Jim Callis on Dylan Bundy: “Why can’t he make the rotation out of spring training?”

Callis Bundy. That goes without saying.

I asked Baseball America’s Jim Callis what would be a reasonable progression for the 20-year-old Bundy this season?

“Based on what he did last year, it is certainly reasonable that he will be in the big leagues at some point this season,” Callis said. “For all the Orioles did last year, I don’t think they have five locks for the rotation. A year ago, I don’t think we were talking about Mike Trout having one of the best years a 20-year-old ever had.

“Anything is possible. On sheer talent, not talking about experience, he’s the best starter they have. Why can’t he make the rotation out of spring training? Now the Orioles are trying to win and he is clearly one of their best five starters.

“I think anything we could come up with would sound reasonable. If you told me Dylan would make the rotation in spring and win 15 games this year, I’m not saying he’s a lock for that but I wouldn’t say no way to that either. He is that talented.”

But doesn’t Bundy need more minor league experience and seasoning?

“Look at Bryce Harper. When he went to Double-A, he didn’t dominate like he did in the lower minors. Same is true with Dylan,” Callis said. “I think the natural course for Dylan would be to get him some Triple-A time. But again, last year I wouldn’t have thought the Orioles had any chance to contend and you wouldn’t want to waste any of his service time. But now he is one of the best starters. But we can’t say he doesn’t have anything left to do in the minors. Unless the Orioles have some injuries, though, it wouldn’t surprise me if he pitches some in Triple-A (to start the year).”