free agent right-handers Yovani Gallardo and Ian Kennedy are out there. But both

were projected to potentially get four-year deals in the $50 million range. On top of that, the

Orioles would have to give up the 14th pick in the draft to sign either.

While Gallardo went 13-11 with a 3.42 ERA for Texas last year, he also gave up 9.4 hits per nine

innings with a WHIP of 1.416. Every Oriole that started a game last season except Mike

Wright and Bud Norris had a better WHIP than that. But Gallardo's career WHIP is better at 1.31

and his ERA+ has been 108 or above in four of the last five years, when he has averaged 194

innings.

Kennedy, the Yankees' first-round pick in 2006, went 9-15 with a 4.28 ERA in 168 1/3 innings

last season, allowing 31 homers for San Diego. In the three previous seasons, his ERA was 4.02

or above twice and his ERA+ is under 100 for three consecutive seasons.

In weighing the risk of signing Gallardo or Kennedy to a multi-year deal and losing a draft pick,

the price just seems too high for me. At this point, it might be more prudent to sign a pitcher

looking for a one-year deal or even potentially stay in house with pitchers like Wright, Tyler

Wilson and Brian Matusz as possible fifth starter candidates.

If the Orioles did stay in-house, they would not be able to tell the fans they upgraded the rotation,

replacing Wei-Yei Chen with an unproven in-house candidate. But that still could be a better

play than overpaying for someone that is not necessarily an upgrade and losing a draft pick.

If the Orioles look for a one-year deal with a pitcher, here are a few that could be available:

Doug Fister: From 2011 to 2014, Fister posted an ERA of 3.11, which was 11th in the majors

among qualifying pitchers, ahead of Zack Greinke, David Price and James Shields. He was just

behind Madison Bumgarner at 3.08. His ERA+ of 129 tied for fifth in the major leagues. He also

had a 50.5 percent groundball rate.

Fister averaged just 86 mph on his fastball last year when he pitched to an ERA of 4.60 in 15

starts. He went on the disabled list in May with forearm tightness and later lost his rotation spot

with the Nationals. Fister's average velocity was 88.8 in 2013 and 87.8 in 2014. So while he has

never thrown that hard, he is trending downward, which could be a red flag.

ESPN's Buster Olney reported recently that Fister has one- and two-year contract offers. Despite

his poor 2015, it seems several teams see a strong track record here and feel Fister is a good

candidate for a bounceback season.

Mat Latos: On Dec. 22, ESPN's Jerry Crasnick reported that the Orioles, Pirates, Royals,

Brewers, and Rays had checked in on Latos. He said Latos is probably looking at a one-year deal

to re-establish his value after going 4-10 with a 4.95 ERA for the Marlins, Dodgers and Angels.

Latos has dealt with several injuries in recent years, including a flexor mass strain and bone

spurs in his elbow.

But he ranks 14th in the majors with a 3.27 ERA from 2010-2014, ahead of Greinke, Max

Scherzer and Jon Lester to name three. His career WHIP is 1.18 and career ERA is 3.51.

Mark Buehrle: This is a real longshot. Recent reports indicated that the left-hander is not

planning on playing in 2016 at this time, though he also was not yet ready to announce his

retirement. A door may be ajar.

At 36 in 2015, Buehrle went 15-8 with a 3.81 ERA over 32 starts and 198 2/3 innings for

Toronto. He fell four outs short of recording a 15th straight season of 200 or more innings. His

WHIP though was a solid 1.24 and he averaged just 1.5 walks per nine innings to rank as the best

in the AL.

I would imagine that if Buehrle ended retirement talk and signed with another AL East team,

Blue Jays fans would have a major problem with that. This probably makes him only more

appealing to Orioles fans.

Bronson Arroyo and Cliff Lee have also been mentioned as candidates to a sign a one-year deal.

