The 22-year-old outfielder, Xavier Avery, has been recalled from Triple-A Norfolk after three years in the minors. It seems as if the Orioles are ready to put his ability to get on-base to the test; having him scheduled to lead off today against the Rays. With Mark Reynolds on the DL, I think this is an excellent way to try to manufacture more runs by process of getting more men on-base

Xavier Avery seems to specialize in one thing in particular; getting on base. Through 33 games, Avery leads the Norfolk Tides in walks, hits, runs, and OBP. Also, he has put up a .285 TAv and a .316 BABIP. But not only is he showing an adept ability to get on-base, he has shown strokes of power this year as well. His .469 SLG% is second on the Tides this year. He is also sporting a well above-average ISO of .195. To quote Ron Popeil, "But wait, there's more!". Xavier Avery leads the Norfolk Tides in stolen-base with 8, and has not been caught-stealing yet on the year.

What's more outstanding than these numbers, is the fact that he's been able to put them up against stiffer competition than he's previously had to face. Last year, after struggling in Double-A, there were rumors that he would have to return to Bowie for another year. But the Orioles decision to promote him to Triple-A Norfolk seems to have been a good one, as Avery leads the Tides in just about every significant hitting statistic. Avery seems like exactly the type of overall hitter the Orioles need in the lead-off spot, and it will be fun to see how he fares against MLB talent!