Freddie Bynum

2013

There was no outlook written for Freddie Bynum.

2009

The Orioles didn't trust Bynum with the shortstop job, so they signed the defensive-minded Juan Castro. Meanwhile, there was no room for Bynum to see any playing time in the outfield either. Bynum signed a minor league deal with the Nats this offseason, where his playing time potential is equally grim.

2008

Being versatile enough to play both the infield and the outfield is a nice thing, but it's somewhat overrated if that versatility doesn't come along with an ability to get on base. Bynum walked just twice in 96 at-bats with the O's last year, and has never been much of an on-base guy. At best he'll be the last man on the O's bench this season, and more likely will end up losing his roster spot.

2007

Bynum can steal a bag if needed, but he doesn't hit for power nor make contact or walk enough to see regular at-bats at the major league level. He'll fight for a roster spot with the Orioles this spring.

2006

Bynum's only real hope at a career is as a utility player who can steal the occasional base. Limited power and somewhat suspect defense won't help his cause.

2005

Bynum has been moved to the outfield now for defensive purposes, but doesn't walk enough or hit for enough power to be considered anything more than a eventual utility player.

2004

Bynum strikes out too much for a middle infielder with mild power. 2004 is the year he needs to show the A's he can step it up a notch at Triple-A.

2003

The A's moved him to second base in 2002, after splitting time between second and shortstop in his brief pro career. Defense continues to be a problem, as he committed 36 errors. Moved back to shortstop in a brief AFL stint this past fall, and showed some signs of improvement at Visalia. He has loads of speed, though he'll need to improve his technique if he wants to eventually be a stolen base threat in the big leagues.