Phillies Make The Rays Uncomfortable, Take 2-1 Lead in World Series

It looks like no one in America is really watching this World Series; however, if you're missing it – you're missing some interesting baseball. The Phillies are now up 2-1 in the 2008 World Series as they beat the Rays, 5-4, thanks to a weak infield single – a dribbler along third bases – with the bases loaded by Carlos Ruiz that plated Eric Bruntlett.

The frame started as J.P. Howell hit Bruntlett, and then he was relieved of by Grant Balfour. Only a minute later, Balfour would throw a wild pitch and Bruntlett advanced to second. After two intentional walks to both Shane Victorino and Greg Dobbs, the game would end a few minutes later.

With the score tied at four, Evan Longoria tried in vain to scoop the ball and throw it home; but the ball sailed over Dioner Navarro's head and Bruntlett tapped home plate.

The matchup on Saturday featured the sometimes overly emotional 24-year old Matt Garza versus Jamie Moyer, who should at 45 years old be considered a living legend. The matchup did not look good on paper – in fact, I thought the Rays would take advantage of Moyer – however, the elder fellow showed why he was 16-7 and still effective in the big leagues.

If you counter Moyer with Matt Garza, who looked fidgety and never comfortable on the mound on Saturday – it's even more remarkable what he did. He went 6 1/3 innings and gave up five runs on three hits; meanwhile, Garza went six innings and gave up four runs – three of them solo home runs to Carlos Ruiz (second inning), Chase Utley (sixth), Ryan Howard (sixth) – but, J.P. Howell took the loss as he and the Rays just fell apart in the ninth inning.

Philadelphia took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning as Chase Utley plated Jimmy Rollins with a groundout; thereafter, in the next frame, Carl Crawford -- who'd gotten on base via a double, and then stole third – scored off a Gabe Gross sacrifice fly to tie things at one.

The Phillies took a 4-1 lead into the seventh inning, but the train came off the tracks thanks to bizzare a play – a missed call – that open things ups for Tampa. Carl Crawford reached a on a bunt single; however, it looked like he was out as Jamie Moyer mad an acrobatic throw from the dirt and it seemed the Ryan Howard caught the ball – with his bare hand! – before Crawford hit the bag, but umpire Tom Hallion called him safe.

The next batter, Dioner Navarro doubled; thereafter, Gross would plate Crawford with a groundout and then Navarro would be plated by Jason Bartlett.

Tampa tied the game at four in the eighth inning thanks to some aggressive base running by B.J. Upton. The Tampa center fielder reached on a infield single, and then promptly stole second and third. Upon stealing third, the ball thrown by the Phillies' Ruiz hit Upton in the back, and careened away from third base allowing him to score.

Last night's game showed why Tampa may lose – as it is not for a lack of talent – but because of their inexperience. Like I said prior, Garza looked uncomfortable and at times the team looked real shaky in the field.

Philadelphia has not been good, but lucky and if Tampa keeps giving them opportunities like they had in game three, they will win the World Series.

One more thing, boy did the Philadelphia fans go out of their way to make the Rays uncomfortable – from the silly song that they had the Tampa team run out in the pre-game celebrations to the fans calling Evan Longoria “Eva” – last night America got to see why they are the most infamous, crude, but passionate fans anywhere.

Loewen and the Jays

Upon reading today's Sun article on Adam Loewen signing with the Blue Jays, I don't think anyone can begrudge him.

I respected the kid because he was a bulldog on the mound and seemed to work hard; however, it looks like wanted for play for Toronto, simply because he is a Canadian and rooted for them growing up.

I'm sure a lot of fans and people will miss him in the organization, but he's got a hill to climb in order to transition from pitching to become a big league hitter.

"I don't think it's about money," MacPhail said. "The way it was explained to me, it's all about playing for his national team in Canada and it's not about terms or anything. The way it was explained to me is he grew up there and it's his lifelong dream to play for Toronto. I have no interest in having Baltimore become part of Canada. We're proud members of the United States, and there isn't much we can do about it."

It was assumed Loewen would re-sign with the Orioles -- until the Jays looked into getting him...

That apparently changed when Toronto came calling. Loewen said he and his representation told the Orioles there were "other offers on the table and they knew fully that there were other teams interested.

"It has been something I've been struggling with ever since I got put on waivers and the possibility presented itself," Loewen said. "[The Orioles] fully did what they had to do and I was aware of that. They did everything on their part that they could do to try to sign me back. I love playing in Baltimore and I loved the coaching staff. Even when I went to instructional league, the coaching staff was outstanding. There was no animosity at all. I just thought this was an opportunity that doesn't come along very often. It was tougher than I could say. I'm excited to be a Blue Jay, but I'll never forget my time in Baltimore."

Sports is a huge business, and no matter what we think, if Loewen struggled horribly -- he could have been released anyway. However, it looked like the Orioles were going to have him every chance in the world to succeed.

The ball was in Adam's court, but instead, he wanted to play for the Jays, and we shouldn't judge him. This move will be simply one the Orioles could afford to not get emotional about -- he was not going to help the team in 2008, 2009 or perhaps beyond.

