Vance Honeycutt, the Baltimore Orioles’ 2024 first-round draft pick, just got the exciting news: he’s been promoted to the Double-A Chesapeake Baysox. This is his second full professional season, and it’s a huge step for the former UNC standout, even with some numbers that might make you scratch your head.
The Keys’ Numbers Look Odd, But the Power Is Real
You ready for this? Honeycutt was hitting a tough .182 for the High-A Frederick Keys over 63 games. Yeah, you read that right. But here’s the kicker: he still packed a serious punch with 10 home runs and drove in 31 runs. That raw power is exactly what Tar Heel Nation fell in love with back in the day. Plus, he’s sporting a career-best .644 OBP, his on-base plus slugging percentage. And get this, his contributions helped the Keys snag a First-Half, South Atlantic League North Division Title. It just goes to show, sometimes the batting average doesn’t tell the whole story when you’ve got pop like that.
A UNC Legend Moving Up the Ranks
Make no mistake, Honeycutt is a legitimate talent. He left UNC as one of their most decorated baseball players, highlighted by back-to-back ACC Defensive Player of the Year Awards in 2023 and 2024. He’s also the only player across all Power Four conferences to wrap up his college career with over 60 homers and 70 stolen bases, recording an incredible 65 home runs and 76 stolen bases. Remember 2024? He led North Carolina to their 12th College World Series appearance, even delivering a clutch walk-off hit in the opener against Virginia. This isn’t just some guy getting a shot; this is a player with a proven track record of clutch performances and elite athleticism.
What’s Next for the O’s Power Threat?
Honeycutt’s journey through the minors has been a steady climb. He played for the Aberdeen Ironbirds in 2025, stayed in High-A this year, and now he’s getting his first taste of AA ball. The big question now is whether he can maintain that impressive power and raise his average against tougher competition. The Orioles are clearly betting on his raw talent and proven ability to impact the game beyond just hitting for average. Will he continue to prove his worth at this next stop in the minors? You bet we’ll be watching.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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