O's hope Sisco can get bat going at Triple-A

Wynns called up to replace 23-year-old catcher

July 14th, 2018

BALTIMORE -- The Orioles recalled catcher prior to Saturday's game against the Rangers as he takes the spot of rookie backstop .
Sisco, just 23, was optioned to Triple-A for the second time this season on Friday night. The Orioles are hoping he can get going in a less-pressure environment and take some time in Norfolk to get on a roll.
"I think just from a mental state of mind more than anything. We know he's a better hitter than he's shown here, and he's caught and called a game," manger Buck Showalter said. "He's grown. He's covered himself throwing people out. I think it's just trying to get his bat going a little bit.
"We think a lot of him in the future. Just like to see him have some extended success down there in a perfect world. I spent a lot of time talking to him last night. It's been tough, I think, on him mentally and emotionally. The first time a guy's struggled offensively and how they react to it."
Sisco has had some growing pains on both sides of the field, going 3-for-30 in his most recent stint with the club. One of the Orioles' top prospects, he made the club out of Spring Training but has struggled at the plate like many of his teammates. In 58 games, Sisco hit .195/.306/.289.

Wynns' stay could be extended if he performs well. The Orioles would ideally like to leave Sisco down in the Minors for a while to get comfortable. The 27-year-old Wynns has received raves for his defense and coachability.
"A lot of our guys when they first came up, the ability to defend is what allows you to keep them here for a while," Showalter said.