masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe stack of e-mails and tweets from today’s “Wall to Wall Baseball” show on MASN included one about Rule 5 pick Michael Almanzar and how his presence on the 25-man roster may impact Danny Valencia.

Almanzar was a curious selection. He’s a right-handed hitting corner infielder who isn’t regarded as a plus defender, though his arm is plenty strong. Valencia is a right-handed hitting corner infielder – he’s going to get more reps at first base in spring training – who actually plays a…The stack of e-mails and tweets from today’s “Wall to Wall Baseball” show on MASN included one about Rule 5 pick Michael Almanzar and how his presence on the 25-man roster may impact Danny Valencia.

Almanzar was a curious selection. He’s a right-handed hitting corner infielder who isn’t regarded as a plus defender, though his arm is plenty strong. Valencia is a right-handed hitting corner infielder – he’s going to get more reps at first base in spring training – who actually plays a decent third base and may be part of a platoon at designated hitter.

It’s going to be a neat trick to carry both players on the roster, especially if Ryan Flaherty is the starting second baseman. The Orioles will need a backup middle infielder for the bench, along with a catcher and extra outfielder.

Almanzar won’t impact Valencia, but Valencia could impact Almanzar, if that makes sense. Valencia isn’t going to lose his roster spot. The Orioles will be challenged to keep Almanzar, a career .250/.302/.373 hitter in six minor league seasons who doesn’t offer much versatility.

Left field isn’t an option, according to a few scouts who have seen him. Not enough mobility.

The Orioles will figure it out if Almanzar swings a hot bat in spring training, but for 162 games? Good luck.

This leftover from the Winter Meetings is starting to turn. You may want to toss it.

A Japanese reporter said Tsuyoshi Wada wants to remain in the U.S. and will attempt to sign with another major league team.

The Orioles declined to pick up Wada’s $5 million option for 2014 and won’t attempt to re-sign him. He never pitched for them after undergoing ligament-reconstructive surgery on his left elbow in 2012.

Severna Park native Gavin Floyd is close to a deal with the Braves, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Let him go, folks.

The Orioles can take another crack at Floyd once he re-enters the free-agent market next winter. He won’t be ready to pitch on opening day and isn’t likely to be in peak form this season. Better to try for the 2015 version.