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It's been a bit of a shaky season for the Baltimore Orioles. They head into Friday's game in fourth place in the American League East with their 33-37 record.
A reason for their struggles certainly comes with the starting rotation. Baltimore has lost a ton of starters to the IL this year, like Zach Eflin undergoing Tommy John surgery, ending his season, but he's not the only one dealing with injuries.
Chris Bassitt was also placed on the IL alongside Dean Kremer and Cade Povich. They have also seen position players like Jordan Westburg, Ryan Mountcastle, and Adley Rutschman hit the IL as well.
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Heavy hitter favored to land with the Orioles in latest mock draft
Despite the injuries, the Orioles are still in the thick of things. They are just 9.5 games behind the Tampa Bay Rays, and there's a ton of time to turn this thing around.
So, while the team focuses on closing the gap, the front office is focused on the draft.
Baltimore will be drafting with pick No. 7, and according to The Athletic's Keith Law, they are linked to a bat. Law predicts the club will draft prep outfielder Eric Booth Jr., but also throws out a few other options.
"I've only heard the Orioles connected with bats, again, although as with the Kansas City Royals, I wonder if Jackson Flora is the one arm they'd take regardless because he's too darn good for the pick. I also think they're on Drew Burress and Ryder Helfrick, maybe on Derek Curiel."
Booth is one of the speediest players in the class and could be an excellent pick here at seven. On the other hand, Law questions if the team would take UC Santa Barbara ace Jackson Flora if he were to fall.
Some other options include Drew Burress, Ryder Helfrick, and Derek Curiel, all college hitters who are sure to be first-round selections.
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