Sarasota; Tuesday, February 21: Today was a busy day at camp. The most exciting event was the first intrasquad 6-inning scrimmage this afternoon. During the game, was announced that the Orioles had acquired LHP Richard Bleier from the New York Yankees in exchange for a player to be named later. To make room on the 40-man roster, INF/OF Christian Walker has been designated for assignment. This explains why Walker is not on the field playing 1B as published in the pregame lineup card. David Washington is playing in his spot on the “Black” Visitors team. The “Home” team wore orange jerseys.
According to the Orioles press release, Bleier, 29, went 55-57 with a 4.02 ERA (413 ER/925.1 IP) in 241 career minor league games (123 starts). He made his Major League debut on May 30, 2016 against Toronto. In the month of September, he made seven relief appearances, posting a 0.00 ERA (9.2 IP) while allowing three hits with two walks and seven strikeouts. He was originally drafted by the Texas Rangers in the sixth round of the 2008 First-Year Player Draft.
Walker, 25, batted .264/.342/.449 with 18 home runs and 64 RBI in 131 games for Norfolk last season. He has appeared in 13 Major League games, batting .148/.258/.296 with one home run and one RBI.
Getting back to the scrimmage, a pitcher pitches only one inning. Manager Buck Showalter runs a quick drill – such as a pick off play or bunt defense – between innings. Mike Wright started for the home Orange team and Ty Wilson for the visiting black jerseys. Here are some of the other pitchers scheduled; Logan Verret, Zach Stewart, Jason Garcia, Jayson Aquino, and Joe Gunkel for the orange team. Gabriel Ynoa, Donnie Hart, Oliver Drake, Parker Bridwell and Richard Rodriguez are scheduled for the black shirts.
By the way, it was a scoreless tie.
In related news, Matt Wieters has signed with the Washington Nationals.
Here are some photos you may enjoy seeing.
SS Manny Machado at bat.
CF Adam Jones at bat.
Starting pitcher Mike Wright and pitching coach Roger McDowell.
Opposing starter Ty Wilson.
1B Chris Davis.
OF Hyun Soo Kim.
