It wasn’t as if 35 year old Melvin Mora had a poor season, but it was down compared to his production between 2003-2005.  Mora hit .274 last season, scored 96 runs, hit 16 homers, drove in 83 runs and had a .733 OPS.  Those were not bad numbers but the Orioles expected a little more from him and they hope they’ll get it this season.  Mora made 17 errors and has about average range but the Orioles can live with that if Mora hits well.  Look for him to rebound this season with a fine year with the stick.

The Orioles signed soon to be 28 year old Terry Tiffee and they will give him a chance to make the team.  He hasn’t had much success at the major league level to date and he doesn’t have the power that one wants from the hot corner.  He hit .244 with 2 homers and 6 RBIs for the Twins last season in 45 at bats.  He’s also not much of a defender as he made 2 errors in only 51 innings at 3B for the Twins last year.  He’ll be lucky to make the Orioles.

Look for Freddie Bynum and Chris Gomez to also get some playing time at third base for the Orioles this season.