Here's the Baltimore Orioles lineup for their game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Like many teams around the majors, the Orioles made some changes over the offseason. These are the players they will put on the field and the batting order for the Orioles as they look to repeat as a playoff contender out of the A.L. East.
Welcome back Brian Roberts! The second baseman is back and healthy in 2013. Well, at least he was healthy during Spring Training. He is one of the biggest changes in the Orioles lineup as he gives them a more secure option at second despite his injury riddled past.
Manny Machado played so well at such a pivotal time of the year that he will get the start in the 2013 season at third base. The Orioles let go of Mark Reynolds allowing Machado to fill in that empty spot in the field.
Here's the batting order for the Orioles as they get ready to kickoff their 2013 season.
1. Nick Markakis RF
2. Manny Machado 3B
3. Adam Jones CF
4. Matt Wieters C
5. Chris Davis 1B
6. J.J. Hardy SS
7. Nolan Reimold LF
8. Steve Pearce DH
9. Brian Roberts 2B
On the mound for the Orioles will be Jason Hammel.
As you can see, Roberts, who looks more like a traditional leadoff hitter, will be closing out the lineup before giving way to Markakis. However, the setup is perfect for when Roberts leads off innings since he can get on base and use some of his speed to start rallies.
The Orioles lineup will have to face reigning A.L. Cy Young Award winner, David Rice. They might need some luck in this game.
