Mark Teixeira will end up as a Yankee, pending a physical. It is going to sting for a little while, but hopefully the holidays will numb the pain, until spring training. But hopefully by then we will be able to talk about a different player the Orioles are in pursuit of.
With a half an hour until Christmas Eve, I think I still have time to write to Santa telling him my wish list for the rest of the Orioles off-season:
1) Quality Pitcher
2) Quality Pitcher
3) Quality Pitcher
4) Quality Pitcher
5) Matt Wieters to be as good as suggested
6) Adam Jones improves consistently
7) Young minor league pitchers develope like suggested
8) Quality Pitcher
9) Quality Pitcher
10) Quality Pitcher
I think you get the idea of how to win in the MLB, pitching. Lets be realists here for one moment, would Teixeira have made the O's into a winning team in '09? No, no way, and it would have been a huge handicap to get any starting pitching.
We as fans are hurt, sure, trust me, but we need to look at this in a positive light because there hasn't been many bright times around here in the last 11 years. So here it is, we now can spend the $180 million it would have taken to sign Mark for decent-good pitchers to sit tight and eat innings until those young guns are ready. If thats not good enough, throw some of that money towards Markakis, Roberts, Wieters (if he deserves it, note: Evan Longoria) and PITCHING!!! You know it'll never end any other way but LETS GO O'S!!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Saturday, December 20, 2008
The Hot Stove is Keeping Me Warm
First, an apology, mostly to myself, because thats pretty much who reads this anyway, sorry for not having a post since August Jimmy. But the Hot Stove is up and running, and who else than our Orange and Black are "in the thick of it." Well, not according to most media outlets.
I for one am questioning this Mark T. focus. Would he be great for this team for the supposed 8-10 years he wants, of course, especially if our young pitching develops as we hope. Just think of the line up, everything falling into place of course:
Brian Roberts
Adam Jones
Nick Markakis
Mark Teixeira
Aubrey Huff
Matt Wieters
Caser Izturus
Melvin Mora
Luke Scott
Wow, thats a scary line up, well the middle of it at least. But I can't help to think of what we could get for the supposed $190-200 Million Tex wants. How about a few pitchers to fill the, you know, 4 rotation spots that don't seem to have anybody taking them.
Teixeira wants to have a deal done by Christmas, less than a week. And you can be sure that, seeing as it is between semesters, I will be posting feverishly on here. And who knows, my budget my get a $10 increase to get a real domain name. Do you hear that Santa? And as always, LETS GO O's!!
I for one am questioning this Mark T. focus. Would he be great for this team for the supposed 8-10 years he wants, of course, especially if our young pitching develops as we hope. Just think of the line up, everything falling into place of course:
Brian Roberts
Adam Jones
Nick Markakis
Mark Teixeira
Aubrey Huff
Matt Wieters
Caser Izturus
Melvin Mora
Luke Scott
Wow, thats a scary line up, well the middle of it at least. But I can't help to think of what we could get for the supposed $190-200 Million Tex wants. How about a few pitchers to fill the, you know, 4 rotation spots that don't seem to have anybody taking them.
Teixeira wants to have a deal done by Christmas, less than a week. And you can be sure that, seeing as it is between semesters, I will be posting feverishly on here. And who knows, my budget my get a $10 increase to get a real domain name. Do you hear that Santa? And as always, LETS GO O's!!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Managers of the Past
Like I've said before, I love the past as much as the present/future, and looking around the web a lot of talk about Earl Weaver and his rants with the Umpires has been coming up lately. I found a few that I am going to post, because the O's didn't play last night.
"During one particular tirade with an umpire, Weaver headed to the dugout screaming, 'I'm going to check the rule-book on that' to which the umpire replied, 'Here, use mine.' Weaver shot back, 'That's no good - I can't read Braille.'" - This has to be in the top 10, man did he sound so quick with his wit.
"The day AFTER he was ejected for smoking in the dugout runway, trying to make light of the situation, Earl came to the home plate lineup exchange the next game with a candy cigarette dangling from his lips. Needless to say, he was tossed out on the spot." - What, now we have no ump's with a sense of humor, AND instant replay?
"He tore up the rule book and flung the pages in the air." - Hey if they weren't going to play by the rules, why have them right?
Well that was fun, tonight The Orioles send ace Jeremy Guthrie to face Scott Kazmir. I have to call this a toss up because Guthrie has been cooling down a little and Kazmir has been heating up, if Guthrie and the bats show up its the O's. For now we'll call it even, for now, and even if that changes you can still hear me all the way in Philly saying, LETS GO O'S!!
"During one particular tirade with an umpire, Weaver headed to the dugout screaming, 'I'm going to check the rule-book on that' to which the umpire replied, 'Here, use mine.' Weaver shot back, 'That's no good - I can't read Braille.'" - This has to be in the top 10, man did he sound so quick with his wit.
"The day AFTER he was ejected for smoking in the dugout runway, trying to make light of the situation, Earl came to the home plate lineup exchange the next game with a candy cigarette dangling from his lips. Needless to say, he was tossed out on the spot." - What, now we have no ump's with a sense of humor, AND instant replay?
"He tore up the rule book and flung the pages in the air." - Hey if they weren't going to play by the rules, why have them right?
Well that was fun, tonight The Orioles send ace Jeremy Guthrie to face Scott Kazmir. I have to call this a toss up because Guthrie has been cooling down a little and Kazmir has been heating up, if Guthrie and the bats show up its the O's. For now we'll call it even, for now, and even if that changes you can still hear me all the way in Philly saying, LETS GO O'S!!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Buster Olney
Well after a whole summer of trying to get some questions answer at ESPN with their baseball chat rooms, I finally did, thanks to my home town and Buster Olney's last name. Check it out.
Jim (Olney, MD): I live in your last name, at least answer my question. Can you say anything good about my Orioles and their future?
Buster Olney: (1:29 PM ET ) Jim: I think Andy MacPhail's a smart guy and he made a great Bedard trade. But they certainly are in desperate need for some pitching foundation blocks. Tillman could be one; they probably could use three or four more.
Well, it was cool, and a highlight of my day. I also like the fact he could throw out one of out top pitching prospects. Like how I lured him into answering the question. Haha.
Tonight we face the White Sox after splitting the one and a half (make up game) last night. Seven games under .500 equals the low water mark of the season. Tonight is Brian Burres vs. Gavin Floyd huge advantage White Sox, but, yet again, LETS GO O'S!!
Jim (Olney, MD): I live in your last name, at least answer my question. Can you say anything good about my Orioles and their future?
Buster Olney: (1:29 PM ET ) Jim: I think Andy MacPhail's a smart guy and he made a great Bedard trade. But they certainly are in desperate need for some pitching foundation blocks. Tillman could be one; they probably could use three or four more.
Well, it was cool, and a highlight of my day. I also like the fact he could throw out one of out top pitching prospects. Like how I lured him into answering the question. Haha.
Tonight we face the White Sox after splitting the one and a half (make up game) last night. Seven games under .500 equals the low water mark of the season. Tonight is Brian Burres vs. Gavin Floyd huge advantage White Sox, but, yet again, LETS GO O'S!!
Monday, August 25, 2008
I am Trying to be Patient
I am, I really am, but I am young and it is hard. I am trying not to wish my life away, but I wish it was 2010, and we were in a playoff push, even that might be wishful thinking.
Swept by the Yankees this weekend, it was the first home sweep of the season. Now we have to watch the bottom three of the rotation, who give up the long ball way too much, face one of the best home run hitting teams in the majors. FUN!
First we need to make-up the suspended game from a while back, where we have no bench, and Alex Cintron will be the DH. After that, Waters takes the mound for the regularly scheduled game, good break here because the Orioles get to face a AAA pitcher from the White Sox, Game 1 could go either way.
It was announced yesterday that top prospect Matt Wieters, my boy, will not get called up this September, but another catcher, infielder, and a few pitchers will be. Next Year Matty, next year. Of course that, "Next Year" saying is the sign of a loosing franchise, but hey I call it like I see it.
Its getting harder and harder to say it, but LETS GO O'S!!
Swept by the Yankees this weekend, it was the first home sweep of the season. Now we have to watch the bottom three of the rotation, who give up the long ball way too much, face one of the best home run hitting teams in the majors. FUN!
First we need to make-up the suspended game from a while back, where we have no bench, and Alex Cintron will be the DH. After that, Waters takes the mound for the regularly scheduled game, good break here because the Orioles get to face a AAA pitcher from the White Sox, Game 1 could go either way.
It was announced yesterday that top prospect Matt Wieters, my boy, will not get called up this September, but another catcher, infielder, and a few pitchers will be. Next Year Matty, next year. Of course that, "Next Year" saying is the sign of a loosing franchise, but hey I call it like I see it.
Its getting harder and harder to say it, but LETS GO O'S!!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Millar
OK, so the Orioles didn't play yesterday, but I found a pretty good article by Kevin Millar, one of my favorite Orioles, I'll post it up here. By the way, Liz vs. Mussina tonight, get those bats and defense rolling, LETS GO O'S!!
Let's start with the positives: You have to really be excited about what this lineup's done offensively. Going into Spring Training, I don't think anybody knew where the power was going to come from. We were ranked something like 28th out of 30 teams for projected power numbers, and now we're fifth in the league in home runs. The balance of our lineup is tremendous, and it's been really exciting, but I think we've probably surprised everybody but ourselves.
It makes it fun when there's no big-name guy in the lineup who opposing teams have to pitch around. On any given night, all year long, someone's contributed. We have five guys who could potentially hit 20 home runs in this lineup, and you have three guys that could potentially have 100 RBIs in Aubrey Huff, Nick Markakis and Melvin Mora. The addition of Luke Scott has been key, and he's given us some on-base percentage and power. And Adam Jones went through an adjustment period before he got hurt, and I think hitting coach Terry Crowley deserves a lot of credit for that. Nobody knew if this kid would be able to hold his own or just play good defense, and now he's hitting .280 and has driven in a ton of big runs for us.
Changing gears, you've also got Jeremy Guthrie solidifying himself as a dominant pitcher in this league. Last year, he had 25 starts and everyone said, "OK, can you do it again?" Well, he's done it again, and he's definitely an ace. He's matched up well with every other team's ace, and early on in the year, we didn't score a whole lot of runs for him. He could definitely have 14 or 15 wins under his belt right now, but you've really got to love what Guthrie has done for this team. And he was basically a gift from God, like I like to say. He was a waiver claim, or whatever, and he only cost us $25,000.
It's got to be fun and exciting for the organization to see this team really start jelling together. We have the very definition of a team, and that's something Baltimore manager Dave Trembley has tried to stress from the get-go. I wasn't here in 2003, but I know things are definitely better from 2006. And that's a plus, because you know things are going in the right direction. It takes time, and you have to crawl before you learn to walk. It's baby steps. You don't just go out and buy a team in the offseason and then win the World Series. That's not the way it goes, and I saw it happen with the Florida Marlins.
This organization is doing it right, and I think everybody involved understands that we have to have the right players to go forward. Sometimes, you don't get a good mix and you get guys who will quit in the tough times. We don't have that. We've lost some tough games -- crushers -- and this team has bounced back the next day about as well as you can ask.
"This team right here really cares about each other. This group right here stays together and hangs out together."
Teams win championships and players don't. I believe in chemistry 100 percent, and you can't buy it. There are so many different egos and personalities that go into a 25-man roster, and you really can have a toxic mix. I've seen teams that were jealous of each other, and I've seen teammates that root against each other. I've seen a lot of different situations, but this team right here really cares about each other. This group right here stays together and hangs out together. That's a unique thing. We have a great mix of Latins and good ole' boys, young players and veterans. It's just been a great breath of fresh air.
I think everyone in this clubhouse has said this is the most fun they've ever had coming to the field, and it's neat to hear. The guys are here at 2 or 2:30 every day and they're not straggling in at 4 with their heads down and headphones on. We eat together, we play cards together, we rag on each other. It's a long day at the field, but we've been enjoying it.
And that doesn't just grow overnight. It takes effort from everybody. It takes effort to have a team dinner and to include everybody in everything. You've got a certain amount of guys who do that and keep things going, and that's what makes the team. And it all starts at the top. You have to believe in the theories your manager is stressing. Dave told us from the get-go, "Team, team, team, team -- nobody's bigger than the team." It started that way in February, and we've believed it. You're a reflection of your manager, and we've never quit and we've always played as hard as we can. That doesn't mean you're going to win every game. We're going to get beat and we're going to get crushed, but you can play the game right.
People always ask me, "Are you signed through next year?" No, I'm not. Do I want to come back to be an Oriole? Yes, I do. I enjoy it here, and I enjoy helping to change this team around in a positive way. I enjoy the dogfight that comes with playing in the American League East and playing against the Yankees, the Red Sox and now even the Rays. I really believe that basically with the addition of some starting pitching, this team could begin to compete for a playoff spot.
I don't know if I'll be back, but I'd hope to be. I don't know what the organization's plans are, but I've expressed to Andy MacPhail, the team's president of baseball operations, that I love it here and I'd love to come back. I know Trembley knows that I love it here, and the one thing with me is you know what you're going to get. Knock on wood, it's pretty much a healthy body. You're going to get what you've gotten the last three years, and it's not going to cost a whole lot of money. It certainly won't be a contract issue. It's just a matter of what direction they want to go. My gut says I'll be an Oriole. As a free agent, you have a choice to go where you want to an extent. And I want to be here. I hope that weighs into their plans.
