Jay Gibbons

One of the few really bright spots for the 2001 Orioles, Jay Gibbons arrived on the scene as a Rule 5 acquisition by the Orioles from the Toronto Blue Jays. This meant, of course, that he had to remain on the Oriole roster all season or be offered back to the Jays. With the removal of Albert Belle from the active player roster, this was not really a difficulty.

Gibbons, a well-muscled first sacker reminiscent of ex-Oriole Mickey Tettleton, was slowly introduced into the lineup by manager Mike Hargrove. Though possessing a sweet level swing, the length of the swing concerned Grover, feeling that Gibbons would be especially susceptible to the breaking balls and curves he would see in the bigs (Gibbons had played most of the 2000 season at the AA level.)

As it turned out, Gibbons got more and more playing time, as injuries and ineffectiveness reduced Hargrove's outfield options. Gibbons actually played 28 games as a left fielder, and, although certainly not displaying lightning speed or incredible skill, displayed an ability to get the job done, especially with Camden Yards' small left field.

The best thing about Gibbons proved to be his stroke. A smooth and easy swinger, Gibbons showed strength of an exceptional nature. Six of his 15 home runs were hit to left field, and several of his homers over the right field wall were of the 'moon shot' variety. Although he was certainly vulnerable to the wiles and skills of ML pitchers, for a young man who had faced mostly 22-year-olds in preparation acquitted himself reasonably well.

A wrist injury unfortunately ended his season in early August, as he had struggled with it for some time prior (which may have explained why he did not receive more playing opportunities.) He had surgery on the wrist, which is always a chancy proposition, and was unable to participate in the Arizona Fall League. He reports that the wrist is completely healed, and that he expects to challenge for a position on the 2002 roster. If the Orioles acquire another outfielder in the off-season, it could limit Gibbons' playing time, or even his ability to make the roster.

Gibbons is only 25 entering the 2002 season. He has a bright future in MLB, from all indications, especially if he can develop sufficient skills to play an outfield position. Oriole fans should be hoping he will have every opportunity to play for the Orioles in 2002.

To contribute to the Orioles in 2002, Gibbons must:

(1.) recover sufficiently from his wrist injury. similar injuries have taken over a year to heal.

(2.) develop a better eye at the plate. Although his strikeout count was actually low for a player of his type, if he could walk more and/or provide more base hits, he will be a valuable player.

(3.) continue to work on his outfielding skills. If he can play left as well as DH and play first, he'll be much more valuable.

(4.) work on hitting right-handers. His reverse platoon numbers were extreme in 2001 (.370 against lefties, .217 against right-handers.)

Notes: hit 5 home runs while slugging .848 in 9 games against the Blue Jays...only hit .174 in 8 games against the Yankees...like many of the younger O's, hit much better away from Camden Yards (.252/.217)...hit .320 in 50 AB hitting in the #7 hole...was 3 for 9 with a homer as a pinch hitter...slugged .508 after the All-Star break.