I'll be rooting for him to make it back to the Big Leagues.

O's Lose To Jays; Digging Adam Jones

Well, could this be the downfall of the Baltimore Orioles that we all expected, or just a rough patch?

The Orioles started off plain awful – I mean awful. A horrific inning on part of Garrett Olson, bad defense and an impressive output the Blue Jays with two-out hits allowed the Jays to beat Baltimore, 9-8.

Despite the bad inning in the fourth frame, Baltimore came back from a five run deficit, with an aggressive showing in the latter half of the game.

Nick Markakis homered and scored three runs in a three-hit performance while Adam Jones added a three-run homer for Baltimore – his first since June; however, the Oriole rally came up short.

Do you guys think the young pitching along with the bullpen are starting to wilt because of the long season?

As well, one more thing I’d love to ask, what do you all think of development of Adam Jones? He had some growing pains at the start of the year, especially at the plate, but he’s coming along just fine. His average is up, and he’s seemed to at least cut down on his strikeouts.

I like the kid, and personally, I can tell he’s improving and is heeding the advice of all his coaches and staff. At the end of the day, you can’t be anything but impressed. When he plays in center, you feel like the kid is a 10-year veteran, not a second year player.

Despite his numbers perhaps not being all that impressive (perhaps average), he’s learning the game fairly quickly at this venture, and his upward climb reminds me a lot of what Markakis had to go through in his first season.

It’s his inexperience that is hindering him his point. Jones has had less than 500 at bats in MLB and his numbers so far shows that he gets the game, but is still definitely learning at this level.

The experts say you need at least 1000-1500 at-bats to determine a player’s abilities at the plate. He’ll be fine, and at this point, we should be all be impressed that he’s worked himself up to a .281 average on July 10th.

We should not worry, he’ll be someone who’ll grow on us. Boy, once he gets better at recognizing pitches at the plate, he’ll start crushing the ball on a more occasional basis.

Thanks Armando! O's Win Two In A Row in Canada...

Thanks for the Present, Armando! Well, after a wretched series with the Boston Red Sox, the Orioles have won 3 out of their last 5; thus, continued the winning last night in Toronto, 6-5.

The offense continued its hot streak thanks to a big inning in the eighth. Adam Jones and Melvin Mora each hit a two-run home in the frame, and Kevin Millar belted a solo homer. As well, Nick Markakis went 4- for-4 with a double, run batted in and a run scored while Brian Roberts had two hits and scored a run.

Dennis Sarfate (3-1) only needed two pitches to earn the win in relief of Brian Burres, who allowed three runs on five hits in 4 1/3 innings. George Sherrill worked the ninth for his 21st save.

Shaun Marcum’s nice start went out the window as he held the Orioles to one run on seven hits in seven-plus frames; however, Brian Tallet and Armando Benitez – ah, that good old friend of ours who contributed many memorable moments in Oriole folklore – allowed the game to get out of hand!

Thanks again for the gift, Mr. Benitez. Too bad you were DFA’ed after the game.

And the Orioles won today 9-3, thanks to the offense busting out on A.J. Burnett, who usually dominates the Birds. Although the ninth inning got a little scary thanks to a few errors, and Trachsel on the mound, the troops rallied to finally win a quality start for Jeremy Guthrie.

Olson Wins Number Five: O's Beat Twins, 3-2; The Jays On Tap...

In light of what I said about two weeks about the first part of June being very important and telling as to where the Orioles would stand for the rest of the season -- right now, needless to say -- they're doing fine.

With a record of 29-30, and still in last place in the AL East, the Orioles earned a very important series victory on Thursday as both Adam Jones homered, and Nick Markakis added a two-run shot as Baltimore beat Minnesota, 3-2.

Keeping in line of the growth of this in 2008, rookie Garrett Olson won his fifth game as he allowed two runs and eight hits through 6 1/3 innings in Baltimore's third win in four games. Although he got into trouble in the first part of the game, through guts and guile, he was able to hold off the Twins.

George Sherrill threw a scoreless ninth for his 20th save of the season.

The Baltimore Orioles next counter against a tough Toronto team that's 32-30 on the season and are fighting for a top spot in the AL East.

Matchups:

Tonight: Orioles' Brian Burres (4-5, 4.87) vs. Shaun Marcum (5-3, 2.63)
Saturday: Jeremy Guthrie (2-6, 3.58) vs. A.J. Burnett (5-5, 4.32)
Sunday: Radhames Liz (1-0, 3.38) vs. Roy Halladay (7-5, 2.94)

The Jays' strength this season as in the past has been their starting corps, and the Orioles will have it tough this series. Although the Orioles had a very respectable showing in Minnesota, they go up against a great young arm in Marcum on Friday, Burnett who has seemingly owned Baltimore on Saturday, and Halladay -- one of the best in the game -- on Sunday.

Needless to say, the offense needs to be on their game, and despite the Jays only being over two games above .500 along with losers of two in a row, Baltimore has a task on it's hands. Despite the Toronto offense being with Vernon Wells and a lack of power in their lineup, they will be a formidable challenge.