Fantasy football season's about to start, and we've got some guys who think they know it all. We've got Steve Young, Sean Salisbury and Tom Jackson on this team. Everybody knows everything about everything, but all I know is that I'm probably by far the most knowledgeable guy on this team about fantasy football. I live and die for the NFL, but don't know anything about college. I've been in former teammate John Burkett's league for several seasons, and he has over 100 teams, but I've been a top 10 finisher. I just want to let the guys know in advance what they're dealing with. They're cute little fellas like that kid Edwar Ramirez from the Yankees. They try so hard, and I want to thank them for their time and their donation.
Let's start with the positives: You have to really be excited about what this lineup's done offensively. Going into Spring Training, I don't think anybody knew where the power was going to come from. We were ranked something like 28th out of 30 teams for projected power numbers, and now we're fifth in the league in home runs. The balance of our lineup is tremendous, and it's been really exciting, but I think we've probably surprised everybody but ourselves.
It makes it fun when there's no big-name guy in the lineup who opposing teams have to pitch around. On any given night, all year long, someone's contributed. We have five guys who could potentially hit 20 home runs in this lineup, and you have three guys that could potentially have 100 RBIs in Aubrey Huff, Nick Markakis and Melvin Mora. The addition of Luke Scott has been key, and he's given us some on-base percentage and power. And Adam Jones went through an adjustment period before he got hurt, and I think hitting coach Terry Crowley deserves a lot of credit for that. Nobody knew if this kid would be able to hold his own or just play good defense, and now he's hitting .280 and has driven in a ton of big runs for us.
Changing gears, you've also got Jeremy Guthrie solidifying himself as a dominant pitcher in this league. Last year, he had 25 starts and everyone said, "OK, can you do it again?" Well, he's done it again, and he's definitely an ace. He's matched up well with every other team's ace, and early on in the year, we didn't score a whole lot of runs for him. He could definitely have 14 or 15 wins under his belt right now, but you've really got to love what Guthrie has done for this team. And he was basically a gift from God, like I like to say. He was a waiver claim, or whatever, and he only cost us $25,000.
It's got to be fun and exciting for the organization to see this team really start jelling together. We have the very definition of a team, and that's something Baltimore manager Dave Trembley has tried to stress from the get-go. I wasn't here in 2003, but I know things are definitely better from 2006. And that's a plus, because you know things are going in the right direction. It takes time, and you have to crawl before you learn to walk. It's baby steps. You don't just go out and buy a team in the offseason and then win the World Series. That's not the way it goes, and I saw it happen with the Florida Marlins.
This organization is doing it right, and I think everybody involved understands that we have to have the right players to go forward. Sometimes, you don't get a good mix and you get guys who will quit in the tough times. We don't have that. We've lost some tough games -- crushers -- and this team has bounced back the next day about as well as you can ask.
"This team right here really cares about each other. This group right here stays together and hangs out together."
Teams win championships and players don't. I believe in chemistry 100 percent, and you can't buy it. There are so many different egos and personalities that go into a 25-man roster, and you really can have a toxic mix. I've seen teams that were jealous of each other, and I've seen teammates that root against each other. I've seen a lot of different situations, but this team right here really cares about each other. This group right here stays together and hangs out together. That's a unique thing. We have a great mix of Latins and good ole' boys, young players and veterans. It's just been a great breath of fresh air.
I think everyone in this clubhouse has said this is the most fun they've ever had coming to the field, and it's neat to hear. The guys are here at 2 or 2:30 every day and they're not straggling in at 4 with their heads down and headphones on. We eat together, we play cards together, we rag on each other. It's a long day at the field, but we've been enjoying it.
And that doesn't just grow overnight. It takes effort from everybody. It takes effort to have a team dinner and to include everybody in everything. You've got a certain amount of guys who do that and keep things going, and that's what makes the team. And it all starts at the top. You have to believe in the theories your manager is stressing. Dave told us from the get-go, "Team, team, team, team -- nobody's bigger than the team." It started that way in February, and we've believed it. You're a reflection of your manager, and we've never quit and we've always played as hard as we can. That doesn't mean you're going to win every game. We're going to get beat and we're going to get crushed, but you can play the game right.
People always ask me, "Are you signed through next year?" No, I'm not. Do I want to come back to be an Oriole? Yes, I do. I enjoy it here, and I enjoy helping to change this team around in a positive way. I enjoy the dogfight that comes with playing in the American League East and playing against the Yankees, the Red Sox and now even the Rays. I really believe that basically with the addition of some starting pitching, this team could begin to compete for a playoff spot.
I don't know if I'll be back, but I'd hope to be. I don't know what the organization's plans are, but I've expressed to Andy MacPhail, the team's president of baseball operations, that I love it here and I'd love to come back. I know Trembley knows that I love it here, and the one thing with me is you know what you're going to get. Knock on wood, it's pretty much a healthy body. You're going to get what you've gotten the last three years, and it's not going to cost a whole lot of money. It certainly won't be a contract issue. It's just a matter of what direction they want to go. My gut says I'll be an Oriole. As a free agent, you have a choice to go where you want to an extent. And I want to be here. I hope that weighs into their plans.
Fantasy football season's about to start, and we've got some guys who think they know it all. We've got Steve Young, Sean Salisbury and Tom Jackson on this team. Everybody knows everything about everything, but all I know is that I'm probably by far the most knowledgeable guy on this team about fantasy football. I live and die for the NFL, but don't know anything about college. I've been in former teammate John Burkett's league for several seasons, and he has over 100 teams, but I've been a top 10 finisher. I just want to let the guys know in advance what they're dealing with. They're cute little fellas like that kid Edwar Ramirez from the Yankees. They try so hard, and I want to thank them for their time and their donation.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Keep Rollin' Rollin' Rollin'
There you go, avoided the sweep, now the Orioles are only four games under .500 going into a weekend series with the struggling Yankees, nobody say the "S" word or it might not happen. Chris Waters pitched 5 innings of below average ball, but got the win with 11 runs of support. The offense has not cooled off quite yet, and hopefully the day off gives them some rest and they get right back at it on Friday.
Rodhames Liz is the expected started for Friday nights game against the Yanks, he has pitched very well in AAA Norfolk, pitching deep into games and walking a lot fewer than he did with the O's.
Not much going on today with the day off, but I like to talk about the minor leaguers so lets have at it.
Three pitchers at AA Bowie have been the reason they are in first place looking to make the playoffs for the first time in 11 years, Brad Bergesen, Jason Berken, and Chris Tillman. Together they are 35-11 with a 3.29 ERA, impressive, Bergesen has the most wins with 15 followed by Berken, 11, and Tillman, 9. The only thing is, Chris Tillman is 20 YEARS OLD!!! One year younger than me, he came to Baltimore in the Erik Bedard trade, so now, lets look at what we got for one player. An All-Star closer, a future All-Star center fielder, Kam Mickolo, pitching out of the bull pen last night for no earned runs, A 20-year old stud in AA ball who looks to be a rising ace. Pretty good MacPhail, pretty good.
Rodhames Liz is the expected started for Friday nights game against the Yanks, he has pitched very well in AAA Norfolk, pitching deep into games and walking a lot fewer than he did with the O's.
Not much going on today with the day off, but I like to talk about the minor leaguers so lets have at it.
Three pitchers at AA Bowie have been the reason they are in first place looking to make the playoffs for the first time in 11 years, Brad Bergesen, Jason Berken, and Chris Tillman. Together they are 35-11 with a 3.29 ERA, impressive, Bergesen has the most wins with 15 followed by Berken, 11, and Tillman, 9. The only thing is, Chris Tillman is 20 YEARS OLD!!! One year younger than me, he came to Baltimore in the Erik Bedard trade, so now, lets look at what we got for one player. An All-Star closer, a future All-Star center fielder, Kam Mickolo, pitching out of the bull pen last night for no earned runs, A 20-year old stud in AA ball who looks to be a rising ace. Pretty good MacPhail, pretty good.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Slipping, but Not Sliding
That is two losses in a row, dropping the Orioles 5 games under the .500 mark, remember their low water mark of the season was 7 games under .500, so its not the worst we've seen. And, if looking towards the past can help, last year on today's date the Tampa Bay 'Devil' Rays were 47-77, 30 games below .500, a year later they have the best record in baseball. Just giving us O's fans something to wish for.
Daniel Cabrera looked bad, hitting looked anything BUT timely, and the Orioles gave away $50,000, all in one night, mission not quite accomplished.
Here is something I think we can look forward to...
The Orioles have a 3 man rotation right now, Guthrie, Cabrera, and Waters, but they need at least a fourth starter, and now we know it will not be Olson or Sarfate. Who will it be? Here is my two cents. Two pitchers will be working Friday on normal rest, one from AA and one from AAA, Brad Bergesen, and Radhames Liz respectively. Liz has been pretty dominant in AAA since his demotion, only problem is that his walks are still on the wrong side of where they need to be. Bergesens only problem is that he is pitching in AA. If I had to choose, I would pick Bergesen, but of course I don't have all the facts and scouting reports like Mr. MacPhail, so we'll let him make the choice.
Tonight, to avoid a three game sweep by the Red Sox, the Orioles will send Chris Waters to the mound to face Clay Buchholtz. Waters has gone through every start a pitcher could go through, a great one, a average one, and a bad one. Here's to tonight being an above average one, a quality start, whatever you want to call it, just give me a win, and, as always, LETS GO O'S!!
Daniel Cabrera looked bad, hitting looked anything BUT timely, and the Orioles gave away $50,000, all in one night, mission not quite accomplished.
Here is something I think we can look forward to...
The Orioles have a 3 man rotation right now, Guthrie, Cabrera, and Waters, but they need at least a fourth starter, and now we know it will not be Olson or Sarfate. Who will it be? Here is my two cents. Two pitchers will be working Friday on normal rest, one from AA and one from AAA, Brad Bergesen, and Radhames Liz respectively. Liz has been pretty dominant in AAA since his demotion, only problem is that his walks are still on the wrong side of where they need to be. Bergesens only problem is that he is pitching in AA. If I had to choose, I would pick Bergesen, but of course I don't have all the facts and scouting reports like Mr. MacPhail, so we'll let him make the choice.
Tonight, to avoid a three game sweep by the Red Sox, the Orioles will send Chris Waters to the mound to face Clay Buchholtz. Waters has gone through every start a pitcher could go through, a great one, a average one, and a bad one. Here's to tonight being an above average one, a quality start, whatever you want to call it, just give me a win, and, as always, LETS GO O'S!!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Guthrie was So So
Jeremy Guthrie had "Probably the biggest struggle I've had all season with my stuff," in last nights game. And yet he still managed to go 7 innings and only give up 2 runs, both homers, although he did walk 5. It goes to show how much better he is than the rest of the staff, if 7 innings of 2 run ball is the biggest struggle with your stuff, well, we all know how good he is when he is on.
The familiar, and still disappointing, scene played out again for Guthrie, who got 1 run in support of his outing. The red hot offense cooled a bit last night, but then again, the pitcher they faced did throw a no hitter earlier in the year.
The attendance last night was 40,429, leaving the Orioles 2,861 fans shy of reaching the 50 million mark at Camden Yards. Anybody want to make a road trip tonight, your odds of winning are probably much greater here than winning the lottery, and the perks, in my opinion, are better. You get $50,000 and a pair of season tickets for 5 years, and according the Orioles official web site, "V.I.P. surprises and more!" OHHH AHHH. Do you think they will let you play owner for the day? Peter Angelos would never let that happen.
Welp, tonight we have Daniel Cabrera vs. Dice-K. Please, please bring good Danny to the yard, how would it look if we lost the game where I, I mean the 50 millionth fan, shows up? Either way, with $50,000 in my pocket, I'll still say, LETS GO O'S!!
The familiar, and still disappointing, scene played out again for Guthrie, who got 1 run in support of his outing. The red hot offense cooled a bit last night, but then again, the pitcher they faced did throw a no hitter earlier in the year.
The attendance last night was 40,429, leaving the Orioles 2,861 fans shy of reaching the 50 million mark at Camden Yards. Anybody want to make a road trip tonight, your odds of winning are probably much greater here than winning the lottery, and the perks, in my opinion, are better. You get $50,000 and a pair of season tickets for 5 years, and according the Orioles official web site, "V.I.P. surprises and more!" OHHH AHHH. Do you think they will let you play owner for the day? Peter Angelos would never let that happen.
Welp, tonight we have Daniel Cabrera vs. Dice-K. Please, please bring good Danny to the yard, how would it look if we lost the game where I, I mean the 50 millionth fan, shows up? Either way, with $50,000 in my pocket, I'll still say, LETS GO O'S!!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Putting the O in Offense
A semi-successful road trip, coming home for nine games after a 4-3 road trip isn't all that bad, especially when there is the 50 millionth fan coming into Camden Yards in the next three days.
How about that Oriole offense, Melvin Mora has been on a tear and he had 6RBI's yesterday, ridiculous. And the team has just been flat out scoring runs in their last 4 games, there average runs per game is 10.75, how are you supposed to loose games like that? Pitching, wasn't expecting such an easy answer hu? Well, when 3 or 4 out of 5 pitchers have outings, more often than not, like Garet Olson's yesterday, 1 2/3 with 5 ER, it makes it tough. Thankfully the Orioles have Jeremy Guthrie on the mound tonight, trying for his career best 5 wins in a row.
Guthrie has been lights out in his last 11 outings, going 7-1 with a 2.51 ERA, and even more dominant as the season wears on, going 4-0 with a 1.23 ERA in his last four starts. He is matched up against youngster Jon Lester, whose last start was good enough for a win going 7 1/3 and giving up 3 earned runs. Hopefully the O's offense will challenge him and Guthrie will swamp the Sox offense. Yet again, LET'S GO O'S!!
How about that Oriole offense, Melvin Mora has been on a tear and he had 6RBI's yesterday, ridiculous. And the team has just been flat out scoring runs in their last 4 games, there average runs per game is 10.75, how are you supposed to loose games like that? Pitching, wasn't expecting such an easy answer hu? Well, when 3 or 4 out of 5 pitchers have outings, more often than not, like Garet Olson's yesterday, 1 2/3 with 5 ER, it makes it tough. Thankfully the Orioles have Jeremy Guthrie on the mound tonight, trying for his career best 5 wins in a row.
Guthrie has been lights out in his last 11 outings, going 7-1 with a 2.51 ERA, and even more dominant as the season wears on, going 4-0 with a 1.23 ERA in his last four starts. He is matched up against youngster Jon Lester, whose last start was good enough for a win going 7 1/3 and giving up 3 earned runs. Hopefully the O's offense will challenge him and Guthrie will swamp the Sox offense. Yet again, LET'S GO O'S!!
Friday, August 15, 2008
So So, and the Draft
Daniel Cabrera pitched a so so game last night pitching 5 2/3 giving up 3 ER and 8 hits, not bad, not good enough to get the win but the O's won so I can't complain. The offense is on fire right now, it has scored 55 runs in the last 7 games, that's almost an 8 run per game average, any team should win with that, but the Orioles are only 4-3 in that span. Says some thing about the, wait, yep, I'm going to say it again, starting pitching.
Lou Montanez, "Sweet Lou," had a good game last night and is hitting .474 since being with the Orioles, and had 2 RBI's last night. Now we all realize that nobody can hit that well for a whole year, but it should give some confidence for Lou. It gives me some in him anyway.
The countdown is on for the Orioles to sign their first round draft pick Brain Matusz, the left handed pitcher from San Diego State. Reports say he is looking for a Major league deal worth about $5 million. Listen, if I am coming out of college and get offered $2 million, even $1 million to play a GAME, I'm taking it. I don't care how good he thinks he is a major league contract dooms a player out of the draft, case and point, Adam Lowen. Brian, be a man, take the huge privilege you have to play major league baseball and run with it. Good luck O's hopefully this guy is not a Prima Donna.
Tonight is Chris Waters vs. Nate Robertson. Waters is making his 3 big league start, I personally am very excited to see him again. And Nate Robertson, is 4-1 with a 4+ ERA against the "Dirty Birds" so lets try and reverse the trend, and LETS GO O'S!!
Lou Montanez, "Sweet Lou," had a good game last night and is hitting .474 since being with the Orioles, and had 2 RBI's last night. Now we all realize that nobody can hit that well for a whole year, but it should give some confidence for Lou. It gives me some in him anyway.
The countdown is on for the Orioles to sign their first round draft pick Brain Matusz, the left handed pitcher from San Diego State. Reports say he is looking for a Major league deal worth about $5 million. Listen, if I am coming out of college and get offered $2 million, even $1 million to play a GAME, I'm taking it. I don't care how good he thinks he is a major league contract dooms a player out of the draft, case and point, Adam Lowen. Brian, be a man, take the huge privilege you have to play major league baseball and run with it. Good luck O's hopefully this guy is not a Prima Donna.
Tonight is Chris Waters vs. Nate Robertson. Waters is making his 3 big league start, I personally am very excited to see him again. And Nate Robertson, is 4-1 with a 4+ ERA against the "Dirty Birds" so lets try and reverse the trend, and LETS GO O'S!!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Guthrie, Markakis
Jeremy Guthrie and Nick Markakis are my two favorite Orioles, since Adam Jones broke his foot, actually since they put on the jersey. Last night they tried to show you why they should be yours too, despite having some lower back stiffness in the 6th Guthrie went out and pitched a scoreless 7th, getting the win and lowering his ERA to 3.18 6th best in the AL. When is he going to get the due he deserves? Does he have another 5 wins in him for 15? He has pitched so well in his last 4 starts, just check his numbers, 4 wins and a 1.23 ERA, crazy good.
And Nick Markakis, the player who drove in 112 runs last year, and only had 39 at the All-Star break, now has 75 with 17 home runs and a .307 average, is on pace to have another 100 RBI season and hit above his .300 mark from last year, with more home runs, and more outfield assists, which, by the way he is leading all of baseball with 12. Are these guys good or what? Now if we can just get some starting pitching behind Guthrie, we could be there.
Tonight at 7:05 it is Daniel Cabrera vs. Zack Jackson, a player acquired by the Indians in the CC Sabathia trade. Cabrera looks to build on his first scoreless outing of the year last time out, and the Orioles offense looks to stay red hot, a series split is all we can ask for now, but still LETS GO O'S!!
And Nick Markakis, the player who drove in 112 runs last year, and only had 39 at the All-Star break, now has 75 with 17 home runs and a .307 average, is on pace to have another 100 RBI season and hit above his .300 mark from last year, with more home runs, and more outfield assists, which, by the way he is leading all of baseball with 12. Are these guys good or what? Now if we can just get some starting pitching behind Guthrie, we could be there.
Tonight at 7:05 it is Daniel Cabrera vs. Zack Jackson, a player acquired by the Indians in the CC Sabathia trade. Cabrera looks to build on his first scoreless outing of the year last time out, and the Orioles offense looks to stay red hot, a series split is all we can ask for now, but still LETS GO O'S!!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
USA Mens Basketball
We have a guest writer, and he has more to this story a little later in the day. Enjoy!
Michael William Krzyzewski (Coach K) is a great coach, just check the resume: 2001 Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, 10 time ACC champion as a coach, 5 time ACC Coach of the Year, 3 time Naismith Coach of the year, 3 time national championship as a Coach, and a measly .750winning percentage, o yea and don't forget the US Olympic Men's Basketball Coach. Coach K is without a doubt one of the greatest coaches of all time, that goes without question.
But what does come into question is, do I, Ian James Hopkins, a rising Junior at Saint Joseph's University no more about basketball than Coach K. Before your so quick to judge let me run you down my resume:Washington Township Recreation League All- Star in 2003, Recreation League Champion in 1998, Beat Writer for Saint Joseph's Hawks Men's Basketball Team, all around good college student, and you can't forget about the 1-11 record that I sport after two years of Intramural Basketball at my college, in the B- league no less.
I know what your thinking, and no I am not some drunken idiot college kid, I am currently using much to good grammar to be drunk. But lets face it, it would be seemingly easy to choose who knows more about basketball, more specifically, who would be a better person to pick the United States Men's Basketball team. Well if you ask me, it isn't so easy, I'd say the choice between me and Coach K is harder than trying to win 8 gold medals in one Olympics (Phelps love). Just humor me, instead of going by the resume, lets go by the fact,the facts being who coach K has chosen to represent this wonderful country on the hardwood, in comparison to who I would choose, and for purposes of not getting to ridiculous I will keep Kobe on the roster,won't put in my boy and greatest baller ever Adam Morrison, and I will attempt to keep college players of the roster but my word is weaker than Tayshaun Prince on the bench.I'd like to first establish who I agree with Coach K on:
Dawayne Wade; I think a lot of people think D-Wade was over-rated when the Heat won the NBA ship, partially including me, but this Olympics he is def out to prove his haters wrong.
Kobe Bryant; In all honesty I do not like Kobe, I'd go as far as to say I hate him, Kobe Bryant the basketball player is amazing, he does some of the sickest things ever done on a basketball court and that is why he is on this roster. But I don't agree with Kobe the person.
Chris Bosh; Georgia Tech attendee, this Demon Decon garners a lot of love from yours truly, all 6'10" 230 pounds of him. A solid post presence, underrated shooter, and fine tuned rebounder. He def deserved to get the USA nod.
Lebron James: 'Nuff said
Chris Paul: CP3 needs to just stop it, he teases the defense while tantalizing the crowd. The boy can play and there is no one on this planet that can argue that.
Michael William Krzyzewski (Coach K) is a great coach, just check the resume: 2001 Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, 10 time ACC champion as a coach, 5 time ACC Coach of the Year, 3 time Naismith Coach of the year, 3 time national championship as a Coach, and a measly .750winning percentage, o yea and don't forget the US Olympic Men's Basketball Coach. Coach K is without a doubt one of the greatest coaches of all time, that goes without question.
But what does come into question is, do I, Ian James Hopkins, a rising Junior at Saint Joseph's University no more about basketball than Coach K. Before your so quick to judge let me run you down my resume:Washington Township Recreation League All- Star in 2003, Recreation League Champion in 1998, Beat Writer for Saint Joseph's Hawks Men's Basketball Team, all around good college student, and you can't forget about the 1-11 record that I sport after two years of Intramural Basketball at my college, in the B- league no less.
I know what your thinking, and no I am not some drunken idiot college kid, I am currently using much to good grammar to be drunk. But lets face it, it would be seemingly easy to choose who knows more about basketball, more specifically, who would be a better person to pick the United States Men's Basketball team. Well if you ask me, it isn't so easy, I'd say the choice between me and Coach K is harder than trying to win 8 gold medals in one Olympics (Phelps love). Just humor me, instead of going by the resume, lets go by the fact,the facts being who coach K has chosen to represent this wonderful country on the hardwood, in comparison to who I would choose, and for purposes of not getting to ridiculous I will keep Kobe on the roster,won't put in my boy and greatest baller ever Adam Morrison, and I will attempt to keep college players of the roster but my word is weaker than Tayshaun Prince on the bench.I'd like to first establish who I agree with Coach K on:
Dawayne Wade; I think a lot of people think D-Wade was over-rated when the Heat won the NBA ship, partially including me, but this Olympics he is def out to prove his haters wrong.
Kobe Bryant; In all honesty I do not like Kobe, I'd go as far as to say I hate him, Kobe Bryant the basketball player is amazing, he does some of the sickest things ever done on a basketball court and that is why he is on this roster. But I don't agree with Kobe the person.
Chris Bosh; Georgia Tech attendee, this Demon Decon garners a lot of love from yours truly, all 6'10" 230 pounds of him. A solid post presence, underrated shooter, and fine tuned rebounder. He def deserved to get the USA nod.
Lebron James: 'Nuff said
Chris Paul: CP3 needs to just stop it, he teases the defense while tantalizing the crowd. The boy can play and there is no one on this planet that can argue that.
Ugly, but Thanks
Man last night was ugly, I don't want to say it AGAIN, but the Orioles need starting pitching. Here is yet another reason why. When bull pen pitchers get moved into the starting rotation, you loose a quality arm out of the bull pen, so when the game is on the line your quality bull pen arm to choose from is one less, thereby over using your quality arms, and loosing the game.
Its only been a three game skid, but still, thank you Indians for giving us Jeremy Guthrie, tonight's starter. He has single handily stopped any Orioles loosing streak from going past 5, and tonight he will look to go deep into the game as to stop this current trend of coming back from being down and then loosing the game in the late innings.
Guthrie has easily been the Orioles MVP this season, in my eyes at least. He has also been one of MLB's hottest pitcher as of late, winning his last 3 of 4 starts while posting a sub 2 ERA, and including his first career complete game.
Thank you Mr. Guthrie and good luck tonight vs. the Tribe. Two things are certain tonight, Guthrie is pitching, and LETS GO O'S!!
Its only been a three game skid, but still, thank you Indians for giving us Jeremy Guthrie, tonight's starter. He has single handily stopped any Orioles loosing streak from going past 5, and tonight he will look to go deep into the game as to stop this current trend of coming back from being down and then loosing the game in the late innings.
Guthrie has easily been the Orioles MVP this season, in my eyes at least. He has also been one of MLB's hottest pitcher as of late, winning his last 3 of 4 starts while posting a sub 2 ERA, and including his first career complete game.
Thank you Mr. Guthrie and good luck tonight vs. the Tribe. Two things are certain tonight, Guthrie is pitching, and LETS GO O'S!!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Broken Rec-Rec-Rec-Rec
We need pitching-skip-scratch-we need pitching-skip-scratch-we need pitching. How many times does the offense need to comeback to win a game? This problem is starting to get so ridiculous in my mind, but I don't have a solution. There has to be someone other than Jeremy Guthrie who can pitch a decent game regularly right?
Anyways, lets highlight the positives, Aubrey Huff extended his career/this years club's best hitting streak to 19 games last night with a home run. The offense looks red hot, but when we only need to bull pen to hold the lead, they can't and when we need them to stop the bleeding, they can't.
Dear Santa,
For Christmas this year I would like 4 pitchers that can pitch like Guthrie, oh and may I also have a few bull pen pitchers that can lock down a game when necessary? And if you have enough room in that bag of yours, grab a short stop, and some big guy who grew up in MD and plays for the best team in baseball.
One Love,
Jim
Tonight is Olson vs. Sowers, God only knows how this one will turn out. But, He also knows I'll be watching, hopefully we can scrap together a win. LETS GO O'S!!!
