Brooks Robinson and the Baltimore Orioles

[BaltOrioles]

For years it has been customary for players to look for ways to improve their skills during the off-season. Many MLB players have played winter ball in places like Venezuela and the Carribean.

Today, top prospects are invited to participate in the Arizona Fall League.
From the late 1950's through the late 70's, several MLB teams fielded teams in the Florida Winter Instructional League. The league was designed to give young prospects chances to receive additional instruction under the watchful eye of each team. I can find references to the Orioles fielding teams in 1959, 1962-1968, 1970-1973 and 1976-1977. It looks like most of the games were played at Al Lang Field in St.Petersburg.

I have a few programs from 1964, 1967 & 1969


1964 Program with Manager George Bamberger

Players included Jim Palmer, Mark Belanger and Lou Piniella for the O's

1964 Florida Winter League.jpg SCAN8138.jpg



1967 Programs with Manager Vern Hoscheit

Players included Terry Crowley, Al Severinsen, Bill Dillman and Roger Freed

1967 Florida Winter League #1.JPG SCAN8139.jpg


1967 Florida Winter League #2.JPG SCAN8140.jpg



1969 Program with Manager Cal Ripken Sr

Players included "Marcus" Wayne Garland, Johnny Oates and Jesse Jefferson

1969 Florida Winter League.jpg SCAN8141.jpg