The good news is that the Baltimore offense has picked within the last week, and Adam Jones is starting to come around and show the promise that everyone in baseball has been raving about. As well, Brian Roberts and Nick Markakis have come out their slumps to contribute.

Now, the rest of the team needs to pick it up.

Looking Back; The AL East - Predictions and Reflections

Throughout the off-season, I'm going to take a look at what I have said during the course of season and some predictions I made before play started in 2007.

Today, it's the AL East's Turn as I did the AL West several weeks ago...



Boston Red Sox (96-66), World Champions:

This is what I said: After a season of spending a few bucks to strengthen the team, New England and Red Sox Nation will be waiting for the 2007 season with great anxiety and anticipation. It’s a forgone conclusion with the additions and the mainstays that the team will be competitive and Fenway will be rocking for Ortiz’s exploits and dancing when “Sweet Caroline” blazes.

Will this season get them into the playoffs and more importantly, dethrone the hated New York Yankees from supremacy in the American League East? Will the disappointment of 2006 end up in 2007 to be another 2004?

Only time will tell.

My Take Now: As we all know, the Red Sox took it at all in 2007 and it was no surprise; however, I did not have them taking the division. The pitching was strong throughout the season, and the young guns; alas, Schilling, an old hand, came through in the playoffs.

The Red Sox were strong from top to bottom, and the emergence of youngsters such as Ellsbury, Pedroia, Lester, Papelbon all came through and showed they could play on the highest stage. Plus, with a minor stock full with talent and veterans on the roster Ortiz, Beckett, Vartiek, and Ramirez around perhaps for another year, the Red Sox should be one of the best, if not the best team in baseball.

The only question is will the Sox re-sign Lowell, and bypass A-Rod? From my point of view, it’s a forgone conclusion – Lowell is the perfect fit for that team and he should be re-signed. Schilling may be gone, but he was an integral part in the Sox being champs twice in a 4-year period.



New York Yankees:

What I said: The Yankee brass and their fans expect big things from their players in 2007. With the highest payroll in the game comes huge and perhaps sometimes insane expectations, but the players in Bronx know now it’s the only way it can be.

Cashman now it seems has the power wants and has learned to not mortgage the future for the present. The Yankees should be the favorites once again to the win the East, but getting to the World Series is much easier said than done.

My Take Now: The Yankees as we all know are in a period of flux. Despite their amazing come back to itch into the playoffs, they have many weaknesses that were exposed; therefore, their period of dominance may come to end sooner rather than later.

In spite of the last statement, the New York still is better than ¾ of the teams in baseball, but it all depends on what happens in the off-season. If the Yankees don’t re-sign A-Rod in free agency, it will be hard to find someone to fill that big offensive hole.

The starting pitching looked average at best, but the emergence of youngsters such as Phil Hughes, Ian Kennedy and Joba Chamberlain not only gave the Yankees a fighting chance, but perhaps helped them improve in the future. Add a prolific offense that beat up on mediocre pitching, the Yankees were able storm back.

Jeter had a solid season, as did Rivera, Cano, and Matsui; meanwhile, A-Rod and Posada has career years. Sadly, Damon and Giambi struggled with injuries leading them to career lows.

Wang was strong, but Mussina struggled at times and has started looking his age now.

Torre perhaps did his best managing ever with the team in 2007; however, with him being gone, will Joe Girardi keep the winning tradition in New York?

In addition, what role will the Steinbrennber brothers have in the ownership saga? Will the Yankees depend on young talent or return to their free spending ways?



Toronto Blue Jays:

What I Said:The Blue Jays in 2007 are primed to take on the powerhouse rival Yankees and Red Sox after a successful 2006 campaign. While the Blue Jays have a great offense, and deep bullpen, the pitching situation will be the deciding factor whether the team becomes a contender or regresses. With the improvements and additions that both the Yankees and Red Sox made, the Blue Jays have a difficult task ahead of them in 2007.

My Take Now: The Blue Jays finished where I expected them to finish. Even though the Blue Jays looked to have a relatively strong offense on paper, injuries derailed the team north of the border.

The pitching was shaky, and Roy Halladay’s absence during a portion of the season pretty much added to the problems they faced. Even though they finished with a respectable record, they faced an uphill climb from the onset with the powerhouse Yankees and Red Sox ahead of them.

It will be seen what the Blue Jays do in the off-season, but they look like they will have a good squad in 2008.




Baltimore Orioles:

What I Said: In the end, the Orioles need to decide whether they want to compete or rebuild. On paper, they look slightly better than what their 70-92 record indicates, but in my eyes, it looked like a lot of the players were not trying and accepted the way things were.

However, I think we are quite a bit away from contending, but if all goes well a .500 record is attainable. There needs to be a plan with the organization, whether to rebuild around Tejada, and get the bats we need, or perhaps consider trading our strongest chips, outside Bedard, Cabrera, Markakis and Loewen and see if we can get young talent under our control to compete perhaps in ’09 or ’10. The team looks to be greatly improved on paper, but as of now, we are no where near the Yankees, Red Sox or Blue Jays in terms of talent. We’ll have to see how the young pitching develops and if Markakis turns into the next big thing.

If competing and contending ever becomes palatable again here in Baltimore for the Orioles, there are more changes to be needed with the makeup of this team.

My Take Now: Looking back at these paragraphs nearly seven, eight months later, I could not see at the time how right I was an Orioles’ fan. Well, we finished with a worse record than in 2006, and things seem to not have not gotten better -- in fact, they are far worse.

I'm not going to repeat the problems with the team, but we know that Bedard has emerged as an ace for the team, and Guthrie was a diamond in the rough. Adam Loewen got hurt, and Cabrera, well, he's not improved.

The expensive bullpen was a bust, and the offense outside of Tejada, Markakis and Roberts was mediocre at best. There is major turnover in the staff, and front office, plus there will be more moves to come in terms of player personnel.

Baltimore will need to rebuild, there’s no choice now.



Tampa Bay Devil Rays:

What I Said: For the near future, it does not look like the Devil Rays will have much of a shot at contending in the well-stacked American League East, but the team has several building blocks to improve for years to come.

It looks like the team is making progress in terms of being a competitive team under new ownership, but as Tampa is a small market team, the new few years may also be growing pain, as they will have to build from within and develop talent than obviously improve on the free agent market.

The young core of the team may surprise, but it may be last place of for the Rays again in ’07 in the AL East.

My Take Now: It was another last place finish in 2007 for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays; however, if I were a direct competitor of theirs in the AL East, I’d keep my eye on this team.

In light of their record, Tampa has a lot of promise as an organization and on the field. The offense looks to be solid with Crawford at the top of order, along with the emergence of B.J. Upton, Delmon Young, and blue-chip prospects in the minors.

If the Devil Rays could find two more top-flight young or veteran pitchers, along with a stronger bullpen, the days of them finishing the second division could be coming sooner rather than later.

Photo Gallery: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Baltimore Orioles; September, 27th, 2007

Toronto Blue Jays vs. Baltimore Orioles; September 27, 2007

Orioles Beat Blue Jays, 8-5; The Rundown and More O's Drug Stench...

The Orioles won yesterday against the Toronto Blue Jays, 8-5 as the kids from the farm contributed in a huge way. With the win yesterday, Baltimore avoided the sweep by Toronto.

Jeremy Guthrie came back to pitch and close out the season, which I give him major props for doing so. He was on a pitch count due to his injury; however, he was decent as he went 5 innings and gave up runs (but Jay Payton made some miscues in the field that nearly cost the O’s early).

Luis Hernandez, J.R. House and Jay Payton all homered for the O’s.

Jim Hoey got the win last night.

Sorry, I have training today, so there will not be much in terms of analysis of the team or the game last night.

***

The Baltimore Sun has a recap of the game, as the Baltimore Examiner, Orioles Hangout, & Washington Post.

Heathir Irvin of Oriole Magic has a preview of the final series of the year.

Meanwhile, Jamie Walker could see less action in ’08, as will Chad Bradford. Simply put, both men are specialists and they lose their effectiveness if they are over exposed. The duo appeared in way too many games because of the thinning of the pitching staff. It is critical that this changes next season.

Roch Kubatko has his thoughts of last’s night game, along with some stuff that is taking place at the Yard for “Fan Appreciation Weekend”.

Like I have said time and time again, expect big changes this offseason. Dave Trembley has alluded to some of it, but the lack of response or words by Andy MacPhail publicly just says that we all expect a lot to happen in the winter.

***

As the whole steroid era in sports and the subsequent investigations rear their ugly head, the Baltimore Sun today has a huge article about the Orioles and their link to it. Most fans know the story of Rafael Palmeiro, Jay Gibbons, Jason Grimsley and Davis Segui, and the Sun’s Dan Connolly interviews former and current Oriole players and front office members about the issue.

Personally, I don’t know if there’s a clique of guys on the staff who meet up and chat about drugs; however, I don’t think there is.

I just think that the use of PED’s in sports is a personal thing, done out of the view of the locker room and public eyes. Like I have said before, with the amount of money being offered today in sports, the need to stay employed, and just basic human nature – there will always be a segment of guys who will do what they need to do to get ahead.

Do I agree with PED use and cheating, of course not – however, it is what it is. I am sure that over time, there will be more names unleashed and exposed. Reputations and careers may be ruined, but for right now, after one serves a punishment, they can come back and play.

In some cases, like Jason Giambi, if they are still productive, no one cares and things go back to the way they were.

I don’t think the Orioles condone or illicit a culture of drug use, but it is alarming that key names keep popping up in the whole debate and it is not helping the team’s image.

Zambrano Sucks It Up, Orioles Lose 8-5 to the Jays

It's too bad that the Orioles had to play a nine inning game, because if it was an eight inning game, they would have won hands down.

Too bad reality dictated otherwise.

The Orioles in need of pitching, turned to vagabond hurler Victor Zambrano to save the day and hopefully give the team a quality based on what they have seen from him.