Anyways, lets highlight the positives, Aubrey Huff extended his career/this years club's best hitting streak to 19 games last night with a home run. The offense looks red hot, but when we only need to bull pen to hold the lead, they can't and when we need them to stop the bleeding, they can't.
Dear Santa,
For Christmas this year I would like 4 pitchers that can pitch like Guthrie, oh and may I also have a few bull pen pitchers that can lock down a game when necessary? And if you have enough room in that bag of yours, grab a short stop, and some big guy who grew up in MD and plays for the best team in baseball.
One Love,
Jim
Tonight is Olson vs. Sowers, God only knows how this one will turn out. But, He also knows I'll be watching, hopefully we can scrap together a win. LETS GO O'S!!!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Sorry and We're Back on the Road
Hello all, and sorry for the no post for the last few days, good thing I wasn't married to the blog, "in sickness and in health." I was under the weather, but I am back and still feeling the effects. Anyways, Chris Waters proved he was human yesterday giving up 5 earned runs in only 4 innings, but left with the game still in hand, the bullpen however gave it up. But how much can you really argue after keeping the potent Texas offense to only 1 run in the first two games. Taking yet another series.
Back on the road tonight against the downtrodden Cleveland Indians, anybody else feeling a sweep. OK maybe that might be a little far fetched because the O's seem to have trouble in the third game of a series, but a guy can wish right? And four games in a row is going to be tough.
Dennis Sarfate, tonight's starting pitcher, got a text message from his wife after his last start saying, "Your trying to hard." Notice anything? Yea me TOO. Anyways, he said he is going to relax and have fun out there tonight, hopefully it will work as he goes up against Fausto Carmona, who has very similar number to Sarfate, toss up. But still, LETS GO O'S!!!!
Back on the road tonight against the downtrodden Cleveland Indians, anybody else feeling a sweep. OK maybe that might be a little far fetched because the O's seem to have trouble in the third game of a series, but a guy can wish right? And four games in a row is going to be tough.
Dennis Sarfate, tonight's starting pitcher, got a text message from his wife after his last start saying, "Your trying to hard." Notice anything? Yea me TOO. Anyways, he said he is going to relax and have fun out there tonight, hopefully it will work as he goes up against Fausto Carmona, who has very similar number to Sarfate, toss up. But still, LETS GO O'S!!!!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Wow, and A Nice Trip
There you go O's fans a winning road trip, which was clinched by the right hand of a 27 year old rookie pitcher making his major league debut. Chris Waters pitcher 8 shutout innings of 1 hit baseball in his first start in the majors, to get his first win in the majors. Pretty impressive right, here a perspective, this is the first time a pitcher making his major league debut pitched that well for the Orioles in more than 20 years!
Watching Waters last night reminded me of the first time I saw Jeremy Guthrie pitch last year, they both just went out there and got the job done. I am not saying that Waters in our next staff ace like Guthrie, but there are a lot of similarities. Career minor leaguers getting their first start with the Orioles in an away game, both are in their late 20's, both pitched very well in their first outing, and both gave me a feeling of indescribable steadiness, one that this years pitching staff only gave me every five days. Now hopefully that will be more broken up. Congrats Chris!
Tonight matches up Olson vs. Santana. Not the best match up for the O's, or is it? Remember about two Sundays ago when the Orioles broke that streak, the same two pitchers were going at it, and Olson came out on top. Olson will be going for his third straight quality start and his third straight win, some thing he has yet to do in his major league career. LETS GO O'S!!!
Watching Waters last night reminded me of the first time I saw Jeremy Guthrie pitch last year, they both just went out there and got the job done. I am not saying that Waters in our next staff ace like Guthrie, but there are a lot of similarities. Career minor leaguers getting their first start with the Orioles in an away game, both are in their late 20's, both pitched very well in their first outing, and both gave me a feeling of indescribable steadiness, one that this years pitching staff only gave me every five days. Now hopefully that will be more broken up. Congrats Chris!
Tonight matches up Olson vs. Santana. Not the best match up for the O's, or is it? Remember about two Sundays ago when the Orioles broke that streak, the same two pitchers were going at it, and Olson came out on top. Olson will be going for his third straight quality start and his third straight win, some thing he has yet to do in his major league career. LETS GO O'S!!!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Comeback and Waters
What a game, what a team, not only did they come back to tie the game in the ninth inning, they did it against the games best closer. The Orioles, down 5-1 in the 9th, tied the game but RBI's by Melvin Mora and Nick Markakis. But eventually the O's closer George Sherill gave up a walk off walk to end the game. That should have been a heart breaker to manager Dave Trembley, but no, he reinforced how proud he was of his team and how they never gave up. Is this guy great or what?
Adam Jones flew back to Baltimore yesterday to get his foot checked out by team doctors, which could end up in a promotion for Bowie outfielder Lou Montanez, now aren't you glad I gave you that update yesterday so you know who he is.
Chris Waters will get his first major league start tonight against the best team in baseball. Tell me there won't be a little case of the nerves? I wish him well as it seems that those "September" call ups have started about a month too soon. That's only due to injuries people, wish AJ luck and a speedy recovery.
Adam Jones flew back to Baltimore yesterday to get his foot checked out by team doctors, which could end up in a promotion for Bowie outfielder Lou Montanez, now aren't you glad I gave you that update yesterday so you know who he is.
Chris Waters will get his first major league start tonight against the best team in baseball. Tell me there won't be a little case of the nerves? I wish him well as it seems that those "September" call ups have started about a month too soon. That's only due to injuries people, wish AJ luck and a speedy recovery.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Minor League
Quick update from the farm. Matt Wieters the Orioles number 1 prospect is batting an amazing .371 with 10 doubles, 6 homers, and 34 RBI's in 36 games. He posted slightly lower numbers in A Fredrick before his promotion to AA Bowie, another promotion maybe on the way this year to AAA Norfolk.
Also in AA Bowie Lou Montanez is hitting .334 with 26 homers and 97 RBI's. He is having a career year and should get a look at a promotion later this year. The only problem is that he is 27 and has struggled whenever getting a promotion.
Tuesdays pitcher will likely be from the farm system, two names being thrown around are pitchers C Waters and H Penn. It looks as though, if they were to call up a pitcher, it would be Waters, but that decision has yet to be made.
Brad Bergesen in AA Bowie has a club record of 14 wins this season, while posting a 2.70 ERA and 1.1 WHIP with 2 complete games and 2 shutouts in 123.1 innings. Looks like the real deal to me, and I say take the same course that the Rays are doing with their pitching prospects, move them one level at a time.
Also in AA Bowie Lou Montanez is hitting .334 with 26 homers and 97 RBI's. He is having a career year and should get a look at a promotion later this year. The only problem is that he is 27 and has struggled whenever getting a promotion.
Tuesdays pitcher will likely be from the farm system, two names being thrown around are pitchers C Waters and H Penn. It looks as though, if they were to call up a pitcher, it would be Waters, but that decision has yet to be made.
Brad Bergesen in AA Bowie has a club record of 14 wins this season, while posting a 2.70 ERA and 1.1 WHIP with 2 complete games and 2 shutouts in 123.1 innings. Looks like the real deal to me, and I say take the same course that the Rays are doing with their pitching prospects, move them one level at a time.
Oh Boy
The Orioles took two out of three from the Mariners this weekend; a road series win, even though they are the worst team in baseball. A road series win is a road series win. Next up is the best team in baseball, The Angels.
Its been tough for me to watch these West Coast games, because they start around 10PM Eastern Time, and I have work early in the morning. So I will do the best I can to give some kind of commentary.
Because it is always football season, and the Redskins played their first preseason game yesterday I get to talk about it. They looked pretty good in their opening drive, going for a touchdown in only 77 seconds. Jason Cambell looked comfortable and accurate going 5-5 in his passes. That's it for now, we'll get back to that later on in the year.
Tonight at 10:05 PM Dennis Sarfate vs. Joe Saunders. Saunders has a 5+ ERA against the O's but has never lost. Hopefully Sarfate just had a bout with nerves in his last start and settles into a nice grove tonight.
Its been tough for me to watch these West Coast games, because they start around 10PM Eastern Time, and I have work early in the morning. So I will do the best I can to give some kind of commentary.
Because it is always football season, and the Redskins played their first preseason game yesterday I get to talk about it. They looked pretty good in their opening drive, going for a touchdown in only 77 seconds. Jason Cambell looked comfortable and accurate going 5-5 in his passes. That's it for now, we'll get back to that later on in the year.
Tonight at 10:05 PM Dennis Sarfate vs. Joe Saunders. Saunders has a 5+ ERA against the O's but has never lost. Hopefully Sarfate just had a bout with nerves in his last start and settles into a nice grove tonight.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Comes and Goes, Way to Go O's!
The trade dead-line came and went with out any action by the Orioles. If MacPhail get paid due to his foresight, he should get a raise, the man not only is a trade genius, but a draft genius. Looking at his history with the two other major league clubs it is obvious he knows what he is doing and has a World Series and innumerable amount of playoff appearances.
As hard as it is to wait, which we have been doing for now the 11th year, I can wait a little longer if it means I won't have to for a while.
Other news: Daniel Cabrera was suspended 6 games for hitting A-rod in the Bronx!!! That is absolutely ridiculous, and an appeal is coming.
Big names that got traded yesterday, Ken Griffey Jr. and Manny Ramirez, Griffey went from the Reds to the White Sox, and Ramirez went from the Red Sox to the Dodgers.
Tonight at 10:05 PM Jarrod Washburn Vs. Garrett Olson. Olson needs another quality start like he had breaking the Sunday loosing streak. The Mariners traded a lot and, oddly enough, just like the Orioles last year fired their GM and Manager and started the re-building of their franchise.
Remember this is the team that gave us Adam Jones, George Sherill, and three others for Eric Bedard, looking like that trade may be one of the best for the Orioles. LETS GO O'S!!!
As hard as it is to wait, which we have been doing for now the 11th year, I can wait a little longer if it means I won't have to for a while.
Other news: Daniel Cabrera was suspended 6 games for hitting A-rod in the Bronx!!! That is absolutely ridiculous, and an appeal is coming.
Big names that got traded yesterday, Ken Griffey Jr. and Manny Ramirez, Griffey went from the Reds to the White Sox, and Ramirez went from the Red Sox to the Dodgers.
Tonight at 10:05 PM Jarrod Washburn Vs. Garrett Olson. Olson needs another quality start like he had breaking the Sunday loosing streak. The Mariners traded a lot and, oddly enough, just like the Orioles last year fired their GM and Manager and started the re-building of their franchise.
Remember this is the team that gave us Adam Jones, George Sherill, and three others for Eric Bedard, looking like that trade may be one of the best for the Orioles. LETS GO O'S!!!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Dead-Line is Really a Month Away
Wow, the MLB Non-Waiver Trade Dead-Line, its like Christmas to most fans, but to Oriole fans, it is more like a Christmas that just keeps getting pushed back. The print media and the Orioles front office can tell us fans as many times as they want that nothing is "eminent" but will that still stop us from feeling left out of the Christmas party? NOPE. While other teams are trading for prospects, or a big playoff push, the Orioles just sit back, kick their feet up, and revel being in last place, confident that the future of the franchise is firmly in the grasp of 3-4 young players. Risky, and yet it seems to them "sure fire" that Wieters, Jones, Markakis, and a handful of pitchers in the minors are going to win many championships. "Iffy" would be my choice of word.
Don't get me wrong I am as big of an Orioles fan as there is, but how many years in a row did we not do anything at this time of year? Too many. But, I guess there is a reason they get paid the millions, and I just write about it. And right now if there is no deal, there is no deal, and I would urge the O's not to lower their price on anyone, to do so would lower the price of the team, insulting its fans. If somebody gives in and gives up to us, great, we will not do so to them, that's for sure. So all you Oriole die hards, fans, fleeting followers, and near-by residents, ease your stress and relax, watch all the other teams flounder and fumble, while we stand firm in last place, complacent, preparing for the years to come.
Don't get me wrong I am as big of an Orioles fan as there is, but how many years in a row did we not do anything at this time of year? Too many. But, I guess there is a reason they get paid the millions, and I just write about it. And right now if there is no deal, there is no deal, and I would urge the O's not to lower their price on anyone, to do so would lower the price of the team, insulting its fans. If somebody gives in and gives up to us, great, we will not do so to them, that's for sure. So all you Oriole die hards, fans, fleeting followers, and near-by residents, ease your stress and relax, watch all the other teams flounder and fumble, while we stand firm in last place, complacent, preparing for the years to come.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Never A Doubt Georgie!!
Well that was nail bitter, and for all the people with blood pressure problems, stop watching the Orioles. But we can take two things from this, one, Daniel Cabrera had a good start and got the win for the first time in a long time, so his next start will probably be not so good. Two, the combined 20 runs in two games might be the most runs scored in a two game stretch by the Orioles this season, so most likely we won't score many runs today.
That could be completely wrong, and I hope it is. George Sherill lost some of his trade value last night, but still got the save. And, if every other sports news outlet is correct, don't expect to see much action by tomorrow at 4pm, the trade dead-line.
Day game today, 1:05 pm Joba Chamberlin vs. Dennis Sarfate. Sarfate is getting his first big league start today, in his hometown, to bad he was born in New York. I really hope we found something in Sarfate, that would be huge. LETS GO O'S!!
