The Baltimore Orioles welcomed their newest young star to the big leagues on Monday: shortstop Jordan Westburg made his much-awaited debut.
He has been posting excellent numbers at Triple-A since last season, actually, so the move was long overdue.
The rookie went 1-for-4 with a run, an RBI, and a walk, so he looked the part for a game at least.
The Orioles won convincingly against the Cincinnati Reds, so it was a perfect day for Westburg.
The infielder discussed his MLB debut and was thrilled with the whole experience of playing in front of his new fans at Camden Yards.
“Jordan Westburg on taking field for #Orioles for 1st time: ‘I just wanted to look around, take in the atmosphere, the environment, the people. This is something I’ve never been a part of before, so it’s just really special,’” Orioles insider Jake Rill tweeted.
Jordan Westburg on taking field for #Orioles for 1st time: “I just wanted to look around, take in the atmosphere, the environment, the people. This is something I’ve never been a part of before, so it’s just really special.”
— Jake Rill (@JakeDRill) June 27, 2023
Big things are expected from Westburg this year.
In 301 plate appearances in Triple-A Norfolk, the 2020 draftee hit .295/.372/.567 with 18 home runs, 57 runs, 54 RBI, and six stolen bases.
He has shown during his minor league career that he can do it all at the dish: hit for average, get walks, and hit for power.
He is also a versatile defender who can play shortstop, second and third base, plus the two outfield corners in a pinch.
He will be an asset for the Orioles as long as he can translate the offensive numbers he had at Norfolk to the major leagues.
Only time will tell if he will be able to do that, but his talent has never been in question.