Well, he was nothing short of awful.

They lost the game 8-5, thanks to Zambrano being flat out awful as he gave up eight runs in 2/3 of an inning; however, if you can manage a moral victory, the bullpen kept the Blue Jays off the board for the rest of the game. Victor looked like a human pinata last night, as the Blue Jays batted around and sent 13 men to the plate.

If it were not for an amazing catch by a motivated Jay Payton, things could have been worse - much worse.

The Baltimore offense put in a valiant effort to come back from disaster, as they scored five runs, but there was too big of a hole dug.

The two teams play again on Thursday night, and then the Spankees comes into town. At this point, with a Tampa Bay offense which has picked, the Orioles will need to make something of this weekend, or they will possibly finish in last place in the AL East

***

The Baltimore Sun has a recap of the ugly details from last night, as does Orioles Hangout, Orioles MLB site, Baltimore Examiner, & Washington Post.

Roch Kubatko tells it like it is in his blog, Roch Around the Clock and Bill Ordine has his thoughts from last night.

Corey Patterson is more than likely done for the season -- too bad. He came back strong in the second half and if you would have asked me before July, I would have said send him on his way. However, he's a good guy, and great defensive outfielder, but Tike Redman is doing the job decently and may be a much cheaper alternative than Patterson in the off-season.

Trembley Calling Out His Hurlers, O's Lose to the Jays, 11-4; The Rundown...

As we all well know, the last month and half has been nothing short of horrific as the Orioles have only 67 wins on the season; therefore, they have a good shot to finish worse than they did in 2006.

They’ve only won 9 out of their last 34 games; thus, being in the final week of the season, everyone within the organization and fans are looking towards 2008.

In the Baltimore Sun this morning, manager Dave Trembley said a few words that could change the course of the off-season. Unless you have been under a rock, the thin Oriole pitching has been exploited thanks to key injuries to the staff. Erik Bedard, Kris Benson, Jaret Wright, Adam Loewen, Chris Ray, Danys Baez, and most recently Jeremy Guthrie have spent time on the shelf.

Now, the Oriole manager made this proclamation last night after the loss to the Blue Jays:

“The roll call for next season includes starters Erik Bedard, Jeremy Guthrie and Adam Loewen. Trembley mentioned Burres in a group with relievers Jamie Walker and Chad Bradford.

“Other than that,” he said, “I think its pretty open.” Trembley later included Daniel Cabrera, who has given the team innings but not much more.

“We’re not going to win here or be able to compete here just because somebody gives you innings. They’re going to have to be successful. They’re going to have to go out there and give you a chance to win.

There becomes a point in time where potential goes out the window. It’s results now. Results have to get better,” Trembley said.

“That’s prospect status. And prospect status should be over in your third or fourth year in the big leagues. You should be producing. You should be producing and helping the team to win.”

Notice Trembley did not say Daniel Cabrera’s name initially. I guess some guys here in the organization need a fire lit underneath them as seemingly just because you might have a jersey on, your job is guaranteed.

Take note of last night, or perhaps four nights of the week with this team. It’s simple, the rotation is thin, pitchers cannot hit their spots, and it looks like some guys are just throwing rather than pitching.

The numbers don’t lie, and the game against the Jays speaks for itself. We are no longer losing one run games thanks to a bad bullpen, we are being blown out consistently because our pitchers lack basic command, confidence and are just simply not getting the job done.

Well, I don’t know if Trembley said what he did to rile up the corps, but after his experience being hired as manager of the Orioles, I’d be pissed off to.

So, we may not change a decade of losing over night, but last night the Oriole manager made one thing certain — it looks like the guys on the team, most notably, the pitching staff will be held accountable to a degree as to how they perform on the field.

I, for one am glad to see it, and it’s a good thing for Trembley to have made his thoughts public.
I don’t know if fans are reassured; however, at least he’s trying.

Look forward to my season in review next week, it will not be for the faint of heart and perhaps will enlighten as well upset.

It is what it is.

***

Oh, by the way, the Baltimore Orioles lost to the Toronto Blue Jays, 11-4 last night. Frank Thomas beat us around, homered; Buress was ineffective, the bullpen once again made people want to put paper bags over their heads - ugh, the humanity.

Four more games.

The Baltimore Sun has a recap of the game, as does the Baltimore Examiner, Washington Post, Orioles Hangout and the Orioles MLB site.

Danys Baez is out for next year - oh joy and will most likely have surgery. Getting paid for doing nothing and just being horrible, eh? I wish Major League Baseball contracts mirrored what we people get in the real world.

I know Danyz Baez is hurt, but he getting $12 million plus for 2 years of not doing his job properly and sucking is analagous to the CEO of a company having no clue what to do in his job capacity, and then being exposed as a complete alcoholic, but the able to keep his job if he goes to rehab; meanwhile, losing money for the company hand over fist.

I just know, I'd love the paycheck. Danys has been the object of much scorn here, and while it's been unfair and he might have been doing the job to the best of his ability; however, he's been nothing but a disappointment -- an expensive one!

