There’s interest in Baltimore to see how the 35-year-old will transition to Major League Baseball. But there could be even more eyes coming from abroad, as Japanese baseball fans focus on the Orioles more than ever before.
Suárez enters spring training this year as a favorite to make the opening day roster. He’ll most likely feature in a bullpen role, but Suárez said “being available” for anything is the most important thing he can bring to the Orioles.
Sugano, the 35-year-old right-hander making a jump to Major League Baseball as one of Japan’s most accomplished pitchers, showed off his elite command during his 35-pitch bullpen session.
“The way baseball operates, as you know, you get these long-term deals. If a player gets injured his first year and can’t play again, what do you do?” Rubenstein said.
The Orioles catcher suffered through a slump in the second half of the season that was compounded the team’s second straight failure to win a playoff game.
“But fans at home, I promise you, we’re preaching sound baseball philosophy and things that have worked in this game for 200 years, from Ted Williams to Pete Rose to Tony Gwynn,” Asche said.
“I’m not 100%, but I would say about 85%, and I do think for opening day I would be at 100%,” Bautista said Friday through team interpreter Brandon Quinones.
“President Kennedy would be proud of your selfless work, your long hours, your commitment to excellence, and your dedication to the performing arts," Rubenstein said in reference to president Deborah Rutter, who was fired.