PT TOMORROW: AL East — BAL shortstop job bending toward Beckham?

Baltimore Orioles

Orioles manager Buck Showalter has reportedly pledged that when J.J. Hardy (SS, BAL) returns from the disabled list, the team’s starting shortstop job will once again be his.

Increasingly, however, the question is becoming, “Why?”

Since arriving in a deadline deal with division rival Tampa Bay, Tim Beckham (SS, BAL) has been scorching, assembling a 12-game hitting streak, during which he has gone 26-for-49 (.531) with 3 HR and nine other extra-base hits (.939 Slg).

Such offensive fireworks are a distant memory for the 34-year-old Hardy, who is on the disabled list with a fractured right wrist, the latest in a series of maladies that have assured his at-bat total will dip for a fifth straight season. Hardy will almost...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

With Dansby Swanson dealing with an oblique issue, Ramírez should see regular at bats.
Aug 21 2026 3:05am
Despite a stellar performance at Triple-A, Walker Jenkins just can't seem to get a call-up from the Twins. Plus, Sam Antonacci and Michael Massey facing lefties, Angel Martínez's playing time crunch in CLE, and Kerry Carpenter's extended absence in DET.
Aug 20 2026 3:05am
The A's have been ravaged by season-ending injuries, and the lingering shoulder injury for Jacob Wilson could lead to more shakeups on the roster.
Aug 19 2026 3:05am
Tyler O'Neill's recent production has led to an increase in at-bats, but significant concerns cloud his ability to stay in the lineup. Plus, a trio of injury rehabbers in BOS, OF in TB, and more.
Aug 18 2026 3:05am
This week, we welcome Zac Veen back to the majors, get a look at an exciting Giants' prospect, and check in on starting pitchers who look to be returning in August.
Aug 15 2026 3:06am

Tools