Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports
Since the 2011 season, Baltimore Orioles catcher Matt Wieters‘ statistics are declining. There is no doubt that the Orioles’ catcher has to step up his game to be the catcher that he once was: a slugging machine. You can argue that Wieters’ play was once the glue that turned the Orioles into a contending with the top teams in the AL East. Now, Baltimore has a decision to make on his future with the club.
After a third straight year of his batting average declining, there is good reason why there is a chance for the Orioles to trade Wieters. He is beginning to show that he may not be the heart-of-the-order hitter that it was once expected of him. By trading Wieters, Baltimore could get someone younger back behind the plate and start in the future.
On the other side of the ball, Wieters could have a shot at winning the gold glove award at the catching position again. His range factor increased, making him one of the best catchers in the game behind the plate.
The problem with trading Wieters is that Baltimore invested so much into him. He was recalled at 23-years-old after being the fifth pick of the 2007 MLB Draft. They threw him into a team that was battling with the Toronto Blue Jays for last in the AL East for a long time. He was part of the rejuvenation in Baltimore and letting him go could damage the fan base.
However, is signing him to a long-term deal worth it when his knees are more than likely going to give out?
Baltimore is posed with a huge decision to make, and Wieters is not the only problem the Orioles have to face this offseason.
Ryan Gaydos is an MLB columnist for www.RantSports.com. He covers Baltimore Orioles rumors. Follow him on Twitter, “like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
