If you read the fine print of outfielder Chris Roberson's acquisition from the Phillies, you would have noticed that in order to make room for him on the 40 man roster, outfielder Jeff Fiorentino was designated for assignment. In the process of his removal from the 40 man roster, he was exposed to waivers and claimed by the Cincinnati Reds. Fiorentino, a 24 year old left handed hitter, spent the last two seasons at Class AA Bowie. The 2007 season saw him hit .282 with 15 home runs, 65 RBI, 68 runs scored, a .346 OBP and .445 SLG in 126 games. He projects as a 4th outfielder in the major leagues, but he'll most likely end up back at Class AA or AAA for the 2008 season.
Fiorentino has seen some playing time for the Orioles in the 2005 and 2006 seasons. It wasn't much of a sample size (only 83 at bats total), but my impressions were that he had a nice short stroke and could be a solid player. He obviously had some more developing to do, though, and that's why he's still in the minor leagues.
I have to say that I'm disappointed to see Fiorentino go, but Roberson is more likely to help the big league ball club now, so it's an understandable move.
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Wow... I didn't realize Jeff Fiorentino had 15 homers in 2007. That's more power than I thought, and probably one of the higher totals in the O's farm system.
Among those with actual prospect status, Fiorentino's 15 homers, sadly, was one of the higher totals. His teammate, Nolan Reimold surely would have had more, and possibly led the O's farm system in homers if he hadn't battled an oblique injury most of the season. As it was, he finished with 11.
There were 2 prospects with more homers than Fio though; 1B Chris Vineyard (16 homers) and OF Brandon Tripp (19 homers). They both played for Delmarva and are 21 and 22 years old. The farm system leader in homers was 25 yr. old 1B Luis Jimenez (who is now with the Nationals) with 23 homers. 3B Oscar Salazar (29 yrs. old), back from a stint in Japan, I think, had 22 home runs.
Could you please write a post about how impossible it is that Brian Roberts took steroids?!
Or how about a post that just says "Brian Roberts is hot!"
(Sorry, couldn't resist...and Jason knows I think he's cute...so...anyway...)
in the few games that fiorentino played in I really liked him as a player. seemed like the kinda guy who hustled really hard and played some solid defense. bummer to see him go but lets hope this guy from Philly can help us get back on track.
Heather,
How can I argue against Brian Roberts' steroid use? He admitted to have taken it. The debate should be whether he really only took it once like he says.
The debate should be whether or not Sarah should sleep on the couch for that "hot" comment about Brian Roberts.
lol...you two are too funny :)
More to the topic - how about a post or series on what you would do if you were given the GM job. How long would it take to get this franchise back to post season contention?
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