Lee is returning from a partially torn flexor tendon and reports have said he intends to pitch in

2016. Several teams figure to have interest in this one-time ace. There is always the trade

possibility for starters, but usually the other team wants pitching back in return.

The Orioles were not willing to play in the high-end pitching market and either not willing or

able to get pitchers like Jordan Zimmermann, Jeff Samardzija or Mike Leake. Perhaps they still

have a shot at Chen, although it appears that ship has sailed.

I'll remind everyone here - myself included - that time remains to improve the rotation. But with

spring training starting next month, the options are less appealing now.

http://www.csnmidatlantic.com/blog/orioles-talk/buck-showalter-pleased-minicamps-popularity

Buck Showalter pleased by minicamp's popularity

By Rich Dubroff / CSN Mid-Atlantic

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla. – Buck Showalter is pleased that the Orioles three-day minicamp has been

worthwhile.

“This is completely voluntary…but the reputation of the camp has gotten around and people like

coming. It’s very low-key but it immeasurably helps us get on with business when we start in

February as opposed to wasting three or four days or a week trying to figure out where we are,”

Showalter said.

Showalter will fly to Baltimore on Tuesday night to appear at an event sponsored by B.J. Surhoff

at Towson University’s SECU Arena highlighting autism awareness. Pitching coach Dave

Wallace and bullpen coach Dom Chiti will run the camp on Wednesday.

“We had like three guys that were here last year that weren’t really on the map that pitched in the

big leagues last year. There will be some of those guys here that you’ll get to know after this

camp that’ll show up in the big leagues next year,” Showalter said.

Mychal Givens, who is back this year, attended last year's minicamp.

NOTES: Showalter said that he’s excited about the addition of Mark Quinn as assistant hitting

coach. Quinn was at minicamp to tour the Orioles facility.

He said that Quinn’s lack of experience as a hitting coach in organized ball shouldn’t be a

disadvantage.

“I think it’s an advantage—his resume—the more you look at it. The guy has done nothing but

teach all different type of people and hitters. I kind of like the fact that it hasn’t been just strictly

professional. He’ll have a pretty good door opener with the players, not many people have been

able to have done what he’s done,” Showalter said.

-Showalter said that he’s looking forward to seeing South Korean outfielder Hyun Soo Kim in

action.

“We’ve had people see him play 20,30 games over there. We’ve got a pretty good idea of what

he’s done over there. That will be interesting,” Showalter said.

http://www.csnmidatlantic.com/blog/orioles-talk/orioles-considering-local-product-gavin-floyd

Orioles considering local product Gavin Floyd

By Rich Dubroff / CSN Mid-Atlantic

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla.—Every year, it seems the Orioles discuss signing local product Gavin Floyd.

This year is no different. According to manager Buck Showalter, the Orioles have considered

trying Floyd out at this week’s minicamp and if that’s successful, inviting him to spring training.

Floyd, who grew up in Severna Park, Md., is currently a free agent. He underwent elbow surgery

to repair a fracture last March.

After rehab, Floyd pitched in seven September games for the Cleveland Indians with a 2.70

ERA.

In 12 big league seasons with the Phillies, White Sox, Braves and Indians, Floyd is 72-72 with a

4.38 ERA.

NOTES: Showalter said that there may be more than 20 invitations to non-roster players.

Currently, the roster stands at 63. … Jeff Beliveau, recently signed to a minor league contract,

minor league pitcher Joe Gunkel and left-hander C.J. Riefenhauser, acquired from Seattle in the

Mark Trumbo trade, were the only pitchers to throw today. … Minor league catcher Jonah Heim

has been given an invitation to major league camp. … Showalter said that he hasn’t spoken with

Chris Davis and wouldn’t be surprised if he remained unsigned for several more weeks. … The

Orioles would have liked pitcher Vance Worley and catcher Francisco Pena to come, but both

declined invitations.

http://www.csnmidatlantic.com/blog/orioles-talk/dyland-bundy-will-have-start-bullpen-if-hes-

healthy

Dylan Bundy will have to start in bullpen if he's healthy

By Rich Dubroff / CSN Mid-Atlantic

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla. – Dylan Bundy has done a lot more talking than throwing over the past few

years. He’s looking to change that.

