Brian Roberts' Back and He'll be Suiting Up Tonight...

This week, as part of the Hot Stove website, the Oriole Post along with other prominent bloggers were asked this question: With less than two weeks remaining until Opening Day, what do you feel is the biggest question facing the Orioles for 2010?

Right now, aside from how the young pitching will fare, I think a lot of fans will be keeping their eye on second baseman Brian Roberts. He's a major cog in Baltimore's offense as it's leadoff hitter, and if Roberts is out for an extended period of time or is not ready to start the season, it will suffer.

Roberts has been recovering from a herniated disk and flew up last week to Baltimore for treatment. Since then, he's taking part in workouts, swinging the bat and has been in Florida preparing for some game action later this week. From all indications, he looks and sounds fine -- right now.

However, if Roberts' back issues flare up again or get worse, I'd imagine he would go the disabled list. If he does miss Opening Day or portions of the season, we might see Ty Wigginton, Robert Andino or perhaps someone like Justin Tuner play there for some time.

Sadly, Baltimore's lineup isn't the same with those options available.

Speaking of Brian, he's expected to play tonight in Sarasota against the Minnesota Twins.

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