The Baltimore Orioles Collection of Middle Infielders

Oct 1, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles shortstop Paul Janish (15) turns a double play as Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Jonathan Diaz (1) attempts to slide into second base in the ninth inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. The Orioles won 6-4. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Both Ryan Flaherty and Paul Janish were utility infielders for the Baltimore Orioles in 2015, and both hope to do the same next year.

Flaherty has now played large portions of four years with the Orioles. His occasional power is appreciated, as is his excellent defense. And of course he can play more positions than middle infield, including first base, third base, and the corner outfield positions. This bring a measure of value to a team.

At the same time, his extended hitting slumps are simply deadly. Local beat writer Rich Dubroff summarized this in a single paragraph, saying …

"Last year, Flaherty suffered through a horrid stretch where he went 0-for-34, the longest hitless streak by an Orioles position player in more than 40 years. He also ended the year wearing an 0-for-19 collar."

That is simply unacceptable and is the reason I have become somewhat infamous among regular readers for my Flaherty disaffection. To the Orioles: please, move on!

Yet at the same time, Paul Janish is not a proven better hitter, though his defense at shortstop is nearly impeccable. But the veteran journeyman did hit well for the O’s in his late-season stint with the team by going 10-for-36 in 14 games (.286).

Here is a comparison of the two players in terms of charting their career numbers …

If each has an equal spring season, it would appear that Flaherty would have the edge, unless J.J. Hardy has continued injury problems (which is believable). Even so, Flaherty is expected to get about $1.5 million as arbitration-eligible, whereas Janish’s expectation for the same is only $600K. Yet again, Flaherty has an option, whereas Janish does not.

Next: Tolleson looks decent on paper ... no kidding ...