Just a tremendous article from The Sun’s Peter Schmuck on the O’s 1st round pick Matt Hobgood.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bal-schmuck627,0,409380.column
Again, it becomes clear that the O’s Scouting Director Joe Jordan and his staff identified the player they wanted, and selected him.
We will all see how Hobgood develops, but seeing he has maturity is a good-sign.
Jordan having the ability to draft who he wants, is an even better sign for the Organization.
The article states that Hobgood will be sent to Bluefield. Bluefield is probably a 1/2 step behind Aberdeen as short-season Rookie League /A ball.
What will be interesting to see, is where Hobgood starts 2010.
Will he be held back in extended Spring Training, or could he earn a chance to join Delmarva and a full-season league?
Best case scenario for his path to the bigs:
2009: Bluefield
2010: Delmarva
2011: Frederick
2012: Bowie
2013: Norfolk
Between mid-2012, and 2013 he could become an option for the O’s.
If he has any set-backs or injuries; could be looking more at 2014.
Signing a High-school talent like Hobgood is similar to investing, you need a long-term approach.
At-least the extremely early returns are promising.
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Chris Stoner founded Baltimore Sports and Life in 2009. He has appeared as a radio guest with 1090 WBAL, 105.7 The Fan, CBS 1300, Q1370, WOYK 1350, WKAV 1400, and WNST 1570. He has also been interviewed by The Baltimore Sun, Baltimore Business Journal, and PressBox (TV). As Owner, his responsibilities include serving as the Managing Editor, Publicist, & Sales Director.