The Youngsters and the 'Pen Come Through: Orioles Defeat Blue Jays, 8-6

Not much has gone right for the Orioles in the past month; however, they were able to get a series win in Toronto. At this point of the season, the young guys are trying to make a name for themselves, and on Sunday, one won the game for the team.

On Sunday, Baltimore beat the Blue Jays, 8-6, in the 12^th inning thanks to single by Scott Moore. Alas, the bullpen came up strong on Sunday, as the relief core kept the Orioles in the game and delivered perhaps one of their best performances of the past few months.

On top of the win, Nick Markakis, who is having a solid year, passed a couple of milestones. First, he hit his 20^th home run and second, he drove in his 100^th RBI, both tops on the team.

The Orioles take on the New York Yankees in the Bronx this week for a tough three game series.

***

The Baltimore Sun has a recap of the game, as does the Baltimore Examiner, Oriole Magic and the Orioles MLB site. Roch Kubatko has his thoughts on yesterday’s game.

Well, Orioles first base coach Sam Mejias will not be coming back to the organization and much of it may be due to the disarray of the team.

The Weekend: O's Win on Friday, Lose on Saturday...

I am at RFK getting ready to cover the Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals for the DC Sports Box, but right now I am watching the New York Yankees take on the Boston Red Sox on FOX right now.

Granted, I have done a lot, and I mean a lot of moaning and bitching online and on various podcasts about the inordinate and excessive amount of coverage to when these two teams meet up; however, so far it has been great theater.

The Oriole had a great win last night; however, this afternoon it was a little more of what we all have been seeing this past month – bad pitching and lackluster baseball.

Buress looked great on Friday; however, Birkins was horrible today and might be exiled to the ‘pen.

They lost 8-3 to the Blue Jays up in Toronto.

Kurt Birkins gave up six runs in the first inning and didn’t get any outs; meanwhile, Victor Zambrano throws four excellent innings on his way back to the majors. Nick Markakis made a huge error which allowed two Jays to score in the seventh inning.

I’d expect to see him start a few times before the season is out.

Freddie Bynum looked good in the field, but otherwise, it seemed to be the same old, same old with this team.

***

The Baltimore Sun has a recap of the game, as does the Baltimore Examiner, Orioles MLB site, Washington Post, and Orioles Hangout.

Roch Kubatko has more opinions on today’s game and events of last night…

Well, even more bad news (um, it could be good news), Danys Baez may be out the rest of ’07 and perhaps longer due to a partial tear in his right shoulder.

There’s more on the Baez news from the orioles.com; alas, looking back, the decision to sign this guy may be one the Orioles remember for a long time and he might be grouped in with David Segui, Glenn Davis, Marty Cardova, & Omar Bell as some of the worst acquisitions made by the team – ever.

The Orioles have had a lot of oblique injuries…

In light of Miguel Tejada’s comments from the other day, he just wants to win and play. In his defense (ok, aside from his play on the field), he’s done his part at the plate, now the Orioles need to develop or surround him with the right talent.

Amazing Erik Does It Again: O's Beat Rangers 6-2, the Rundown...

Erik Bedard is the man.

He's described a shy, but a great teammate; however, he's seen as a bit anti-social and ornery in the local and national media.

Despite it all, he can pitch.

Having a close-up view of the action behind home, as I was four rows back, (I got complimentary tickets thanks to a good friend), I got to see the wizardry of Erik Bedard in a way I have never witnessed before.

He helped the O's cruise to a 6-2 victory last night over the Rangers.

On Tuesday night, in front of a crowd that could not have numbered more than seven thousand due to weather, Erik Bedard struck out 11 over seven innings to win his ninth straight decision. As well, he tied the team record last night with his 218th strikeout of the season, and walked none.

Folks, if you have not seen him pitch, do so before the year is out.

Miguel Tejada and Aubrey Huff hit home runs off the woeful Ranger pitching.

As well, Sammy Sosa returned to Baltimore, and was he ever booed bad.

***

The Baltimore Examiner, Washington Post, Orioles Hangout, & Oriole Magic!

Roch Kubtako has his thoughts of last night, as does Bill Ordine of the O, by the Way Blog.

Dave Trembley has now been hired as the manager of the Baltimore Orioles for 2008. The man has more than proven himself with the Orioles improved play and leadership.

Spencer Fordin of the Orioles MLB site has more news of Trembley hiring.

Rick Maese of the Sun is happy with the hiring of Trembley, but shows a little skepticism as the team goes into September, a month where the Orioles have traditionally fell on their face.

Kevin Cowherd, in a great article in the Sun, sums up "Wild" Bill's life and influence on the community as an O's fan and how his passion is pretty much non-existent at Camden Yards.

Surprise, surprise: Former Oriole, Sammy Sosa considered his 2005 season in Baltimore a mess. You don't say Sammy, eh?

The Orioles MLB site has a profile on Garrett Olson and his life in the majors so far.

Guthrie Pitches a Gem, But O's Lose Late in Extra Innings 3-2; the Rundown

On Sunday, the Orioles played hard; however, they lost to the Toronto Blue Jays, 3-2, in the bottom of the tenth inning thanks to a Aaron Hill sacrifice fly.

