Orioles Offer Hidalgo A Contract

ThomasTomasz · **Orioles Offer Hidalgo A Contract -** 02-18-2006, 05:20 PM

Update: The Orioles have offered Hidalgo a minor league deal laden with incentives, and are awaiting word on whether he'll accept, the Baltimore Sun reports.

Recommendation: Hidalgo would be in contention for the Orioles' starting left field spot, but even if he secured a starting role he certainly wouldn't get the no-hit-some-power leeway he's received in other places he's played in recent years.

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slu...wire&type=lgns

ThomasTomasz · 02-18-2006, 05:21 PM

Hidalgo's chances for a spot in the starting lineup is doubtful, and his chance for even a roster spot are slim. Right now, its shaping up for Javy Lopez to start around 3 games a week at 1B, 2 at DH, and sometimes catch two games a week. When Lopez isn't at first, Conine will certainly be splitting time with Millar, if he doesn't win the job outright. Both Conine and Millar will also be fighting for time in the outfield with Luis Matos, Corey Patterson, and two prospects in Val Majewski and Nick Markasis, not to mention Hidalgo if he signs. I don't see a spot in the lineup for him, and this would be a wasted signing. No use for him in this lineup.