That pipeline of talent that general manager Mike Elias has often referenced in his 4+ years in charge of the Orioles finally started to produce worthwhile big leaguers last summer. As a result, the on-field product was finally worth watching in 2022. And although they ultimately missed out on postseason baseball, the team was playing meaningful games in September.
Much of that turnaround was led by catcher Adley Rutschman, a can’t-miss talent who Elias wisely selected with his first draft pick as Orioles’ boss in 2019. The Oregon State product was a do-it-all leader that brought defensive prowess behind the plate and impressive production at it.