The match-up yesterday had our own Jeremy Guthrie take on one of the best hurlers in the game, Roy Halladay.

Guthrie pitched 8 strong innings, and only gave up two runs on three hits. He walked none while striking out 6; meanwhile, perennial Cy Young candidate Halladay went nine innings, also gave up two runs on six hits and struck out five.

Brian Roberts and Kevin Millar drove in runs for the Birds.

The Orioles could have possibly rallied in the tenth inning, but J.R. House, who came in as a pinch hitter singled, but got picked off of second base after he took to big a curve around first base.

Chad Braford took the loss for the Orioles.

We have a ten-game homestand where the Rangers, Twins and the Devil Rays come to the Yard.

***

The Baltimore Examiner, Washington Post, Orioles MLB site, & Orioles Hangout have a recap of last night's game.

The Orioles are glad that Matt Wieters was signed, and he serves as a shot in the arm for the franchise which has been moribund for the past decade. The front office brass were afraid that he was not going to be signed...

Roch Kubatko is his blog has thoughts on J.R. House, his big blunder yesterday and if he'll be on the roster this week. Also, the O, By the Way Blog has thoughts on the game yesterday, Bedard, Santana and other things...

With Chris Ray on the shelf, Danys Baez will be the closer...

Kevin Millar extended his streak of consecutive games reaching base in the 9th inning on Sunday. The streak is at 46, and it is the longest in the majors this season.

Matt Palmer and Jon Gallo take a look at the "5 Most Despised Sports Figures in Baltimore History", and it's no surprise that Peter Angelos made the list. However, he's not number on the list - that honor belongs to Bob Irsay, former owner of the Colts.

We all lamented a few weeks ago that Cal Ripken may be the last Oriole Hall of Famer; however, the famous O's mascot, "the Bird" is getting a shot at a Hall of Fame -- um, the Mascot Hall of Fame...

Finally, sadly an O's fan got roughed up in the Yankee Series a few weeks ago outside the stadium, and it has dampered his love for the black and orange. From what I read, the police response was abhorrent and it's too bad that he had to go through all of this.

O's Win 5-3 North of the Border This Afternoon...

Afternoon everyone! Well, our boys in black and orange won today in Toronto, 5-3 after losing last night with Olson on the mound.

Steve Trachsel, who has been inconsistent won today and he had a lot of help from call-up J.R. House who homered.

Jim Hoey looked good as he pitched a perfect 8th inning, and also bailed out Trachsel in the 7th.

Danys Baez pitched in the 9th inning for the save.

Tike Redman had a good day, as he drove in three tuns, while Brian Roberts and J.R. House each drove in a run.

***

The Baltimore Sun has a recap of today's game as does the Examiner,

With the Weiters' deal, could this be the beginning of a new relationship between Scott Boras and Peter Angelos? Maybe, or maybe not, and Dan Connolly of the Sun looks the two men.

Sadly, as we found out on Friday, Chris Ray may be out until 2009. There's more news on the injury from the Baltimore Examiner, Washington Post,

With Ray out, Danys Baez will take over the closing duties.

Meanwhile, Roch Kubatko reports that Matt Weiters will not be in Baltimore until Thursday...

Baltimore Sun columnist believes that along with Angelos' mis-management with the Baltimore Orioles, the organization has had some real bad luck in the past decade.

Quick Hits: The Game Last Night – More of the Same; Orioles Lose 5-4 to the Jays in 10…

Well, last night the same story repeated itself. There’s no point in going over the game, as it has become a recurring theme.

It seems like with the Orioles; the more things change, the more they stay the same.

The bullpen came in to hold the lead, and keep the game in order.

That did not happen last night.

Sadly, the Orioles lost to the Blue Jays 5-4 in ten innings as Danys Baez came into the game and served up yet another game winning home run, this time to Alex Rios. After the homerun, the Orioles fans let out their frustrations – with boos.

Baez was in the game because Perlozzo somehow could not get extra use out of his relievers (he used four), as Bradford was unavailable; (however, where was Todd Williams?)

At this point, Baez should only come into the games during blowouts, or when there’s absolutely no option. Considering he’s signed with the team for another three years, perhaps send him down to the minors (if he’ll agree) and get himself straight in a low pressure environment.

Folks, he’s cost us several games this year and we’re in the point of the season where the team cannot afford to throw away any games, or it will be over by June.

By then, it may be a long, long, hot summer.

Furthermore, the bullpen has lost its effectiveness, as it cannot hold leads in games. I respect Jim Duquette for trying to rebuild the bullpen, but it is usually not a good idea to overspend for relievers.

On a positive note, Miguel Tejada hit a three run homer, his third of the year and first in well over 100 at bats. Nick Markakis drove in the other run for the Orioles.

Jeremy Guthrie was solid last night as he went seven strong innings and gave up 3 runs. It’s too bad the lead could not have been held for him to earn a win.

As well, Frank Thomas hit his 493^rd homer – tying Lou Gehrig.

