masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgHe’s become the forgotten man on the Orioles. Now, some wonder if he will be a man that is soon leaving the Orioles.

It’s been a lost season for first baseman Garrett Atkins. He’s batting just .219-1-9 in 43 games and has started just four times in June and has not started any of the last eight games.

With roster moves looming, no one has to tell Atkins his position on the O’s is not secure.

“You can’t really control what happens outside the lines. So, I’ll just go out there…He’s become the forgotten man on the Orioles. Now, some wonder if he will be a man that is soon leaving the Orioles.

It’s been a lost season for first baseman Garrett Atkins. He’s batting just .219-1-9 in 43 games and has started just four times in June and has not started any of the last eight games.

With roster moves looming, no one has to tell Atkins his position on the O’s is not secure.

“You can’t really control what happens outside the lines. So, I’ll just go out there tonight and try to put together some good at bats and help the team win.”

Atkins is starting at first tonight with Ty Wigginton not starting due to back tightness.

I asked Atkins if he felt the Orioles gave him enough at bats and chances to play or if he had any issues with the club over playing time.

“No, I mean, I haven’t performed that well when I’ve been out there. Other guys have been playing pretty good. You can’t really complain about whether you should be playing instead of somebody when they’re playing better, so I’ve got no problems.

“I just struggled early on with finding a swing and it’s been a struggle to get at bats since then. Just been working in BP to try and get timing and rhythm down and be ready when the team calls upon you.”

If Atkins time with the O’s does end soon, would he welcome another chance and fresh start with another club?

“Everybody wants a chance to play. If you can’t get at bats here, obviously you’d like a chance to get at bats somewhere else if that’s a possibility.

“They gave me an opportunity to succeed (here) early on in the season. It didn’t goes as well as either one of us had planned.”