Baltimore Orioles: Anthony Santander’s stats in 2017

The Baltimore Orioles picked up Anthony Santander as a Rule 5 pick from the Cleveland Indians during the 2017 off-season.

Then, the newly acquired Baltimore Orioles outfielder injured his elbow and had to sit out for most of the season.

As the young player, who is still considered a rookie going into the 2018 season, celebrated his 23rd birthday a few days ago on October 19, it is fitting to look at the little bit of time he spent in the Orioles system.

Santander played in a total of 29 games with the Orioles organization in the 2017 season. In order to stay with the Orioles, he had to be on the roster as soon as he was released from the disabled list.

His short stint in the minor leagues

Prior to playing with the big boys in Baltimore, Santander played one game with the Single-A+ Frederick Keys where he batted .400 in five at-bats. He played 15 games with Double-A Bowie Baysox where he batted a very respectable .380/.458/.780/1.238 with five home runs and 14 RBIs.

Moving up to the Bigs

But when he moved to the MLB for the September call ups, his lack of Major League experience was evident. He did not hit a home run, so Orioles fans can watch for that in 2018. He did finish the season with a slash of .267/.258/.367/.625. Clearly, it was more difficult for him to hit Major League pitchers than it was to hit Double-A pitchers.

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Santander joined the team in its worst month of the season. The Orioles September numbers were pathetic. But it wasn’t his fault. He played in 10 games in September and he had six hits, with three doubles. Unfortunately, when he arrived on base, no one could help him get home. He did not personally cross home plate in September, but he did gain two RBIs.

Just a few complete games

In his time on the roster, he played in only six complete games. Otherwise, he filled in during the ninth innings. So, he did not have many opportunities to contribute. His best game was on September 27 against the Pittsburgh Pirates when he went 3-4 with two doubles.

Santander played both right field and left field, with the majority of his time in right. He had 16 chances to make outs in right field and he managed them all like a professional, especially when he made a highlight-reel worthy catch against Mike Trout in his debut. With the Orioles not being able to find a full-time right-fielder, Santander could be the choice in 2018.

Next: Notorious Orioles pitchers who gave up lots of dingers

However, Santander’s spot with the Orioles is not guaranteed. With the strange Rule 5 rules, he has to be on the Opening Day roster is the Orioles plan to keep him. His limited time on the roster in 2017 makes his future with the O’s uncertain. He will have to show up and fight for that right field spot when Spring Training rolls around in March.