Time for more Orioles facts and opinions as we get closer to their spring training opener on Saturday at Ed Smith Stadium versus Boston. 

Fact: The Orioles acquired Craig Kimbrel in December with the intent that he serves as the club’s closer in the 2024 season.

Opinion: Despite the fact that Kimbrel is a 9-time All-Star and ranks eighth all-time with 417 saves, there is some concern about him around Birdland.

And while yes, he did struggle last year in the NL Championship Series, there are reasons to believe Kimbrel will do a good enough job for the Orioles. Experience for one – few have as much as a closer and he may blow some games, but it won’t be because he is not up to the moment.

But after a slow start last year, he pitched very, very well, going 7-5 with a 2.21 ERA from May 9 on. In that time, batters hit just .162 off him and his OPS against was .538. By the way that is still not up to Bautista dominance as last year he held batters to a .144 average and .460 OPS. But no one said they were getting another Bautista.

SARASOTA, Fla. – Anthony Santander was on his own for this morning’s media scrum.

The team interpreter was in a meeting. Santander can handle an interview solo but enjoys having his friend close, just in case he gets crossed up.

You’ve seen him at his locker postgame with his arm around Brandon Quinones’ shoulder. Always smiling. Rarely in need of any assistance.  

“I’ll do my best,” he said.

Santander had spent the last few months in Venezuela and joked that he was out of practice speaking English. But he came through again in the clutch.