Orioles’ Future Stars Recognized

Prior to the series finale last night against the Reds, the Baltimore Orioles recognized their Minor Leaguers who performed the best throughout the 2014 season.

Brooks Robinson Minor League Player of the Year

Despite many players performing well this season, Christian Walker without a doubt was the best player in the Orioles’ Farm System this year. Starting the year out in Double-A Bowie, Walker batted .301 with a .367 on-base percentage. What gained Walker notoriety was his ability to hit the “long ball.”

Walker hit 20 home runs in the first half of the season. He also had 77 RBI while with the Baysox. This led to his promotion up to Triple-A ball with the Norfolk Tides. While in Norfolk, he batted .259 with six home runs and 19 RBI.

Orioles fans should expect this up-and-coming star to make his Major League debut next season.

Jim Palmer Minor League Pitcher of the Year

Tyler Wilson was the most accomplished pitcher the Orioles saw in their Minor League System. Wilson also started the year off in Double-A Bowie and finished the year in Triple-A Norfolk.

His combined 2014 stats looked like this: 14-8 overall record; 3.67 ERA; 166.2 innings pitched; 1.230 WHIP

Elrod Hendricks Minor League Community Service Award

While with the Frederick Keys, Mark Blackmar displayed exceptional dedication to serve in the local community. Blackmar made many appearances in the Frederick community representing the Keys including helping with a camp at the stadium, telling stories to children at multiple library appearances, and mingling with fans at the annual Celtic festival.

Although he was traded away to the White Sox on August 30th, the Orioles appreciate what Blackmar did for the local community. 

Cal Ripken Sr. Player Development Award

The Delmarva Shorebirds coaching staff of Ryan Minor (manager), Alan Mills (pitching coach), Paco Figueroa (hitting coach), and Shawn McGill (coach) has been named the winner of the Cal Ripken Sr. Player Development Award. 

This award is presented to the minor league coaching staff who best exemplifies the qualities of the late Earl Weaver. The Delmarva coaching staff produced seven league All-Stars and the league batting champion.

Jim Russo Scout of the Year Award

Midwest supervisor Jim Richardson earned the Scout of the Year honor. Richardson has been an Orioles scout for the past 10 drafts, beginning in 2004. Some of his draft signees include Zach Britton and Kevin Gausman.