Orioles' Brian Roberts upbeat about future, fatherhood

After missing most of last three seasons, second baseman says he's feeling good

SARASOTA, FLA. —

If Brian Roberts has an extra bounce in his step, it’s for good reason. He’s back feeling good and ready to compete for the starting second base job, but there’s something going on his life that is even more important than playing baseball. Brian and his wife Diana are expecting their first child.

“It’s awesome,’’ Roberts said. “It’s been a huge blessing. Most people know of my passion and affinity for kids. Being able to add that to our life…to be able to have that is really great timing for us after all that has gone on. I think it has provided us with an extra boost.”

It’s been a long three years for Roberts, who has suffered a variety of injuries that have severely limited his playing time. He struggled with a back injury in the spring of 2010 and then suffered multiple concussions that cost him parts of the 2011 and 2012 seasons. His comeback last year was cut short by a hip injury and he underwent hernia surgery in December, but is in camp and has looked very comfortable in batting practice.

Manager Buck Showalter said on Friday that Roberts likely will be the starting second baseman when the season begins if he get through this elongated spring training. Roberts added that he’s happy about the extension of training camp (because of the World Baseball Classic) and hopes to play in as many spring games as possible.