Where do I even start with L.J. Hoes? He’s basically a dynamo, he’s made it to the big club (he spent some time with the Orioles in 2012 – not much, but he was there), and he spent this past autumn in the Arizona Fall League being incredible.

Now here’s the interesting bit:

• 2011: ranked 4th overall in the system
• 2012: ranked 5th overall in the system
• 2013: ranked 6th overall in the system

You can look at just those little numbers and think his star is falling. Oh, no, you’d be dead wrong, my friend. The Orioles have just added pieces named Dylan Bundy and Kevin Gausman, so they’ve simply bumped him down the list. In fact, I’d suggest that you keep a very close eye on him during Spring Training because he has a legitimate chance of capturing a roster spot this season. He might even find himself as the starting left fielder if Nolan Reimold doesn’t keep up. (I like Nolan as much as the next Orioles fan, but if Hoes outdoes him, then Hoes deserves the spot, plain and simple. He’ll have earned it.)

L.J. Hoes batted .300 in the International League in 2012. This was over 317 at-bats. Not bad for a 23-year-old. Here he is in Norfolk:

And for a little bonus treat, here’s an interview with him so you can get to know him a little better: