masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgLAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The Orioles selected third baseman Michael Almanzar during Thursday’s Rule 5 Draft.

So who is this guy?

First and foremost, he’s the Orioles’ latest Rule 5 acquisition. Almanzar was signed by the Boston Red Sox as a non-tender free agent back in 2007 and the 23-year-old has spent his entire career in the Sox’ farm system. Now he’s heading south to Baltimore, where he’ll join the club’s 40-man roster.

For reaction from the Orioles front office and notes on the…LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The Orioles selected third baseman Michael Almanzar during Thursday’s Rule 5 Draft.

So who is this guy?

First and foremost, he’s the Orioles’ latest Rule 5 acquisition. Almanzar was signed by the Boston Red Sox as a non-tender free agent back in 2007 and the 23-year-old has spent his entire career in the Sox’ farm system. Now he’s heading south to Baltimore, where he’ll join the club’s 40-man roster.

For reaction from the Orioles front office and notes on the bigger picture, Roch Kubatko and Steve Melewski have that covered. Here’s a look at some of Almanzar’s earlier career highlights.

* In six seasons, Almanzar has tallied 621 hits, good for a .250 batting average, with 49 home runs and 304 RBI. He’s coming off of his best campaign, however. In 2013, the righty hit .268 and had career highs in home runs (16), RBI (81), runs (67) and stolen bases (13).

* He spent 2013 with the Portland Sea Dogs, Boston’s Double-A affiliate, where he displayed his many, though raw, abilities as a big leaguer.

* The third baseman is no stranger to the spotlight, having been touted as a great talent since the age of 16. Check out this story from the Boston Globe on Almanzar’s potential as a star.

* Michael is the son of former big leaguer Carlos Almanzar, who pitched eight seasons with the Padres, Blue Jays, Yankees, Reds and Rangers from 1997-2005.