Orioles Option Top Prospect Coby Mayo to Triple-A Norfolk

Mayo's disappointment highlights the challenges of managing Baltimore's deep roster as the team prioritizes development over immediate major league opportunities.

Coby Mayo, Baltimore's No. 2 prospect, was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk after struggling during spring training with a .190 batting average and .501 OPS.
Mayo expressed frustration with the decision, describing Triple-A as a 'lose-lose' situation given his prior dominance at that level with a .919 OPS over 151 games.
Samuel Basallo, the Orioles' top catching prospect, was reassigned to Minor League camp as expected, following an impressive spring showing with a .770 OPS in 16 games.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde emphasized the need for Mayo to refine his strike zone awareness and defensive skills before securing a consistent major league role.
The Orioles face criticism for not addressing their surplus of position-player prospects through trades, which could alleviate roster logjams and bolster their pitching staff.