That could be completely wrong, and I hope it is. George Sherill lost some of his trade value last night, but still got the save. And, if every other sports news outlet is correct, don't expect to see much action by tomorrow at 4pm, the trade dead-line.
Day game today, 1:05 pm Joba Chamberlin vs. Dennis Sarfate. Sarfate is getting his first big league start today, in his hometown, to bad he was born in New York. I really hope we found something in Sarfate, that would be huge. LETS GO O'S!!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Boom Boom
That's the sound you could hear as far away as Philadelphia last night, coming from the bats of the Baltimore Orioles. With 13 runs and every starter getting a hit, you would've thought Liz was pitching, and we had lost, BUT it was thankful Jeremey Guthrie who got the win last night. Known, for his lack of run support Guthrie was able to work on a hitch in his delivery last night without much to worry about, must have been an odd feeling for him.
Other news is that Dennis Sarfate will make his first start of the season Wednesday in the Bronx, taking the spot in the rotation from Brian Burress, who was demoted to the bull-pen. Hopefully that will shake things up enough.
50-55, the Orioles record, meaning that in the next 57 games the O's need to go 31-26 to finish out the season at exactly .500, possible. But they will need to continue the trend of these last two games of getting quality starts from their pitchers, and if they don't, expect to see a few minor leaguers in Orange and Black in September.
Tonight is Daniel Cabrera vs. Darell Rasner at 7:05 PM, please, please be good Danny tonight. Please? LETS GO O'S!!
Other news is that Dennis Sarfate will make his first start of the season Wednesday in the Bronx, taking the spot in the rotation from Brian Burress, who was demoted to the bull-pen. Hopefully that will shake things up enough.
50-55, the Orioles record, meaning that in the next 57 games the O's need to go 31-26 to finish out the season at exactly .500, possible. But they will need to continue the trend of these last two games of getting quality starts from their pitchers, and if they don't, expect to see a few minor leaguers in Orange and Black in September.
Tonight is Daniel Cabrera vs. Darell Rasner at 7:05 PM, please, please be good Danny tonight. Please? LETS GO O'S!!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Amen
It is over, the Sunday curse that has puzzled the Orioles with 15 straight Sunday losses is over, as they beat the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim yesterday. And even more surprising that that is the fact the Garrett Olson went more than 4 innings. In his recent outings Olson has been solid for the first time around the opponents line-up, then while they made adjustments, he made none. Yesterday, however, he did make an adjustment and only gave up 2 runs in 6 innings.
And so they go on the road, up to Yankee Stadium, where, later in the year, they will play the last regular season game ever at The House that Ruth Built.
Tonight at 7:05 Jeremey Guthrie lines up against ex-Oriole Mike Mussina. LETS GO O'S!!
And so they go on the road, up to Yankee Stadium, where, later in the year, they will play the last regular season game ever at The House that Ruth Built.
Tonight at 7:05 Jeremey Guthrie lines up against ex-Oriole Mike Mussina. LETS GO O'S!!
Friday, July 25, 2008
The Good, The Ugly, and The Ugly
I want to end this on a bright spot, kind of, so I'll start off with the two uglies, yesterdays two games. Daniel Cabrera showed us the usual, terrible control, wild pitches and hit batters, perfect. Roy Haladay owns the Orioles, but our bat can still be considered "hot."
It is frustrating that games 100 and 101 of the season, where, with the Jays being on a very off year, we could make a run at .500 again, we end up blowing it. Has anybody seen the Orioles do that before?
Well it doesn't get much easier than last series because tonight we welcome the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, the team with the best record in baseball. But here is some good we can take out of it...sorry I was trying really hard to come up with something.
Now to the good, nay, GREAT. Last night I got the chance to see "The Dark Night." I don't really know how to describe the movie, this is the best I could do. It is the type of movie teenagers LOVE, the 20 year old crowd adores, and it makes the older generation want to become a superhero again. Yes, even the famous DPA would want to throw on some armour and run around at night. (PLEASE DPA NO TIGHTS!!!) You know my HOYA scale that I rank movies on, 1-5 Hoyas, well this one gets a 10. Heath Ledger, RIP, does an unbelievable job as the joker, and "The Dark Night" just bunny hopped "Rudy" "300" and "Tommy Boy" as my #1 favorite movie of all time.
Tonight 7:05 Sounders vs. Buress, please grab a win, please? LETS GO O'S!!
It is frustrating that games 100 and 101 of the season, where, with the Jays being on a very off year, we could make a run at .500 again, we end up blowing it. Has anybody seen the Orioles do that before?
Well it doesn't get much easier than last series because tonight we welcome the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, the team with the best record in baseball. But here is some good we can take out of it...sorry I was trying really hard to come up with something.
Now to the good, nay, GREAT. Last night I got the chance to see "The Dark Night." I don't really know how to describe the movie, this is the best I could do. It is the type of movie teenagers LOVE, the 20 year old crowd adores, and it makes the older generation want to become a superhero again. Yes, even the famous DPA would want to throw on some armour and run around at night. (PLEASE DPA NO TIGHTS!!!) You know my HOYA scale that I rank movies on, 1-5 Hoyas, well this one gets a 10. Heath Ledger, RIP, does an unbelievable job as the joker, and "The Dark Night" just bunny hopped "Rudy" "300" and "Tommy Boy" as my #1 favorite movie of all time.
Tonight 7:05 Sounders vs. Buress, please grab a win, please? LETS GO O'S!!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Rain
To complete the 100th game of the season, the Orioles will have to wait just a little bit longer. With 2 outs and a man on third in the top of the 6th inning and the Orioles trailing the Blue Jays 2-1 yesterdays game was suspended. It is scheduled for today at 12:05, 20 minutes after the final out, the O's will play the game regularly scheduled for today.
Guthrie was looking good, and we were starting to get some good hits off of A.J. Burnett, but now we will have to see how we can come back from this delay, always tough.
The second game will post Roy Haladay against Daniel Cabrera, and if Danny Boy has his stuff, we could be watching another pitching duel.
Does anybody else wish that the Orioles had about 4 or 5 more Jeremey Guthrie's pitching for them? That guy is great, he leaves everything he has out on that field and is very professional, and he is a good person. Speaking of good hardworking people, to say there is a new Iron Man at Camden Yards would be overstating just a bit, but when you see Mike Palulis on the nights he pulls bull-pen duty, you are in for a treat. If you are lucky enough to sit in the outfield, he really is an under-rated Camden Yards experience. The cat's pajamas if I many?
Guthrie was looking good, and we were starting to get some good hits off of A.J. Burnett, but now we will have to see how we can come back from this delay, always tough.
The second game will post Roy Haladay against Daniel Cabrera, and if Danny Boy has his stuff, we could be watching another pitching duel.
Does anybody else wish that the Orioles had about 4 or 5 more Jeremey Guthrie's pitching for them? That guy is great, he leaves everything he has out on that field and is very professional, and he is a good person. Speaking of good hardworking people, to say there is a new Iron Man at Camden Yards would be overstating just a bit, but when you see Mike Palulis on the nights he pulls bull-pen duty, you are in for a treat. If you are lucky enough to sit in the outfield, he really is an under-rated Camden Yards experience. The cat's pajamas if I many?
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Pitching and Defense
Well the defense looked good last night, pitching on the other hand was the reason we lost the game. Olson had another disappointing start, not able to go 5 innings, thankfully though we held the lead, then lost it, then held it again, and then lost it again.
Because of being overworked the bullpen has called upon young arms to fill spots. Young and inexperienced arms, with control problems, cannot help when the game is on the line. Moving forward though it becomes clearer and clearer every day that what this team REALLY needs, is starting pitching. We will have to wait until the young studs in AA Bowie Baysox are called upon, hopefully in September, but most likely in Spring Training.
Tonight is Guthrie vs. Burnett. Burnett is like a more polished Daniel Cabrera, so, hopefully we get bad AJ tonight. Lets keep the bats hot and lets get some run support for the only guy who deserves it. LETS GO O'S!
Because of being overworked the bullpen has called upon young arms to fill spots. Young and inexperienced arms, with control problems, cannot help when the game is on the line. Moving forward though it becomes clearer and clearer every day that what this team REALLY needs, is starting pitching. We will have to wait until the young studs in AA Bowie Baysox are called upon, hopefully in September, but most likely in Spring Training.
Tonight is Guthrie vs. Burnett. Burnett is like a more polished Daniel Cabrera, so, hopefully we get bad AJ tonight. Lets keep the bats hot and lets get some run support for the only guy who deserves it. LETS GO O'S!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Out of the Cellar
Quote of the day: "It's flattering to be the one that they keep asking about, but right now, I'm an Oriole and proud of it" - George Sherrill
Did someone just say they were proud to be an Oriole? Is that someone an All-Star? Yes and Yes. I guess things have really changed over there at Camden Yards. I love it when somebody shows loyalty to a franchise, especially with free agency and arbitration, it is highly unlikely that a player plays his entire career for one team. The attitude that Sherrill is showing though will hopefully change that for the Orioles.
Apparently Nick Markakis was talking about his contract with O's management and they have yet to come to an agreement. Nobody knows his asking price, but a reasonable deal that should get this settled should be a figure just above Alex Rios 6-year $65 million contract. I can live with that, heck, give him a little more for having to go through the rebuilding.
OK start by Liz last night, but comparatively, it was great. He went 5 2/3 giving up 6 walks and 3 runs, and got the win. Hopefully we can sweep or take 3 of 4 from the Blue Jays, tough with Marcum, Halladay and Burnett ending the series against Olson, Guthrie and Cabrera. Hey a guy can wish right?
Tonight at 7:05 Olson Vs. Marcum. Marcum though is making his first start since going on the 15-day disabled list, and will be limited to about 65-70 pitches, giving the O's a chance if they get at him early. Keep the magic going, LETS GO O"S!
Did someone just say they were proud to be an Oriole? Is that someone an All-Star? Yes and Yes. I guess things have really changed over there at Camden Yards. I love it when somebody shows loyalty to a franchise, especially with free agency and arbitration, it is highly unlikely that a player plays his entire career for one team. The attitude that Sherrill is showing though will hopefully change that for the Orioles.
Apparently Nick Markakis was talking about his contract with O's management and they have yet to come to an agreement. Nobody knows his asking price, but a reasonable deal that should get this settled should be a figure just above Alex Rios 6-year $65 million contract. I can live with that, heck, give him a little more for having to go through the rebuilding.
OK start by Liz last night, but comparatively, it was great. He went 5 2/3 giving up 6 walks and 3 runs, and got the win. Hopefully we can sweep or take 3 of 4 from the Blue Jays, tough with Marcum, Halladay and Burnett ending the series against Olson, Guthrie and Cabrera. Hey a guy can wish right?
Tonight at 7:05 Olson Vs. Marcum. Marcum though is making his first start since going on the 15-day disabled list, and will be limited to about 65-70 pitches, giving the O's a chance if they get at him early. Keep the magic going, LETS GO O"S!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Long Weekend
Hello and sorry for the three days without a post. So much has happened over the weekend, but I am going to try and keep this as short as possible.
Yesterdays loss makes the Sunday losing streak to 15 games, I don't know about any of you but I am not looking into this one bit. Mostly because in my eyes finishing the season with a .500 record is not the objective. It is to develop our younger players and I believe we have succeeded in that arena.
We split the series with the Tigers, with some fantastic finishes, and the big bat of Luke Scott. If anybody caught the Saturday night game, it looked like we should still be playing as the throw from Adam Jones in the top of the 10th was a little late. But fortunately the ump made the call and stuck to it, and we ended up winning on the walk off. I have also decided that Luke Scott showed the sports world how to cross the plate after a walk off, slide!
In Redskin news, Sunday the Redskins acquired Jason Taylor from the Miami Dolphins. It was an unfortunate situation that brought him to the Skins, but, to tell you the truth, I couldn't be happier. Will this be the year the Redskins make a push to go deep in the playoffs, who knows, ITS BASEBALL SEASON.
Tonight we open a 3 game series against the Blue Jays, Rodhames Liz will take the mound for the birds, looking to go deep in the game to give the 'pen some rest. LETS GO O'S!
Yesterdays loss makes the Sunday losing streak to 15 games, I don't know about any of you but I am not looking into this one bit. Mostly because in my eyes finishing the season with a .500 record is not the objective. It is to develop our younger players and I believe we have succeeded in that arena.
We split the series with the Tigers, with some fantastic finishes, and the big bat of Luke Scott. If anybody caught the Saturday night game, it looked like we should still be playing as the throw from Adam Jones in the top of the 10th was a little late. But fortunately the ump made the call and stuck to it, and we ended up winning on the walk off. I have also decided that Luke Scott showed the sports world how to cross the plate after a walk off, slide!
In Redskin news, Sunday the Redskins acquired Jason Taylor from the Miami Dolphins. It was an unfortunate situation that brought him to the Skins, but, to tell you the truth, I couldn't be happier. Will this be the year the Redskins make a push to go deep in the playoffs, who knows, ITS BASEBALL SEASON.
Tonight we open a 3 game series against the Blue Jays, Rodhames Liz will take the mound for the birds, looking to go deep in the game to give the 'pen some rest. LETS GO O'S!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
What To Do Now That We're in The Second Half
"We're excited about the future, but we also want to be excited about now." - Brian Roberts
There is no better quote than that to sum up the Orioles situation coming into the non-waiver trade deadline of July 31. Will they be sellers, or buyers? Kevin Millar certainly wants to be buyers, Andy McPhail just wants to wait it out. Beyond those seemingly unimportant deals yet to be made, WE HAVE O'S BASEBALL AGAIN!
