Mailbag

Who is Orioles’ ‘Alpha Dog?’ | MAILBAG

SCROLL DOWN TO READ ARTICLE

Question: Who would you consider the “alpha dog” in the Orioles’ clubhouse? From: Michael Soldavini

Answer: Michael, that’s a question I hadn’t contemplated before. For the moment, I would say Adley Rutschman is the “alpha dog,” but Tyler O’Neill with his chiseled body and attention to body building could grow into that role.

Question: How does Samuel Basallo talk to the pitchers if he needs an interpreter? From: Tony D’Angelo

Answer: Tony, Basallo uses an interpreter for interviews. His English has improved markedly, and soon may not choose to use one for interviews. Many players decide to use interpreters to make sure their thoughts are clear. He’s able to communicate well enough in English, as is Gary Sánchez, who also uses an interpreter, to deal effectively with pitchers.

CONTINUE READING BELOW

Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.

 

Rich Dubroff

Rich Dubroff grew up in Brooklyn as a fan of New York teams, but after he moved to Baltimore, quickly adopted the Orioles and Colts. After nearly two decades as a freelancer assisting on Orioles coverage for several outlets, principally The Capital in Annapolis and The Carroll County Times, Dubroff began covering the team fulltime in 2011. He spent five years at Comcast SportsNet’s website and for the last two seasons, wrote for PressBoxonline.com, Dubroff lives in Baltimore with his wife of more than 30 years, Susan.

Share
Published by
Rich Dubroff

Recent Posts

  • Spring Training

Hyde on Henderson: ‘We are running out of time’; Bautista uncertain for Opening Day; Morton to start Game 2

SARASOTA—After Thursday night’s Orioles-Yankees game, there are three games left on the Grapefruit League schedule…

March 20, 2025
  • Spring Training

Henderson tops roster decisions a week before Orioles start season

SARASOTA—The Orioles return from their second and final offday with 41 players left in camp…

March 20, 2025
  • The Bird Tapes

The Real Steve Dalkowski: Orioles’ hardest thrower lived a hard-luck life

In the chapter on Steve Dalkowski in my 2001 book on Orioles history, I quoted…

March 19, 2025
  • Spring Training

Povich makes case for 5th starter in Orioles’ 8-2 win over Blue Jays; Hyde on Mayo’s demotion

SARASOTA--What’s happening? The Orioles optioned first baseman/third baseman Coby Mayo to minor league camp. They…

March 19, 2025
  • Spring Training

Orioles option Mayo to minor league camp: ‘A lose-lose going to Norfolk’; Basallo’s camp ends

SARASOTA—The Orioles optioned first baseman/third baseman Coby Mayo to their minor league camp and assigned…

March 18, 2025
  • Mailbag

Will Sugano start Orioles’ home opener? | MAILBAG

Question: I know Zach Eflin is starting for the Orioles in their opener in Toronto,…

March 18, 2025