Bundy, who hasn’t pitched in the majors leagues since two appearances out of the bullpen in

September 2012, has thrown just 63 1/3 innings following his Tommy John surgery in June

2013.

He’s been throwing at home in Oklahoma.

“I’m up to about 150 feet. I’ll throw a bullpen in the next week probably. Flat mound maybe this

week. So far so good. I’ve still got a month until spring training. I’m excited going into it for

sure,” Bundy said.

“I might get on a flat mound Wednesday, just flat ground basically, 15 fastballs real easy. Then

next week I’ll probably get on a mound.”

Bundy didn’t pitch after May last year with a forearm injury, and in the Arizona Fall League

suffered some forearm tightness which shut him down.

“The forearm wasn’t a big deal, even in Arizona. We were just being cautious with it.”

Because Bundy hasn’t thrown many innings recently, he’ll have to pitch out of the bullpen if he

makes the Orioles. If he’s healthy, he’ll be with the team because he doesn’t have any options

remaining.

“The past couple years I haven’t thrown many innings, so I can’t really be a 200 innings starter.

So yeah, being in the bullpen anywhere in the big leagues, I’ll take any position and I’ll be fine,”

Bundy said.

He’s not sure what his innings limit will be.

“I know it’s not a starter number of innings. I’m sure it’s anywhere from 40 to 70, something like

that. That’s their thing, not mine,” Bundy said.

Even though he’ll have to be in the bullpen, Bundy remains determined to be a starter. That’s

what the Orioles hoped for when they drafted him with the fourth overall pick in 2011.

“Yeah, that’s my goal. Just kind of depends what happens the next year and the next two or three

years,” Bundy said.

http://www.csnmidatlantic.com/blog/orioles-talk/harvey-says-hes-ready-pitch-2016

Harvey says he's ready to pitch in 2016

By Rich Dubroff / CSN Mid-Atlantic

January 11, 2016

SARASOTA, Fla. – The Orioles can’t wait to see how Hunter Harvey looks at this week’s

minicamp. Harvey, who hasn’t pitched in a game since July 2014 because of a variety of injuries,

is eager to get back to pitching competitively.

Harvey was in spring training with the Orioles in 2015, and if he checks out well here, he’ll

report Feb. 18 with everyone else.

He’s been throwing for the last month-and-a-half at his North Carolina home, and he’s feeling

strong. He expects to throw off the mound lightly on Tuesday.

Harvey, the Orioles first round draft pick in 2013, broke his shin in March 2015 during a minor

league spring training game, and then soreness in his right elbow kept him out of the rest of the

season.

“It was a rough year in spring training, getting hit, then just kind of snowballing after that. It

happens, but it was a tough year,” Harvey said.

There was talk that Harvey might need elbow surgery, but that’s gone away for now.

“We’re confident none of that’s going to happen now. I’m really healthy, haven’t had any pain,

nothing. I’m feeling 100 percent,” Harvey said.

“I think I just came back too fast off the ankle injury, trying to push it too hard too quick and it

just didn’t hold up. It feels fine now. Hopefully it’ll stay that way.”

He last saw team orthopedist Dr. James Andrews in September. Harvey felt tightness in

Instructional League. There was concern then that surgery was in the offing.

“When I came back for instructs and it started hurting again, it was in my mind. I was kind of

worried but when I went back down there and seen him, he said everything was going to be fine

with more rest. That was a huge relief. I was just trying to stay out from surgery and not have to

have that. That was really good hearing that,” Harvey said.

Harvey’s been working under the supervision of his father, former All-Star reliever Bryan

Harvey.

