Lou Montanez, the Eastern League Triple Crown winner in 2008 (.335 AVG, 26 HRs, 97 RBIs) was called upon last season by the Orioles on August 5th and added excitement to the club for the rest of the season.
Though his defense in left field was a little shaky at times, it did improve during his two months in the bigs.
Photo from BaltimoreSun.com
Montanez’s offense was the aspect of his game that was really appealing to the Orioles. He finished the season batting .295 with 3 homeruns, 14 RBIs, a .316 OBP, and was always exciting to watch on the bases.
I personally enjoyed watching Montanez play in the outfield with Adam Jones and Nick Markakis, while Luke Scott DH’ed.
So what’s the problem? Well the Orioles have a crowded outfield for the 2009 season. Seven to be exact. Ryan Freel, Adam Jones, Nick Markakis, Luke Scott, Felix Pie, Nolan Reimold, and Lou Montanez.
My assumption would be that Felix Pie would get the starting role in left field and Scott would DH. Ryan Freel and Felix Pie were picked up in the off season which probably means that the Birds are looking to build with out Lou.
Would you really give up on a Triple Crown Winner who had a successful season couple months in the Majors?
The O’s should have Montanez, and Pie battling for LF. With Scott platooning as a DH/0F. I really like what I see in this youthful OF. The Freel pickup seemed to be frivilous.
Apparently Freel is pretty versatile. He can play just about any where. But I agree, Montanez vs. Pie.
Freel can back up your middle infield too. Wigginton backs up the corners. The best part is Trembly’s option to play the hot bat with a group of guys that are pretty much equal.
Yeah that’s a good point. Competition is never a bad thing.
Freel can back up your middle infield too. Wigginton backs up the corners. The best part is Trembly's option to play the hot bat with a group of guys that are pretty much equal.