1960 Baltimore Orioles Pre-Season Scouting Report Highlights
The 1960 American League Scouting Report for the Baltimore Orioles highlights several key aspects of the team under manager Paul Richards. Richards is recognized for his expertise with pitchers, and the report notes a strong line-up featuring young talents like Milt Pappas and Jerry Walker, along with seasoned knuckleball pitcher Hoyt Wilhelm and Arnie Portocarrero. Veteran outfielder Gene Woodling is noted for his solid performance last season, with a .300 batting average. Catcher Gus Triandos is highlighted as a potential standout, having hit 25 home runs in 1959. However, the report points out a lack of sustained offensive attack, particularly identifying problems at first base with Walt Dropo, who struggles with both hitting and fielding. The infield lacks batting power, and Woodling, at 37, may not reproduce his past performance. New acquisitions like outfielder Jackie Brandt from the Giants and first baseman Jim Gentile from the Dodgers’ farm system are expected to fill gaps, particularly providing the much-needed long ball threat. A crucial missing piece is the team's need for a reliable relief ace to replace Billy Loes, who was traded to the Giants. The report questions whether Wilhelm can effectively fill this role, depending on the control of his knuckleball pitch.