In this spring training piece about Garrett Atkins working with Terry Crowley on fixing his swing, we get some insight into how the Orioles front office makes decisions. After noting Atkins decline and lower road offense with the Rockies:

Before signing Atkins, the Orioles looked extensively at Atkins’ home/road splits and team officials also viewed plenty of videotape of his swing. Not wanting to put out the money or the years required to land one of the two top free-agent hitters on the market in Matt Holliday and Jason Bay, the Orioles decided that Atkins was their best option.

“We felt that he was the best fit for us. He’s not risk-free, but he had the greatest upside and gave us the most flexibility,” Orioles president of baseball operations Andy MacPhail said. “We’re in a position to take some fliers. You can’t be risk-averse and be in this business. You have to take some chances. This is as good of a chance as you can take. You have to reach sometimes and swing for the fences.”

He was so far below his career averages in 2009 that he should bounce back some in 2010. Camden Yards is a good park for hitting home runs, so that should help in reviving Garrett’s power.