From The Banner · Andy Kostka · · 1m 10s
Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s glasses make him stand out
Orioles prospect Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s glasses and steady approach help him emerge as a 2027 contender
In brief
Orioles prospect Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s glasses and steady approach help him emerge as a 2027 contender Encarnacion-Strand’s glasses and competitive mindset make him a top 2027 Orioles prospect despite injury setbacks Originally reported by The Banner.
Glasses on the field
Encarnacion-Strand wears glasses for the first time in his career after ditching contact lenses due to astigmatism.
“It’s so sick. I’ve never seen anything like that.”
Competitive approach
He prefers wrestling to baseball, focusing on one-on-one battles in every at-bat.
“I like to compete. I don’t really care to watch it, but I like to compete.”
Injury resilience
Hand fracture and back inflammation in 2024 and 2025 kept him from playing consistently.
“If you’re not playing every day, it’s hard to hit.”
2027 potential
His .268 batting average with 10 homers and .817 OPS positions him for a major role in 2027.
“I think it’s just being healthy and playing consistently.”
Team dynamics
Holliday notes Encarnacion-Strand’s steady demeanor helps him hit the ball all over the field.
“His demeanor and approach have always been very steady and very professional.”
2023 performance
He hit .270 with an .805 on-base-plus-slugging percentage in 63 games before injuries.
“I was healthy both of those years.”
Fishing hobby
He fishes in Arizona when not playing, a pastime he shared with college teammate Jackson Holliday.
“When you have the ability to hit the ball all over the field like him, it opens up a lot of room for error.”
2027 outlook
Finding starts for multiple prospects at third base remains a challenge for the Orioles.
“Jordan Westburg will return from elbow surgery, Coby Mayo is burgeoning into a force, and Blaze Alexander has been one of Baltimore’s best producers.”
The short version
Encarnacion-Strand’s glasses and competitive mindset make him a top 2027 Orioles prospect despite injury setbacks