“He had four elbow surgeries. He had Tommy John once, so having him has been a help through

this process,” Harvey said.

http://www.pressboxonline.com/2016/01/11/dylan-bundy-could-be-wild-card-for-2016-orioles

Dylan Bundy Could Be Wild Card For 2016 Orioles

By Paul Folkemer / PressBoxOnline.com

January 11, 2016

The Orioles will kick off their January minicamp in Sarasota, Fla., Jan. 11, giving the coaching

staff an up-close look at several minor league pitching prospects.

Perhaps no pitcher will command more attention, though, than a five-year veteran of the Orioles'

organization, right-hander Dylan Bundy.

Bundy's tumultuous, star-crossed O's career has been well documented. He was ticketed as a

future ace from the time the O's selected him fourth overall during the 2011 draft. Bundy made

his big league debut at age 19 in 2012, and he was named Baseball America's top pitching

prospect prior to the 2013 season.

Since then, Bundy, 23, has suffered a slew of injuries that have threatened to torpedo his career,

beginning with 2013 Tommy John surgery and extending to a calcium buildup in his right

shoulder in 2015. Bundy's protracted stints on the shelf have limited him to 17 minor league

appearances during the past three seasons.

Just when Bundy returned to action and was ready to build up innings in the Arizona Fall

League, he reported forearm stiffness after two innings of work, forcing the Birds to shut him

down again.

Now, nearly two months after his abbreviated AFL stint, Bundy is anxious to get back onto a

mound in Sarasota.

"I feel great," Bundy said during Orioles FanFest Dec. 12. "I'm just excited. I'm healthy right

now, and I need to go into spring training healthy and compete for a spot and help the team win."

Bundy insisted that the AFL injury wasn't something to be worried about in the long term.

"I don't think it was anything," Bundy said. "It was just a precautionary thing where they shut me

down. ... When you're first starting to throw again, you're going to be sore in places. You've just

got to get used to it. I was just kind of cautious about it, and I told the trainers, and they took care

of it."

Bundy lamented the missed opportunity to continue his development in the AFL.

"I felt great for that one inning in the first start in the AFL," Bundy said. "And then after the

second outing I felt it, and I was just like, 'Come on, give me a break.' All I want to do is pitch,

and you can't really work on a whole lot of stuff unless you're out there pitching."

Because the Orioles signed Bundy to a major league contract in 2011, they've had to use an

option to send him to the minors every year since 2012. That means he'll be out of options in

2016, forcing the O's to carry him on the active roster or risk losing him on waivers.

Still, even though Bundy knows he can't be optioned in 2016, he isn't taking a major league

roster spot for granted.

"I know all the option stuff and I'm supposed to make the team and all that," Bundy said. "But

I'm going to go into camp just like I have the past four years trying to make the club out of camp.

And if I don't, then hopefully find a spot. But I want to make the team with the Orioles and help

the team win.

Bundy's arm isn't stretched out enough to be a realistic option for the rotation, so the

conventional wisdom is that Bundy -- if healthy on Opening Day -- will start the season in the

Birds' bullpen. The O's could work Bundy along slowly, gradually having him pitch longer

outings as the season progresses, with an eye on returning him to a starter's role in 2017.

"I think if he's healthy, he's going to help us," pitching coach Dave Wallace said during FanFest.

"Whatever capacity that is, I couldn't tell you. But certainly, given his stuff and his

competitiveness, you know that. You can see that. There's no doubt about it."

Assuming Bundy makes it back to the majors in 2016, it'll be a return a long time in the making.

He hasn't made a big league appearance since Sept. 25, 2012, when he worked a scoreless inning

of relief during his Oriole Park at Camden Yards debut.

"It [has been] three and a half, four years, but it really feels longer," Bundy said. "But I can't

really help injuries. All you can do is stay confident and hopefully you'll be fine in the long run.

... It's just like hunting, for me. You've just got to stay patient and wait for the opportunity."

That opportunity is within Bundy's grasp in 2016 -- if his health will finally cooperate.