Tonight starts an 11 game home stand. The Orioles will take on the Tigers in Baltimore, with Garrett Olson taking the mound against, Kenny Rogers, yea he still pitches in the majors. I have a feeling, much like Mr. McPhail's feeling about opening day, that this game will be huge in the tone of the second half. If this 11 game home stand goes well, and if we depart from B-More with a record over .500 don't expect to see much at the deadline.
Either way I am pumped to see my O's go at it again. Somebody make a sign at the yard saying, "Hey O's, it's fun watching you have fun!" That week right before the break didn't look fun, nor was it watching it.
There is no better quote than that to sum up the Orioles situation coming into the non-waiver trade deadline of July 31. Will they be sellers, or buyers? Kevin Millar certainly wants to be buyers, Andy McPhail just wants to wait it out. Beyond those seemingly unimportant deals yet to be made, WE HAVE O'S BASEBALL AGAIN!
Tonight starts an 11 game home stand. The Orioles will take on the Tigers in Baltimore, with Garrett Olson taking the mound against, Kenny Rogers, yea he still pitches in the majors. I have a feeling, much like Mr. McPhail's feeling about opening day, that this game will be huge in the tone of the second half. If this 11 game home stand goes well, and if we depart from B-More with a record over .500 don't expect to see much at the deadline.
Either way I am pumped to see my O's go at it again. Somebody make a sign at the yard saying, "Hey O's, it's fun watching you have fun!" That week right before the break didn't look fun, nor was it watching it.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Respect
I admit it I was looking at other blogs and I came across this post. The original blogger asked for a mid-season review, what to do before the trade dead-line, and about the .500 winning percentage mark. After about six post a poster, named Lucky Horseshoe, had this to say:
"Peter, you said .500 was important to all fans. I am a fan and it is totally UNimportant to me. I couldn't care less if we end the season at a .490, .500 or .510 winning percentage. I care that we stick to the plan and execute it well and smartly. If we do that, playing .500 baseball will be setting the bar too low. So I totally disagree with your original post and agree largely with your second post. They say opposite things.I still bristle at the suggestion that we return to “the Oriole Way”. First, there is no such thing. As Lee McPhail originally set the path for this team it meant building through the farm system, concentrating on pitching and defense and bringing every player through the farm system learning the same terms, moves and way of playing. Well pitching and defense have been stressed since the dead ball era, there was no free agency so the farm system was the only way to build and the structure of the farm system was based on the Dodgers. The difference was that the O’s executed it well and they won. The Royals tried the same thing long ago with their baseball academy but didn't have the same results. What really bothers me is that some of the same folks who throw around the term “the Oriole Way” are the same folks who want us to rush Wieters and some young arms up to the majors. This is the total antithesis of “the Oriole Way” to the extent there was such a thing. Those teams were based on what the players learned in the minors. Hopefully we are implementing changes to the minor league systems and coaching staffs that will give us the same stability we had back then. But changes to the business of baseball will prevent parts of those systems from working and that has to be accounted for.Fred I reject your criticism of McPhail. The points you make dont hold water. Please detail what it is that you consider to be flip flopping on .500. I don't believe he has ever set .500 as a goal except indirectly in response to questions about it. I don't think he has wavered from his stated goal of rebuilding this organization from the ground up. I don't think he has ever intimated a temptation on his part to sacrifice that total organizational overhaul for short sighted short term goals. You will have to give me an idea of what you base that on because I don't see it in his words or actions. I, and most baseball “experts” disagree with your assessment of his trade strategy. While the national writers and commentators are not infallible, most know more than you or I about both baseball and the true story in the backrooms that you and I cant know about. They have sources we don't have access to. So when a Rosenthal, Kirkjian and Gammons seem to all agree that he got the better of both trades and through dogged persistence and patience improved his take as time went by, I have to feel that your accusations are just a fan with a bone to pick. It is a manufactured criticism when you agree that his two trades were good ones but complain he took too long to make them. Don't you see how silly that sounds? Who cares if it took him 3 days or 3 months as long as he “wins” the trade and the players are in place before spring training or the start of the season? And how do you know if he could have had the same return if he hadn't showed patience and persistence? Who knows why Matusz isn't signed. Who cares? How many first rounders ARE signed? There is no hurry. We want him to win for the next 15 years. not the next 15 minutes. Winning baseball organizations are built, they don't hatch full grown. Rebuilding this team is a marathon, not a sprint. You are manufacturing reasons to dis McPhail because there is nothing yet to legitimately complain about. I can’t possibly know your motivation but it is clear from your post."
Well put Luck, well put.
"Peter, you said .500 was important to all fans. I am a fan and it is totally UNimportant to me. I couldn't care less if we end the season at a .490, .500 or .510 winning percentage. I care that we stick to the plan and execute it well and smartly. If we do that, playing .500 baseball will be setting the bar too low. So I totally disagree with your original post and agree largely with your second post. They say opposite things.I still bristle at the suggestion that we return to “the Oriole Way”. First, there is no such thing. As Lee McPhail originally set the path for this team it meant building through the farm system, concentrating on pitching and defense and bringing every player through the farm system learning the same terms, moves and way of playing. Well pitching and defense have been stressed since the dead ball era, there was no free agency so the farm system was the only way to build and the structure of the farm system was based on the Dodgers. The difference was that the O’s executed it well and they won. The Royals tried the same thing long ago with their baseball academy but didn't have the same results. What really bothers me is that some of the same folks who throw around the term “the Oriole Way” are the same folks who want us to rush Wieters and some young arms up to the majors. This is the total antithesis of “the Oriole Way” to the extent there was such a thing. Those teams were based on what the players learned in the minors. Hopefully we are implementing changes to the minor league systems and coaching staffs that will give us the same stability we had back then. But changes to the business of baseball will prevent parts of those systems from working and that has to be accounted for.Fred I reject your criticism of McPhail. The points you make dont hold water. Please detail what it is that you consider to be flip flopping on .500. I don't believe he has ever set .500 as a goal except indirectly in response to questions about it. I don't think he has wavered from his stated goal of rebuilding this organization from the ground up. I don't think he has ever intimated a temptation on his part to sacrifice that total organizational overhaul for short sighted short term goals. You will have to give me an idea of what you base that on because I don't see it in his words or actions. I, and most baseball “experts” disagree with your assessment of his trade strategy. While the national writers and commentators are not infallible, most know more than you or I about both baseball and the true story in the backrooms that you and I cant know about. They have sources we don't have access to. So when a Rosenthal, Kirkjian and Gammons seem to all agree that he got the better of both trades and through dogged persistence and patience improved his take as time went by, I have to feel that your accusations are just a fan with a bone to pick. It is a manufactured criticism when you agree that his two trades were good ones but complain he took too long to make them. Don't you see how silly that sounds? Who cares if it took him 3 days or 3 months as long as he “wins” the trade and the players are in place before spring training or the start of the season? And how do you know if he could have had the same return if he hadn't showed patience and persistence? Who knows why Matusz isn't signed. Who cares? How many first rounders ARE signed? There is no hurry. We want him to win for the next 15 years. not the next 15 minutes. Winning baseball organizations are built, they don't hatch full grown. Rebuilding this team is a marathon, not a sprint. You are manufacturing reasons to dis McPhail because there is nothing yet to legitimately complain about. I can’t possibly know your motivation but it is clear from your post."
Well put Luck, well put.
Josh Hammer'ton
Corny right? Anyways, what he did last night was absurd, the reason I posted this a little later was because I couldn't stop reading articles about him. Someone might want to call Disney, they have their next Blockbuster in the making, and its not even done yet. Another little tid-bit about last night, I loved the fact that a 71 year old threw him all those BP balls, anybody calculate his ERA, 28 runs in 3 1/3 innings. Does it matter that he lost the derby in the last round? Nope. All that matters to me is that my generation and the one after me have a new player to look up at and say, "If Josh Hamilton can do it, so can I." And to tell you the truth, I think that is more important to him than winning a home run derby. I don't have enough time, nor space to tell you what he has gone through, so I would recommend Google-ing him and reading about what he has done to himself, and how he has gotten back on track. Incredible.
Well tonight is the All-Star game, and to tell you the truth I was more excited about the celebrity softball game. I might tune in for the last inning, just to see Mariano finish it off, but who knows.
Well tonight is the All-Star game, and to tell you the truth I was more excited about the celebrity softball game. I might tune in for the last inning, just to see Mariano finish it off, but who knows.
Monday, July 14, 2008
All-Star Breakage
What a good time for the All-Star break as the Orioles have lost 4 of 5 coming into the break. Also, they extended there Sunday loss streak to 14 games, awesome. Neither pitcher yesterday looked like they had their best stuff, it looked like the batters didn't either. I am having trouble with something to say because I am not liking the situation right now.
As I have said about 100 times before, and what yesterdays game made as obvious as the outfield grass being green, the Orioles are in DESPERATE need of a short stop. Hopefully something changes soon at that spot, or we can blow more winnable games.
Note: Melvin Mora stranded 11 out of the 15 base runners stranded in yesterday's game.
As for me I will have to wait until Mr. McPhail makes some moves for a short stop to stop complaining. But until then we have tonight's home run derby at 8, and then the All-Star game tomorrow, have fun and lets go O's.
As I have said about 100 times before, and what yesterdays game made as obvious as the outfield grass being green, the Orioles are in DESPERATE need of a short stop. Hopefully something changes soon at that spot, or we can blow more winnable games.
Note: Melvin Mora stranded 11 out of the 15 base runners stranded in yesterday's game.
As for me I will have to wait until Mr. McPhail makes some moves for a short stop to stop complaining. But until then we have tonight's home run derby at 8, and then the All-Star game tomorrow, have fun and lets go O's.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Alright Alright
Well there you go...stooping the loosing streak from the arm of Brian Burres, who would have thought? I am happy, but nervous, how would a sweep of the Red Sox be before the break, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. Rodhames Liz is pitching tonight against the knuckleballer Tim Wakefield. I really am satisfied and don't have much to say.
Like the great Chick-Fil-A I will not be working on Sundays, day of rest. Sorry for the short post. LETS GO O'S!!!!
Like the great Chick-Fil-A I will not be working on Sundays, day of rest. Sorry for the short post. LETS GO O'S!!!!
Friday, July 11, 2008
OK so...
OK so...we got swept by the Blue Jays, it was predicted by some that we would loose 100 games.
OK so...our next series is against the World Champion Red Sox, but after that its the All-Star break and then 11 home games.
OK so...our bullpen is worn down, and 3 of 5 starters can't go 6 innings, remember they are rookies, the Baltimore Sun calls these last outings, "growing pains" they will get over it.
OK so...Jeremy Guthrie can't win a game where he pitches great. Do you think he cares if he gets the W as long as the team does, he doesn't which is a huge plus for the O's.
OK so...we are at least two year from contention, I'm OK with that because it is fun watching these Orioles have fun, only problem is, the last four games they didn't look like they were having fun.
OK so...we need to get middle infield prospects, we will, let Mr. McPhail do his job, plus Matt Wieters is a machine, several All-Star appearances are in his future.
OK so...tonight in Boston Brian Burres is pitching again, remember, he can be dominant, note the first few weeks of the season. Also our bats have been hot and the Sox are putting a 'semi' rookie on the mound. Slug Fest? I hope not.
OK so...we are looking at going into the break under .500, SO WHAT, in my eyes taking 2 of 3 from the Sox would be the greatest thing since taking 2 of 3 from the SOX, oh yea that would also put us at .500 going into the break. Don't get your hopes up.
OK so...our next series is against the World Champion Red Sox, but after that its the All-Star break and then 11 home games.
OK so...our bullpen is worn down, and 3 of 5 starters can't go 6 innings, remember they are rookies, the Baltimore Sun calls these last outings, "growing pains" they will get over it.
OK so...Jeremy Guthrie can't win a game where he pitches great. Do you think he cares if he gets the W as long as the team does, he doesn't which is a huge plus for the O's.
OK so...we are at least two year from contention, I'm OK with that because it is fun watching these Orioles have fun, only problem is, the last four games they didn't look like they were having fun.
OK so...we need to get middle infield prospects, we will, let Mr. McPhail do his job, plus Matt Wieters is a machine, several All-Star appearances are in his future.
OK so...tonight in Boston Brian Burres is pitching again, remember, he can be dominant, note the first few weeks of the season. Also our bats have been hot and the Sox are putting a 'semi' rookie on the mound. Slug Fest? I hope not.
OK so...we are looking at going into the break under .500, SO WHAT, in my eyes taking 2 of 3 from the Sox would be the greatest thing since taking 2 of 3 from the SOX, oh yea that would also put us at .500 going into the break. Don't get your hopes up.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Only 4 More Days
Thankfully there are only four more days until the All-Star break, I don't think I could handle it if there was no break. And thankfully Jeremy 'Guts' Guthrie is pitching tonight, I love watching him work. Last night came close to what I prescribed we needed, hopefully it will be enough to win tonight's game, and then we travel to the dangerous Red Sox to play three games in Fenway.
