Walter Young

Young might be the Oriole whose future is hardest to predict for 2006. While he's blasted 116 homers in 2491 minor league at-bats, including 46 in the high minors the last two seasons, questions remain about the his weight (the 6-5 Young ballooned to 320 pounds last season), defense and high strikeout rate. Even though Young impressed during his September call-up, going 10-for-33 with a double and home run, the Orioles have made a run at numerous free agent first basemen and are likely to bring one in before spring training. Additionally, the team's acquisition of Ramon Hernandez behind the plate forces Javy Lopez into a regular DH or first base role if the team doesn't trade him, further cutting into Young's opportunities. Young will have to mash during spring training to earn regular at-bats, but even if he does don't bet the farm on him gaining a starting role with the team until you read it in print.