How Orioles' Coby Mayo can finally prove himself in the big leagues

Nobody wants an injury to be the reason why they get a shot at the big league level. For Coby Mayo, though, he understood the reality of his situation.

Mayo found himself in limbo within the Baltimore Orioles organization, without much left to prove at Triple-A Norfolk. The top prospect was tearing the cover off the ball for the Norfolk Tides, but couldn't find a way to break through at the big league level. Jordan Westburg and Ramon Urias had locked down third base, and the duo of Ryan O'Hearn and Ryan Mountcastle were firmly planted at the opposite corner of the diamond. The role of right-handed designated hitter would often fall to Adley Rutschman, too.

Mountcastle's grade 2 hamstring strain, sidelining him for eight to 12 weeks, however, paved the way for Mayo's chance.

"Mounty's a heck of a player and I'm really bummed to see him go down," Mayo said out in West Sacramento. "When you're at this stage in Triple-A and you're kind of sitting around, you compete and perform, you kind of know that sometimes it takes an injury. You're never rooting for it, it always sucks to see."

Mayo has survived a roster crunch that has included the returns of Jordan Westburg and Gary Sanchez, and seems to be in the big leagues for the long haul. At first base, that is, according to Tony Mansolino. It's not his natural position, but Mayo has made great strides there.

Coby Mayo adjusting to everyday life in the big leagues

Only 30 games into his big league career, we still have yet to see Mayo truly come into his own at the dish. But it's important to note that most top prospects in Baltimore's system have struggled upon their initial promotion.

In Colton Cowser's first season, he posted a .433 OPS in 26 games. Adley Rutschman was hitting just .195 after 22 games, and Jackson Holliday had recorded just two hits through his first 10 appearances.

The difference for Mayo this time around, though, is the opportunity. In his first two stretches in the big leagues, the high school draft pick was constantly on the roster bubble, surely adding pressure to his major league debut. Now, Mayo has a bit more assurance, knowing that his roster spot is his to lose. If he can produce, he'll stay with the big league club.

Mayo's breakout has yet to come, but the talent is surely there. It's just a matter of time before we see another one of the Orioles' top prospects living up to their potential in the big leagues.

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