Nick Markakis extended his hitting streak to 16 games, hitting about .400 in that span, raising his average to .303. Adam Jones, Aubrey Huff, and Brian Roberts also have been hitting lights out. But it always seems, for the Orioles at least, that when one thing is going well another is slumping big time, pitching. The team ERA that was once at 3.80 in May is now at 4.80, in baseball a whole run more on an ERA IS a big deal.
Hey Guts, show some tonight and shake off this loosing streak.
Nick Markakis extended his hitting streak to 16 games, hitting about .400 in that span, raising his average to .303. Adam Jones, Aubrey Huff, and Brian Roberts also have been hitting lights out. But it always seems, for the Orioles at least, that when one thing is going well another is slumping big time, pitching. The team ERA that was once at 3.80 in May is now at 4.80, in baseball a whole run more on an ERA IS a big deal.
Hey Guts, show some tonight and shake off this loosing streak.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Nicknames can Brighten the Mood
Here a few nicknames I (I being me and people on other blogs/websites) picked up for the O's:
Daniel Cabrera
- Danny Boy
-I'm with Danny Boy just because you can hold the boy, "Danny BOOOOOY"
Jeremy Guthrie
-Guts
-Awesome, its just his last name shortened, but it says so much more.
Ramon Hernandez
- Razor Ramon
-Don't know why people chose this, but hey, I'm not against it.
Aubrey Huff
-The Rooster
-Hahahaha.
Adam Jones
-Dr. Jones
-This has awesome use potential, check it, "No time for love Dr. Jones!! We need a double!!"
Nick Markakis
-Honeybear
-My favorite nickname on the O's, if you don't get it check out the youtube video on the right.
Kevin Millar
-Kevbo
-Cowboy up is an action, not a nickname.
Melvin Mora
-MelMo
-Reminds me of Elmo, what other options did they have?
Brian Roberts
-B-Rob
-Every team should have at least one player with a nickname consisting of (First initial - Shortened last name)
Luke Scott
-LUUUUKE
-Kind of like former Orioles "MOOOSE" just "LUUUKE"
George Sherrill
-Flat Breezy
-Note his flat brimmed hat.
OR
-Georgie Boy
-Clubhouse favorite
Tonight's pitcher is Garett Olson, looking to go deep into the game because of the unexpected amount of pitchers used last night. If we win, it will be a huge emotional lift for this team, not to mention stopping an 3 loss skid. Think of it this way, we take the next two from the Jay's and one from the Sox we go into the break at .500, anybody who said that was possible 3 months ago would've been stoned.
Jim...OUT!
Daniel Cabrera
- Danny Boy
-I'm with Danny Boy just because you can hold the boy, "Danny BOOOOOY"
Jeremy Guthrie
-Guts
-Awesome, its just his last name shortened, but it says so much more.
Ramon Hernandez
- Razor Ramon
-Don't know why people chose this, but hey, I'm not against it.
Aubrey Huff
-The Rooster
-Hahahaha.
Adam Jones
-Dr. Jones
-This has awesome use potential, check it, "No time for love Dr. Jones!! We need a double!!"
Nick Markakis
-Honeybear
-My favorite nickname on the O's, if you don't get it check out the youtube video on the right.
Kevin Millar
-Kevbo
-Cowboy up is an action, not a nickname.
Melvin Mora
-MelMo
-Reminds me of Elmo, what other options did they have?
Brian Roberts
-B-Rob
-Every team should have at least one player with a nickname consisting of (First initial - Shortened last name)
Luke Scott
-LUUUUKE
-Kind of like former Orioles "MOOOSE" just "LUUUKE"
George Sherrill
-Flat Breezy
-Note his flat brimmed hat.
OR
-Georgie Boy
-Clubhouse favorite
Tonight's pitcher is Garett Olson, looking to go deep into the game because of the unexpected amount of pitchers used last night. If we win, it will be a huge emotional lift for this team, not to mention stopping an 3 loss skid. Think of it this way, we take the next two from the Jay's and one from the Sox we go into the break at .500, anybody who said that was possible 3 months ago would've been stoned.
Jim...OUT!
Why Not Make it Easy for AP
Dear Andy McPhail,
Please take note of last nights game, where we lost on an error by one of our many different short stops. Note that it is still in your hands to make sure games like that, two or three years from now, don't happen because of the talent that is on the field. I know it is still only a year into the "rebuilding process," but anything you can do to keep it going will be greatly appreciated by us fans. But on the other hand, please take into consideration how it is making us feel to see our O's at .500, its good.
Because I am only a fan and I am not in your position, I can only say these things based on what I see on the field. We need a short stop for the future, no more platoons, PLEASE. I hear about the clubhouse and how great the chemistry is, for me it means keep Kevin Millar and let him teach the young guys that get to come up how to play this game, "The Orioles Way" because I can see that way in him. As for a few player to consider moving, if at all possible, here are a few names I see as good options. Aubrey Huff, no one can deny his great start, but in reality he would do this franchise a bigger service as a trading chip, especially since he is hot. Jay Payton, I know it seems as he is coming around, in the clubhouse mix, but I'm sure there are a few teams out there looking for a veteran right handed outfielder. You can try Melvin Mora, but I like him, I don't know why, but that's what makes me a fan, and you the boss.
And hey, Mr. McPhail, why not go after Mark Teixeira in the off season, let him play 1B and somebody else, Millar? to DH. I think that would help bring back some of the fan base lost in the decade of losing. A hometown boy, do you remember the last "hometown" boy we had? He wore number 8 and lives in Cooperstown now. Yea. Think about it.
Sincerely,
Jim
Please take note of last nights game, where we lost on an error by one of our many different short stops. Note that it is still in your hands to make sure games like that, two or three years from now, don't happen because of the talent that is on the field. I know it is still only a year into the "rebuilding process," but anything you can do to keep it going will be greatly appreciated by us fans. But on the other hand, please take into consideration how it is making us feel to see our O's at .500, its good.
Because I am only a fan and I am not in your position, I can only say these things based on what I see on the field. We need a short stop for the future, no more platoons, PLEASE. I hear about the clubhouse and how great the chemistry is, for me it means keep Kevin Millar and let him teach the young guys that get to come up how to play this game, "The Orioles Way" because I can see that way in him. As for a few player to consider moving, if at all possible, here are a few names I see as good options. Aubrey Huff, no one can deny his great start, but in reality he would do this franchise a bigger service as a trading chip, especially since he is hot. Jay Payton, I know it seems as he is coming around, in the clubhouse mix, but I'm sure there are a few teams out there looking for a veteran right handed outfielder. You can try Melvin Mora, but I like him, I don't know why, but that's what makes me a fan, and you the boss.
And hey, Mr. McPhail, why not go after Mark Teixeira in the off season, let him play 1B and somebody else, Millar? to DH. I think that would help bring back some of the fan base lost in the decade of losing. A hometown boy, do you remember the last "hometown" boy we had? He wore number 8 and lives in Cooperstown now. Yea. Think about it.
Sincerely,
Jim
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
News Breifing
Here we go...
The Orioles are 20-9 in the first game of s series this year compare that to 27-26 last year, if they can keep it up, that's is a huge improvement.
The Orioles are 18-19 when giving up a run in the first inning, meaning they are 26- 24 when they do not, not a huge disparity, but something I wouldn't mind to see change.
Daniel Cabrera is 4-7 in 14 games at Toronto in his career, he also has two complete games, and the Orioles are 7-7 when he takes the mound up north.
George Sherrill got the nod to represent the Orioles in the upcoming All-Star game at Yankee Stadium, he has 27 saves, good enough for second in the AL in that category.
Aubrey Huff was named AL player of the week for last week, going 10-29 (.345) with 3 doubles, 3 home runs, and 9 RBI's. He beat out Nick Markakis, A-Rod, and Roy Halladay.
Adam 'Boom Boom' Jones is hitting .282, way up from the .230's he was hitting earlier in the year. He has seen his average, RBI's and runs scored steadily increase as the season progresses.
Nick Markakis has a 14 game hit streak going 21-55 (.382) during his career best streak. He has almost double his walks as of this time last year, and is currently tied for second place in the AL with 8 outfield assists.
The Orioles are 20-9 in the first game of s series this year compare that to 27-26 last year, if they can keep it up, that's is a huge improvement.
The Orioles are 18-19 when giving up a run in the first inning, meaning they are 26- 24 when they do not, not a huge disparity, but something I wouldn't mind to see change.
Daniel Cabrera is 4-7 in 14 games at Toronto in his career, he also has two complete games, and the Orioles are 7-7 when he takes the mound up north.
George Sherrill got the nod to represent the Orioles in the upcoming All-Star game at Yankee Stadium, he has 27 saves, good enough for second in the AL in that category.
Aubrey Huff was named AL player of the week for last week, going 10-29 (.345) with 3 doubles, 3 home runs, and 9 RBI's. He beat out Nick Markakis, A-Rod, and Roy Halladay.
Adam 'Boom Boom' Jones is hitting .282, way up from the .230's he was hitting earlier in the year. He has seen his average, RBI's and runs scored steadily increase as the season progresses.
Nick Markakis has a 14 game hit streak going 21-55 (.382) during his career best streak. He has almost double his walks as of this time last year, and is currently tied for second place in the AL with 8 outfield assists.
Time Will Tell
23 Days until the trade deadline, Mr. McPhail has some choices to make. Does he try to ship the hot players and continue to completely rebuild this team, or does he make a few improvements for the here and now that may also work well down the road? I'm glad its not my decision. GET TEX! Anyways, Matt Weiters is batting .342 in 11 games for AA Bowie, not bad, but lets give him half a season there and then have him starting next season.
Tonight's game is in Toronto against the Blue Jays, who, surprisingly are in the cellar of the AL East. Last time they met the O's took 2 of 3 and Jeremy Guthrie got some run support (the games he does stick out.) Tonight it will be Daniel Cabrera coming off a complete game, I don't think he'll have another one, but I hope we see the Danny C. from the beginning of the season again, stringing quality starts together. Who knows, but I know I will be back later on with some nice stats just before game time.
Tonight's game is in Toronto against the Blue Jays, who, surprisingly are in the cellar of the AL East. Last time they met the O's took 2 of 3 and Jeremy Guthrie got some run support (the games he does stick out.) Tonight it will be Daniel Cabrera coming off a complete game, I don't think he'll have another one, but I hope we see the Danny C. from the beginning of the season again, stringing quality starts together. Who knows, but I know I will be back later on with some nice stats just before game time.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Back When
So I did a lot of scanning today at work, which left me a lot of free time on the Internet. I read a Baltimore Sun blog about changes that fans want made to OPCY (Oriole Park at Camden Yards) and it brought me a sense of nostalgia. I remember my first game at Camden Yards, the green grass, perfect white jerseys and of course, "Ice cold icy ice, ice cold lemon chill!" I also remember the enthusiasm of the fans, I found myself yearning to feel the sense of being a part of the game, having an influence through my young shouts. Then I read about Wild Bill Hagy and section 34, I wanted to be a part of that, no, I want a new section 34, maybe a right center field section 90-98? Is there anything better than a day game at a major league ball park?
If anyone is a Redskins fan and has been to a game, you know the feeling of screaming at the other team and having all your Redskin Family back you up. A chant could start at the drop of a hat, so why can't that happen for our Orioles. Maybe a winning season will do it, exhibit A is the Rays. Maybe it might have to be a string of playoff runs? Maybe it will happen in a few years? Maybe it will happen in my lifetime? Maybe not. Will that deter me from going to a game, and when I can afford it, all of them, no, and I hope you won't either.
For fun here is a youtube video of a report on Wild Bill Hagy. Take some notes O's fans, and lets get back to that sometime in the next 60-70 years, but why not sooner?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=cVoSYXQ1EEM
If anyone is a Redskins fan and has been to a game, you know the feeling of screaming at the other team and having all your Redskin Family back you up. A chant could start at the drop of a hat, so why can't that happen for our Orioles. Maybe a winning season will do it, exhibit A is the Rays. Maybe it might have to be a string of playoff runs? Maybe it will happen in a few years? Maybe it will happen in my lifetime? Maybe not. Will that deter me from going to a game, and when I can afford it, all of them, no, and I hope you won't either.
For fun here is a youtube video of a report on Wild Bill Hagy. Take some notes O's fans, and lets get back to that sometime in the next 60-70 years, but why not sooner?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=cVoSYXQ1EEM
This Is Not Looking Good
That 11-10 loss yesterday was not a good sign, not only was it the Orioles 13th straight Sunday loss, but Lowen was injured, and a lot of the teams needs were brought to the surface. It has become apparent that the O's are in desperate need of their starters to have long outings. Now lets look at it this way, last years best starting pitcher averaged about 7 innings per game the bottom 3 of the Orioles rotation is lasting an average of just under 5. That's is not just two innings the bullpen has to pick up, that is four innings. The O's only have two pitchers that average more, both Daniel Cabrera and Jeremy Guthrie average about 6.5 innings, but that number is skewed for Cabrera, who has two complete games. This comes into play with the second weakness, which used to be a strong point, the bullpen. Plain and simple, they are worn out, good that this All-Star break is soon.
The third weakness is shortstop, easy, but no easy fix. Before the trade deadline, I think, as much as I like watching this group, that we need to unload some of the players, Huff and Payton, to get some infield prospects. Maybe trade something to the Royals for their top SS prospect, supposedly awesome bat. But who are we kidding, the Royals aren't making a push at a postseason berth. But someone who is sure would like a hot bat like Huff, or a steady player like Payton.
