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Baltimore Orioles: Is Orioles’ Adam Jones still the premiere center fielder in AL East?

By Nate Wardle

Sep 23, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles outfielder Adam Jones (10) warms up prior to the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles outfielder Adam Jones (10) warms up prior to the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /
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3. Tampa Bay Rays

Rays’ CFs – Kevin Kiermaier, Mallex Smith

Kiermaier rates out as possibly the best outfield defender in the game. His range factor is much better than league average, his total fielding runs above average was an impressive 10, his defensive runs saved was a ridiculous 25, and his dWAR led the American League. He also won a Gold Glove.

Kiermaier isn’t a slouch at the plate either, but I think it is safe to say the Rays are expecting more. In 2016, Kiermaier hit .246/.331/.410 with 12 HRs, 20 2Bs, 37 RBIs, 55 runs and 21 stolen bases in 105 games.

These numbers are all-around stat filling, but Kiermaier has, even more, power potential. He also is not a guy who strikes out an obscene amount, and in an entirely healthy season, which he was not in 2016, could feature even more stolen bases.

Kiermaier is the full package, but he hasn’t been healthy enough to put a season together that makes him worthy of a higher slot. A good year in 2017 will change that.

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