The Baltimore Orioles, who have a 9-1 spring record after winning another game yesterday, continue to be the dominant team in the Grapefruit League.
In the spring, victories are meaningless, particularly when they are the consequence of TT Bowens hitting a three-run home run. With all due respect, Bowens was moved about to make room on the roster for yesterday’s game against the Pirates, along with a few other minor league players. As an undrafted free agent, Bowens is not being considered for a spot on the squad. Greg Cullen and Daniel Johnson—two more names you won’t see on the squad on Opening Day—were on board when Bowens hit his home run.
Still, it was a thrilling home run.Bowens came to the plate with the game tied in top of the ninth and smashed the Earl Weaver Special.
You may question, “But what about the players with a higher pedigree?” When Grayson Rodriguez took the mound for the Orioles, he didn’t seem to be at the top of his game. He informed reporters after the game that his reduced velocity was deliberate as he concentrated on other issues, but his changeup looked excellent.
Despite just having one hit in yesterday’s game, Colton Cowser made the most of it. Against Martin Pérez of the Pirates, he launched his third home run of the spring. Despite not starting the game, spring training standout Kyle Stowers scored an RBI single in the eighth inning while pinch hitting.
Heston Kjerstad’s game didn’t go well; he went hitless throughout. Kjerstad feels like he’s not the only one who hasn’t had a wonderful spring. Well, there’s still some time!
Good news and Bad news
There’s both good and bad news regarding the Orioles’ 1:05 PM home game against the Twins today. The good news is that Gunnar Henderson is anticipated to participate in his spring game. Unfortunately, there is no TV or radio version of the game, so you will have to trust the beat reporters’ description of Gunnar’s performance.