2010 MLB Preview: Baltimore Orioles Fantasy Baseball Impact

On the surface the 2010 Orioles appear much like a bowl of plain oatmeal: very little flavor. In reality, though, what they have is some of the best young fantasy baseball talent in the game.

The Orioles' impact on your league will be dependent on how those players develop throughout the year. Brian Roberts and Nick Markakis are established veterans that will be solid fantasy options in 2010. However, today we are going to spend some time taking a closer look at the unknown commodities of the Orioles.

Adam Jones

Jones started to have the breakout season that everyone was expecting since he came over in the trade that sent Erik Bedard over to the Seattle Mariners in 2008. In the first half he batted .303 with 12 home runs and 47 RBI, earning a spot on the American League All-Star team. 

Unfortunately, he was hampered by injuries in the second half and only batted .222 in 169 plate appearances. Expect the now-healthy 23-year-old Jones to continue to emerge as one of the game's top centerfielders. Don’t hesitate to take him as your second outfielder.

Matt Wieters

Wieters was widely considered the top prospect in baseball last season. This had fantasy owners excited to see him make his debut last May.

Since expectations were so high, owners seemed disappointed with Wieters’ numbers. He finished with nine homers, 43 RBI, and a .288 batting average. More disheartening, however, were his 28 walks compared with 86 strikeouts. This ratio definitely does not live up to the Joe Mauer comparison. 

What we need to keep in mind about Wieters is that he plays the thinnest position in fantasy baseball. Wieters could easily become the third best fantasy catcher in the league this year. Since he is 23, he is worth drafting in the middle rounds as your starter. Expect about 20 homers and 90 RBI from Wieters this season, which are great numbers from a starting catcher. 

Brad Bergesen

Bergesen flew under the fantasy radar last season but put together a decent season. He had a winning record, a 3.43 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 2.0 K/BB ratio. These numbers are not going to win you a championship, but they are signs that Bergesen could be a late-round steal if he is able to replicate his success from 2009. Draft Bergesen as a fourth or fifth starter.

Draft Order

1. Nick Markakis (OF) - He should be a solid second outfielder once again.
2. Brian Roberts (2B) – On the fringe of premier second basemen if he can top 30 SB again.
3. Matt Wieters (C) – Wieters could become the second-ranked catcher by seasons end.
4. Adam Jones (OF) – Take a chance on Jones as your second OF and hope he produces like half one of 2009.
5. Miguel Tejada (IF) – Tejada’s skills are on the decline, but he is still a solid option for your bench
6. Brad Bergesen (SP) – The 24 year old should build on an impressive rookie season
7. Brian Matusz (SP) – A highly touted prospect that has yet to prove himself—worth a late round selection
8. Nolan Reimold (OF) – Will produce nice numbers if he becomes a full-time starter.