Baltimore Orioles’ success in 2015 could rely on David Lough

Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

In 2014, the Baltimore Orioles won their first division title and made it to their first American League since 1997. They hope to build on their recent success in 2015. This, however, will rely heavily on the success of outfielder David Lough.

Lough joined the ball club in the off-season after the 2013 season. In 2014, Lough saw a limited role with the Orioles as he only appeared in 112 games. In 2014, he batted .247/.309/.385 with 13 extra-base hits and 16 RBI.

Despite his rough start, Lough finished 2014 strong as he batted .351/.387/.544 after the All-Star Break.

Now, with Nick Markakis and Nelson Cruz gone, Lough is going to have an even more important role in 2015.

Last season, Lough played in 85 games out in left field and play six games in right field. However, Orioles fans may see him more in right come this April.

Before joining the Orioles, Lough played most of his major league games in right field. With his quick jump on the ball and stellar fielding ability, Lough may be Markakis’ replacement.

In his three years in the Majors, L0ugh has batted best when batting eighth in the lineup. When batting eighth, he batting average increases to .336. The Orioles were lacking some consistency in the lower part of the lineup so Lough could help the team out in that regard.

Numbers aside, Lough has the intangible stuff that makes a great ball player. He trains hard in the off-season and plays the game even harder. When you see other players show some fatigue during the long 162-game season, Lough does not know the meaning of the word “fatigue.”

When trying to put together a championship team, Lough is the player who you need in your lineup.