If you want to stay positive about the Orioles at the major-league level, there are really only a handful of things that you could focus on. In the last few days, that would include the random and hilarious 13-0 drubbings of the Cleveland Indians in consecutive games. But player-wise in the first half, you could include the play of John Means, Trey Mancini and a few others. It's hard to top the sudden ascension of Means and his somewhat surprising All-Star nod, but catcher Pedro Severino comes close.
After yet another torrid spring, Chance Sisco was assumed to be a shoo-in for one of the opening day catcher spots. But near the end of spring training, the Orioles claimed Severino off waivers from the Washington Nationals. Two days later, Sisco was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk, and Austin Wynns was placed on the injured list with an oblique strain. Severino made the opening day roster along with Jesus Sucre and was destined to get an early-season look.
Known for his strong throwing arm, Severino has mostly surprised with his work at the dish, not behind it. He didn't play quite as much in his first full month with the Orioles, but he's consistently hit much better than expected in each month:
