Jeff Conine

Jeff Conine entered 2002 as the team's jack of all trades, prepared to step in in the OF, or at first or even third, to pick up any slack left by injured or ineffective players. It was hoped, once Jay Gibbons displayed improved outfield acumen, that Conine would spend most of 2002 DH'ing.

In actuality, Conine spent most of the season in the two places the O's could ill afford to have him...at first base, and injured.

Jeff was the Orioles' offense for stretches of the season. He put up 15 RBI in April, and followed that with a .530 slugging percentage in May and another 23 RBI. But he missed a big chunk of June and all of July with injuries, and after a slight torrid streak upon his August return, he faded down the stretch, as did the entire ball club.

Conine, like Mora, is best taken in smaller, 300 AB doses. Conine's versatility and solid stick make him a valuable role player. His lack of power, speed, and mediocre defensive skills make him less valuable as a regular, especially at first base, where he spends the majority of his playing time.

If Conine is playing every day at one position, the 2003 Orioles will be once again damaged offensive goods.

TO CONTRIBUTE SIGNIFICANTLY NEXT YEAR, HE SHOULD:

(1) stay healthy.

(2) manage to split 300-350 AB at first, DH, and the OF.

Notes: stole 8 bases without being caught...hit 8 of his 15 HR in May...hit .419 and slugged .677 against his old Kansas City ball club...hit .317 against Tampa in 60 AB...only hit .163 against the Blue Jays...hit .397/.417/.731 on the first pitch (78 chances)...hit .414 on 1-0 pitches...only hit .245 with runners in scoring position.

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