Orioles Outfielder To Have New Secondary Position This Season

In five full seasons in the majors, comprising 438 games, Baltimore Orioles outfield staple Anthony Santander has played all 438 of those contests right there, in the outfield. But in a bid to add a bit more versatility to his game, Santander will be trying something new during the last week of spring training.

Brandon Hyde said Anthony Santander will see some innings at first before spring ends.

Also, on WBC: "So proud of him," Hyde said. "Super happy for him and his family, to do what he did on a big stage like that, get national exposure. He's earned it." https://t.co/HqmBqSlIev

— Andy Kostka (@afkostka) March 21, 2023

The 28-year-old will be getting in some reps at first base as camp begins to wind down, according to manager Brandon Hyde. With longtime first base option Trey Mancini not on the club this year, Hyde is hoping that Santander can offer some backup for starter Ryan Mountcastle at first. 

Santander last played 1B when he made nine appearances there while in High-A way back in 2016. He tried his hand there for four innings early this spring training before leaving to join Venezuela at the World Baseball Classic for the last few weeks. 

He blasted a career-high 33 HR and 89 RBIs last season for the O's , with a .773 OPS.

Photo: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports