Quick Hits: Opening Day News and Stuff...

Although Opening Day was delayed a week from the traditional start date for the Orioles due to the Washington Nationals to the south of Baltimore, cold temperatures and wind could not damper fans’ spirit as they beat up on the American League Champions Detroit Tigers, 6-2 yesterday in front a sellout crowd.

The Yard was decked out in black and orange, and the Birds delivered yesterday. With a lot of fanfare, pomp and circumstance along with Future of Hall of Famer Cal Ripken throwing out the first pitch, starter Daniel Cabrera showed the world yesterday why he’s ready to move to next level and scare the hell out of batters facing him.

Daniel didn’t walk anyone and gave up 2 runs in a little over seven innings. Poised and in control, he shut the Tigers down with command and authority.

The O’s whacked around starter Chad Durbin, and the fun started when Kevin Millar hit his second homer of the year. As well, the Orioles added more runs in the third inning by playing small ball and taking advantage of their opportunities.

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Daniel Cabrera was nothing short of awesome yesterday, and all of us here in Oriole land hope it is a sign of things to come. Jeff Zrebiec has more on Daniel Cabrera’s game yesterday. The Baltimore Sun has a quick recap of the game. On that note, Brian Roberts is out of his slump, and Peter Schmuck is feeling good about the young arms so far.

On that note, the Orioles hope to win back fans with key additions and the development of their pitching staff.

Jorge Arangure has more on the game and Cabrera’s mastery yesterday.

Cal Ripken threw out the first pitch and got a rousing ovation yesterday from the capacity crowd. Although he’s well into retirement, Sun writer Rich Maese, no doubt understands Cal Ripken’s influence and he’s a reflection of the team’s glory days as well as the current problems.

Also, Cal Ripken is about to launch an 11-city tour to promote two new books, and his charitable foundation, named for his late father, is partnering with Major League Baseball's Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI). In addition, Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation will make an unspecified "seven-figure" donation in cash and equipment.

John Parrish made the team this season out of Spring Training, and is grateful, considering what he’s had to go through to get back to the big leagues.

Leo Mazzone is pumped and ready for 2007, and wants not to have a repeat of 2006 in what he deemed as ‘unacceptable’.

Although Opening Day was a combination of a tradition, a great game, and a festive party, not all fans are happy. The combination of 9 losing seasons, Peter Angelos, and bad play has some fans melancholy and upset.

The players were happy to see a packed house and support, which is a welcome to them considering the past few seasons. As well, the new players on the team appreciated it.

Jamie Walker is not holding back any punches against his old team this week.

The Baltimore Sun’s Candus Thompson has a great piece on Nicole Sherry, the head groundskeeper.

The always entertaining and never shy Kevin Millar made Opening Day one to remember as he borrowed a few dance steps from Ray Lewis; therefore, it perhaps inspired him to have a monster afternoon.

Opening Day was a boon for the Orioles and also businesses as well.