The Reality of the Situation

With Fan Fest this weekend, and with pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training in about a month, or less. How do you all feel about the progress that the Orioles have made in the off-season?

I know that the organization is - again - starting from scratch; however, I am not all that enthused with the job Dan Duquette has done so far. I know he's trying to look at the international markets and gauge what talent is out there, in addition to 'value' signings -- um, but perhaps most fans expected more. Really, the team needs another bat in the middle of the order and a veteran, *name* arm -- not 4A or journeyman types.

I do think he’s very much taking his time with his moves and is definitely evaluating the organization than making a move to just make a move.

For the most part, they moves that the Orioles have are very much underwhelming. I’m not sure how much the organization has in their coffers, or the revenue that MASN produces for the Orioles, but you’ve got to wonder why the checkbook was not open.

Duquette thinks that the Orioles can reach the .500 level – or inch above it. Um, I don’t think that is going to happen unless there is a serious overhaul with this team and the front office opens up the wallet big-time. Plus, the young talent – especially, the pitchers – would need to take a serious step forward and avoid the up-downs during a long season.

So far, I have not thought much of Duquette’s moves. It seems like he genuinely wants to see the organization succeed – for his sake and theirs. I do like that he’s going into the Far East and trying to find players of value who won’t break the bank. Plus, he’s retooling the front office and scouting departments; however, I do wish he would be more aggressive.

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