Predicting the Baltimore Orioles starting lineup after the trade deadline

7. Rougned Odor/Terrian Vavra, Orioles Platooned Second Basemen

I am writing this as Rougned Odor has just tied the Baltimore Orioles up against the Rangers. With his raw power, and veteran poise, it’s hard to find him anywhere but in this lineup. However, with certain moves come particular roster openings.

Terrian Vavra has been a complete terror for the Norfolk Tides opposition, and Mike Elias would be wise to give him a chance in The Show. If Vavra gets the call to come up, expect he and Rougie to share time at 2B as the O’s work through the rest of the 2022 campaign.

8. Ryan McKenna/Kyle Stowers, Orioles Platooned Left Fielders

Just like at second base, expect left field to have a platoon effect to it. Ryan McKenna has taken his second call-up of the year with heart and has held his own for the Baltimore Orioles. He has finally figured out big-league pitching and deserves a spot on this year’s roster.

With him, however, will be Kyle Stowers. Stowers has already gotten a shot this year with the big club and didn’t exactly hit it in stride. His first MLB hit was a double, scoring Adley Rutschman, but that was where the fun ended. I predict that McKenna and Stowers will be sharing time out in left and hitting somewhere near the bottom of this lineup.

Predicting the Baltimore Orioles starting lineup after the trade deadline

9. Jorge Mateo, Orioles starting Shortstop

Last but certainly not least, we have Jorge Mateo. What an absolute surprise he has become this year and will continue to be in the future. Mateo is a sure hand at Shortstop and has sometimes been clutch in the box. The role of the number nine hitter is to turn the lineup over; challenge accepted.

In the long run, this lineup will work, but it will certainly not win the Baltimore Orioles a World Championship. However, it is a step in the right direction. With the right moves and the right roster call-ups, the 2022 O’s can continue this rebuild down the right path.