Robert Andino, a 2nd round pick out of high school in the 2002 draft by the Florida Marlins, is looking to this spring as an opportunity to earn a utility role with the Baltimore Orioles. After being traded to the organization in return for Hayden Penn right before the 2009 season, Andino has compiled 281 plate appearances through multiple stints with the major league club to the tune of a .239 average. As a September call-up last year under new Manager Buck Showalter, Andino hit .295 in 66 plate appearances with 2 HRs and 4 doubles.
Always being known for his unsteady glove, Andino’s numbers defensively are not as poor as one may think. With a career .970 fielding percentage overall (at 5 positions), Andino’s glovework is something that definitely needs improvement, but is getting better as time has gone on. After horrendous years at SS in games for the Marlins, Andino actually had a positive UZR at each of the infield positions he played last season.
Battling with Nick Green, Brendan Harris, and others for a utility spot on the club, Andino has his work cut out for him in March. With options left, Andino could end up as Norfolk’s starting SS come April, or the Orioles 2nd utility infielder (with Cesar Izturis), all depending on how Spring Training goes.
