Baltmore Orioles' Brian Roberts' Recent Power Surge Bodes Well For Future

During the offseason, the O’s had several goals in mind.  One of which was to get their young stud outfielder Nick Markakis signed to a multi-year extension.  Another was to do the same for their veteran second baseman.Brian Roberts, the team’s switch-hitting leadoff hitter, was signed to a four-year, $44 million extension, giving Orioles’ fans assurance that Charm City’s favorite player was staying with the club.As the team moves through its rebuilding stage, many people asked the same question:  “Where does Roberts fit in?”Some thought of dealing him, and several offers have arisen over the past two seasons.  In 2008, it was rumored that Roberts had been dealt to the Chicago Cubs for pitchers Sean Marshall, Sean Gallagher, and shortstop Ronny Cedeno.  This lie was essentially shot down.In 2009, other Chicago trade talks swirled, centering now around the city’s American League affiliate, the White Sox.  There w...