Like father, like son: Younger Narron begins his O's career

The name Narron is already listed once on the Orioles' all-time roster, and now Connor Narron is looking to put the family name there a second time in the future. Jerry Narron managed in the O's farm system from 1989 to 1992 and in 1993 and '94, he was a coach on Johnny Oates' staff. In June, the O's drafted his son Connor in the fifth round out of a North Carolina high school. Connor bypassed a scholarship to North Carolina to sign with the O's, who sure made it worth his while with an over-slot bonus of $650,000. Narron struggled in a few at bats this year as he adjusted to life in pro ball. The switch-hitting infielder batted .164-0-4 in 19 games between the Gulf Coast Orioles and Aberdeen. "It was good. It's a learning experience going from high school to the minor leagues. I felt like I got my feet wet and I'll be ready for spring training next year," Narron said of his time in the minors late this summer. The 18-year-old is among 15 Orioles minor leaguers working out at Camden Yards as part of the club's instructional league camp. "Being able to work out at a big league park, it doesn't get much better than that. It's a blessing just being out here, trying to get better. Anytime you get to play on a big league field, nothing is better than that." Narron played shortstop and third base in those 19 minor league games, but said it looks like the O's will be moving him to third base. "That's where they tell me it's probably going to be. If I play right field, I don't care, as long as I'm playing." When your father played in the Majors and also was a big league manager, Connor says you have to take advantage of that experience. "It helps tremendously. He knows it's a tough sport and you fail more than succeed. He helps to tell me how to go about my business. Being able to be in a big league clubhouse, seeing how some people do the right thing and some do the wrong thing, helps me know how to prepare." Connor said his dad insisted he become a switch-hitter. "Since I could walk. He said 'you're going to do this and I said yes sir.' "Just the advantage of breaking pitches, they come into you instead of away. It's a big advantage and I feel very comfortable doing it." He also feels comfortable playing on a team with other top, young infield talent like Mychal Givens and Manny Machado. The three youngsters played together in Sarasota and Aberdeen. "Anytime you get three guys like us, it can create a lot of attention. Some say we are the infield of the future. If feels good to look around, see those guys and know they've got my back." Narron said his first few weeks in the O's farm system have been quite productive. "They do things top notch. They make sure you are doing everything right and they take care of you. We're going to get back on top pretty soon." Narron said he expects to play some winter ball in the Dominican Republic and that he would likely go there for a few weeks in November and/or December.