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Bob Haynie: Bundy Could Be A Weapon For The Orioles

When the Orioles drafted Dylan Bundy with the fourth overall pick in the 2011 MLB First-Year Player Draft, fans were convinced that he was going to be the franchise's next great pitcher. Unfortunately, injuries have prevented him from fulfilling his vast potential.

Now out of minor league options, the 23-year-old right-hander will begin the 2016 season on the major league roster. With a trip to Baltimore looming, Bundy could be much more than an arm only needed for mop-up duty.

Reports out of Florida say that Bundy is fully healthy for the first time in a couple of years. The return to health has been evident as the Oklahoma native has been impressive in his Grapefruit League outings.

Over his last 5.1 IP, Bundy has allowed one unearned run and only one hit. His fastball is alive again as he has hit 97 MPH on the radar gun.

Orioles manager Buck Showalter seems to like what he has seen. "I'll tell you, the last four or five times out he's looked like a major league pitcher," said the Birds' skipper to the media in Florida.

The Orioles have one of the best bullpens in baseball and the addition of Bundy gives Showalter another quality option. He also provides the club with another power arm.

I'm not saying Dylan Bundy will be the ace of the Baltimore staff. I do think he will be a contributor to a team that expects to contend this season.

Who knows, he may even get a start or two before 2016 ends.

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