Mr. McPhail is doing a great job, I hope that, even though he doesn't want to "Pull the rug out from underneath these guys," he pulls the rug out from underneath them. That would be doing whats best for the franchise, tough, but necessary, maybe not yet, but in the very near future.
The third weakness is shortstop, easy, but no easy fix. Before the trade deadline, I think, as much as I like watching this group, that we need to unload some of the players, Huff and Payton, to get some infield prospects. Maybe trade something to the Royals for their top SS prospect, supposedly awesome bat. But who are we kidding, the Royals aren't making a push at a postseason berth. But someone who is sure would like a hot bat like Huff, or a steady player like Payton.
Mr. McPhail is doing a great job, I hope that, even though he doesn't want to "Pull the rug out from underneath these guys," he pulls the rug out from underneath them. That would be doing whats best for the franchise, tough, but necessary, maybe not yet, but in the very near future.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Nothing over 10...PLEASE!!!
Texas didn't get very close to 30 runs yesterday, and I hope they never will again. Guthrie pitchd well into the 6th then let up a little, hopefully Freddie Bynum stepped up and had three RBI's. The bottom of the lineup has been really doing what they have been asked to do. Each game I am more and more believing in this team, not for a playoff run, but for the next few years. Adam Jones hit almost .400 in the month of June.
Now I'm going to give a plug to MLB TV, I love this feature from MLB because beingin Philly, being able to watch the games is a big plus. Thanks!
Now I'm going to give a plug to MLB TV, I love this feature from MLB because beingin Philly, being able to watch the games is a big plus. Thanks!
Friday, July 4, 2008
Happy 4th
Happy fourth of July everybody, I am down in Ocean City, New Jersey and that was the reson for the late post. A 4:35 pm game today with Baltimore's ace, Jeremy Guthrie taking the mound. The first time I saw him start last year, I knew he was going to be good. I feel like my predictions are always right on par, except for last night. Sorry.
Well it is to nice to stay inside today, go out there and have some fun, I'll see you tomorrow, hopefully with the O's another game above the .500 mark.
USA, USA, USA!!!!
Well it is to nice to stay inside today, go out there and have some fun, I'll see you tomorrow, hopefully with the O's another game above the .500 mark.
USA, USA, USA!!!!
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Battle Royal!!
This is going to be my longest post, but by far the best. Many of you know one of my 6 housemates, Tim Foley, son of Tom Foley. Well today at work I met a co-worker named Tom Foley. I mentioned I had a friend named Tim and he said that was his sons name. Upon informing my housemate he replied via e-mail,
"They probably suck. I want a complete analysis of these guys tonight. I want everything. I wanna know which foley tandum is cooler, smarter, better looking... anything you can think of."
Of couse I did some research and found the best way to decide the better Foley Family was to have a characteristic BATTLE ROYAL!!! Here it is:
"Foley #1 V. Foley #2 Battle Royal!!
ROUND 1
Who would survive the Stone Age?
An easy way to answer this, who has better vision? Considering Tom #1 and Tim #1 both wear corrective lenses and Tom & Tim #2 don't, and survival comes in the stone age by being able to see your attackers, or a pack of foxes, round # 1 goes to #2
ROUND 2
Who would survive the Ice Age?
Considering the amount of fur running in the family line of Foley's #1(Bryan is too cool for fur) and the lack of hair in Foley #2's Family. It is easy to say that the warmer you are the better shot of surviving the Ice Age as a Foley #1, Round #2 goes to #1
ROUND 3
Who is Better Looking?
Tough one here, if we just consider both Tom's and both Tim's only #2 has a clear advantage, but if we take Families as a whole, Bryan has more of a power injection than Barry Bonds once had/used. Tim and Tom #1 thank Bryan for your slight advantage...I don't know how the other Foley's survived this long in history with out someone like Brian
Final Count
Foley's #1 - 1.75
Foley's #2 - 1.25
Congrats!!
"They probably suck. I want a complete analysis of these guys tonight. I want everything. I wanna know which foley tandum is cooler, smarter, better looking... anything you can think of."
Of couse I did some research and found the best way to decide the better Foley Family was to have a characteristic BATTLE ROYAL!!! Here it is:
"Foley #1 V. Foley #2 Battle Royal!!
ROUND 1
Who would survive the Stone Age?
An easy way to answer this, who has better vision? Considering Tom #1 and Tim #1 both wear corrective lenses and Tom & Tim #2 don't, and survival comes in the stone age by being able to see your attackers, or a pack of foxes, round # 1 goes to #2
ROUND 2
Who would survive the Ice Age?
Considering the amount of fur running in the family line of Foley's #1(Bryan is too cool for fur) and the lack of hair in Foley #2's Family. It is easy to say that the warmer you are the better shot of surviving the Ice Age as a Foley #1, Round #2 goes to #1
ROUND 3
Who is Better Looking?
Tough one here, if we just consider both Tom's and both Tim's only #2 has a clear advantage, but if we take Families as a whole, Bryan has more of a power injection than Barry Bonds once had/used. Tim and Tom #1 thank Bryan for your slight advantage...I don't know how the other Foley's survived this long in history with out someone like Brian
Final Count
Foley's #1 - 1.75
Foley's #2 - 1.25
Congrats!!
Did I say that?
I remember using the word 'dominant' in my last post regarding Danny C. Its kind of funny to see all those "proffesional" writers use it now, after he was, dominant. Maybe I do have a thing for this? Anyways last night makes two in a row for the O's and Daniel Cabrera pitched a complete game. They won 5-2 with run support from Aubrey Huff who has been on fire in the past month and 3 days.
Nick Markakis was robbed of a homerun when Royals center feilder make a leaping try against the center feild wall. He only managed to bring the ball back into play without catching it, leaving Nick with an RBI triple instead of a homerun. That man, Joey Gathwright, has some serious speed.
I dont know what to do about our shortstop position. I feel like the smart play would to get a young guy who hasn't proven himself. That way he could develop along with Adam Jones, although I doubt there is somebody out there who we could grab from a team who fits that mold.
Today another KC matchup, this time its youngster Garett Olson. I really like his stuff, in the next few years he will be a great middle of the rotation guy, but this year its tough to say which Olson we will get. Although seeing that we are in Baltimore, where his numbers are way better, I think we will be pleasantly supprised tonight.
Nick Markakis was robbed of a homerun when Royals center feilder make a leaping try against the center feild wall. He only managed to bring the ball back into play without catching it, leaving Nick with an RBI triple instead of a homerun. That man, Joey Gathwright, has some serious speed.
I dont know what to do about our shortstop position. I feel like the smart play would to get a young guy who hasn't proven himself. That way he could develop along with Adam Jones, although I doubt there is somebody out there who we could grab from a team who fits that mold.
Today another KC matchup, this time its youngster Garett Olson. I really like his stuff, in the next few years he will be a great middle of the rotation guy, but this year its tough to say which Olson we will get. Although seeing that we are in Baltimore, where his numbers are way better, I think we will be pleasantly supprised tonight.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
A little minor league talk
Today on ESPN's Sportsnation Baseball America's Jim Callis answered questions from around the country regarding minor leauge prospect. Some Oriole fans got a few in there, 'VK' from D.C. asked if Orioles top prospect catcher Matt Weiters had an argument for the number one prospect in all of the minor leauges, in his very proffesional opinion, "Yes." A man of few words, but he makes them count for O's fans. The final question with regards to the Orioles was a multiple choice, three years down the line "2011, Weiters/Markakis/Jones will be A) Above average major leaugers B) Huge busts (minus Nick) C) A Pitchers nightmare" and again Jim's few words go a long way, simply, "A & C." Thanks for making an Orioles fans day Jim, by the way GREAT name.
Hancock
First things first, O's stoped there "skid" last night beating the Royals 7-5. Every game I am more and more impressed with Adam 'Boom Boom' Jones. He is batting .272 with 31 RBI's in his first full year as a pro, wait until he is a little more seasoned, he is going to be dominant. Rodhames Liz got the win and the bounce back performance of the day goes to George 'Flat Breezey' Sherrill who picked up his 27th save. Series is split 1-1 now with two more to play. Danny Cabrera is pitching tonight, last time he pitched against the Royals he put up a complete game victory. Might be high hopes but look for him to be dominant tonight.
Now, last night I was lucky enought to see an advanced viewing of the movie "Hancock" staring Philly's own Will Smith. Now the papers weren't impressed by it, but I sure was. Extremely. It has everything a good movie should, humor, action, and drama. Its one of those movies that you go out and buy right when it comes out on DVD. Should make some money at the box office this weekend. Wow. On the Hoya Scale I give it 5 out of 5 Hoyas!
Now, last night I was lucky enought to see an advanced viewing of the movie "Hancock" staring Philly's own Will Smith. Now the papers weren't impressed by it, but I sure was. Extremely. It has everything a good movie should, humor, action, and drama. Its one of those movies that you go out and buy right when it comes out on DVD. Should make some money at the box office this weekend. Wow. On the Hoya Scale I give it 5 out of 5 Hoyas!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Old!...Me?
I started to get the sense I was old yesterday and today, not like retirement old, but I'm graduating college in a year, and possibly living on my own. With my own expenses and my own problems. I am a little freaked...I set up a savings account and start to save money, I went to subway because they have cheaper sandwiches than Wawa. I like the extra money I'm saving, its just weird because I'm not used to it.
I wonder what its like to be my age, or close, and have plenty of money, Adam Jones. If I ever get the chance I'll ask him a few questions on the subject and put the answers up here for anyone to see. I forget what they call that but I think it begins with an i...
I wonder what its like to be my age, or close, and have plenty of money, Adam Jones. If I ever get the chance I'll ask him a few questions on the subject and put the answers up here for anyone to see. I forget what they call that but I think it begins with an i...
Anybody have any Listerine?
Games like the one last night, where the Orioles blew a four run lead, leave a terrible taste in my mouth. Not only is our bullpen supposed to be our best attribute, it is supposed to be one of the best in the league. But hey Brian Burress and Jim Johnson pitched well. Twice in as many days have the Orioles had their opponent down to one out and given up a tying or game winning homerun, both by the second best closer in the league, George Sherrill. I dont want to talk about this that much, to upsetting.
I have come to notice a trend among my peers, there are three different type of Orioles fan in my generation. There are the Orioles-Ravens fans, baseball fans only, until the Ravens come to town. The National-Redskins fan, didn't care about baseball until the Nates came, but would go to see a game at Camden Yards. Then there are the hybrid fans, like myself, the Orioles-Redskins fans. Although I have found fewer and fewer of these brilliant sports loving people, I still think that, in my generation of course, these are the purest of fans. To young to remember the Senators, and to much love for baseball not to root for someone.
So out of proffesional ball for a second, 8th seeded "Da Earf Worms" will look to beat "Off Constantly" in the first playoff round of the Rockville mens summer league softball. I have to point at some highlights of the starting line-up. Behind the plate calling the game will be Pat Arkin, general of the feild, consistant bat, you cant ask for more. Patroling the outfield is Kevin, Pete K., Pete A., and capitan and fearless leader Terrance Leary. Good luck gentlemen.
I might come back later today if I have anything to say, but I might not.
I have come to notice a trend among my peers, there are three different type of Orioles fan in my generation. There are the Orioles-Ravens fans, baseball fans only, until the Ravens come to town. The National-Redskins fan, didn't care about baseball until the Nates came, but would go to see a game at Camden Yards. Then there are the hybrid fans, like myself, the Orioles-Redskins fans. Although I have found fewer and fewer of these brilliant sports loving people, I still think that, in my generation of course, these are the purest of fans. To young to remember the Senators, and to much love for baseball not to root for someone.
So out of proffesional ball for a second, 8th seeded "Da Earf Worms" will look to beat "Off Constantly" in the first playoff round of the Rockville mens summer league softball. I have to point at some highlights of the starting line-up. Behind the plate calling the game will be Pat Arkin, general of the feild, consistant bat, you cant ask for more. Patroling the outfield is Kevin, Pete K., Pete A., and capitan and fearless leader Terrance Leary. Good luck gentlemen.
I might come back later today if I have anything to say, but I might not.
Monday, June 30, 2008
First time in Mid-season
So today I start my blog, interesting timing right? Almost at the All-Star break, 14-weeks in, but there is not better time than the present. I'm going to jump right in to why I started this.
We droped 2 of 3 from the Nats, I like that they are trying to build a rivalry here, but stuff like that doesnt happen overnight. Although, growing up an O's fan, to see a bunch of people where I live say they are Nationals fans lit a little fire under me. I'm a sucker for the long term, the throwbacks, not switching around to the new and hip.
Today starts a four game series against the KC Royals, we took three of four earlier in the season, and although they tore it up during interleague play, I hope they realize who they are, and who they are playing, the AL again.
I'm going to keep this one short and just see how it looks. See you tomorrow.
We droped 2 of 3 from the Nats, I like that they are trying to build a rivalry here, but stuff like that doesnt happen overnight. Although, growing up an O's fan, to see a bunch of people where I live say they are Nationals fans lit a little fire under me. I'm a sucker for the long term, the throwbacks, not switching around to the new and hip.
Today starts a four game series against the KC Royals, we took three of four earlier in the season, and although they tore it up during interleague play, I hope they realize who they are, and who they are playing, the AL again.
I'm going to keep this one short and just see how it looks. See you tomorrow.
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