Next, the pesky A’s come into town and hopefully the Orioles can get themselves in gear.

***

The Baltimore Sun’s Jeff Zrebeic has a recap of the events last night, as does the Baltimore Examiner and Washington Post.

Adam Loewen may come back soon, at least a lot sooner than I ever expected if the results of his test come back positive on his arm. He’s got the attitude and outlook of a bulldog, and he’s a competitor. Let’s hope he’s back soon, although if he’s not 100%, he should not rush it.

Baltimore Sun blogger Roch Kubatko has his thoughts from last night in his excellent blog, and O, By the Way by Bill Ordine has his take on the matter and other things too.

Quick Hits: O's Beat the Jays 5-2 Last Night; The Rundown

The Orioles got a much needed win last night at the Yard as Steve Trachsel once again had another quality outing, giving up 3 runs in 6 innings pitched. Sam Perlozzo last night shifted around the batting order to get better results last night, and maybe it worked.

Perhaps the result last night gave the embattled manager a break from the gloom and doom of the past few weeks.

Red-hot Brian Roberts went 3 for 3, and got his average above .300.

The bullpen held the lead, and the team was able to finally win by a score of 5-2.

The O’s won by small ball, and speed as Corey Patterson stole home.

I’m not going to do an extended recap just because I have been so busy today. For those of you interested, I'll have my photos of Kevin Millar and a quick report on the event at the ESPN Zone later on this afternoon when I have more time to myself.

It was a cool hour to have been a part of at the ESPN Zone in the Inner Harbor. For everything going on with the team right now, Kevin Millar is one positive guy, no doubt a team player, and his attitude is very much well needed in the clubhouse.

***

The Baltimore Sun has a recap of the game last night, as does the Baltimore Examiner and Washington Post. The O, By the Way blog has a recap of last night’s game and erstwhile blogger, Rock Kubatko gives his two cents as well.

Columnist David Steele of the Baltimore Sun has a piece a tad critical of Miguel Tejada, as he is suffering through a power outage and really not helping drive in runs. Miguel’s average may still be above .300, but he’s being paid an exorbitant salary to produce and he’s not doing so. He’s been taking extended batting practice, as well as working with a pitching machine, so it’s not like he’s not putting forth an effort to improve.

Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post has an article as well about his lack of power, and as we all know, Miguel Tejada is ever so vital to the O’s offense, and his bat needs to produce.

Spencer Fordin also has a piece on Miguel Tejada.

The Toronto Blue Jays were not happy with Daniel Cabrera on Tuesday, as he hit Troy Glaus during a pivotal really for the team, and on Wednesday night he was called into Sam Perlozzo’s office. Cabrera says he didn’t do it on purpose, and just missed his location.

The Baltimore Sun has a Q&A, this time with Jeremy Guthrie and the topic is about Sam Perlozzo.

In light of the bad news in Oriole-land of late, a group of Orioles that included Brian Roberts, Jay Gibbons, Adam Loewen, Melvin Mora and Corey Patterson participated in the "Buses for Baseball" event and entertained a group of children with cancer from various local hospitals at the Yard last night. They watched batting practice and spent time with their heroes; therefore, afterwards, they took in a great night of baseball.

The Game Last Night, A Broken Record: Quick Hits - The Orioles Lose A Close One 6-4 to the Blue Jays, the Rundown and Wither Sam Perlozzo...

The Toronto Blue Jays picked up where they ended last week with the Orioles – yet, another win.

In front of a very sparse crowd, the Orioles lost to the Blue Jays 6-4 as Daniel Cabrera was ineffective, considering he was relatively solid all throughout his starts this season.

After giving up 2 runs in the first four innings, Daniel became unglued as he gave up 4 runs in the fifth inning as Alex Rios, Lyle Overbay, Vernon Wells drove in runs and Cabrers dropped a ball that allowed Jason Phillips to score.

Brian Roberts hit his second homer of the year, and brought the score to 6-4, but the Orioles were not able to muster up any more offense.

Once again, A.J. Burnett had the Orioles’ number as he struck out 8 out a little more than 6 innings.

For the Orioles, Aubrey Huff and Melvin Mora drove in a run each in the loss.

**

The Baltimore Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec has a recap of the game last night, as does the Baltimore Examiner and Orioles MLB site.

Although it seems like the vast majority of Orioles fans want Perlozzo gone, you have to feel bad for the guy and wonder if there’s more at play with the situation. Thus, yesterday, Sam Perlozzo answered his critics and showed a little fire about his situation towards the media. He’s not concerned about his job (though I’d imagine the status would bother him from day to day), and wants to just go out and do things the best he can.

If I were him, I’d do the same thing; just fend of the rumors, the doomsday predictions and do my job.

However, the lack of statements of support from his own players, the front office and those high up in the organization is not good. From the looks of it, he may be series to series, week to week or month to month in terms of his job security.

Silence in this situation is not good.

There’s more on the situation from Adam Kilgore & Spencer Fordin from the Orioles.com.

Roch Kubatko has a great entry in his blog today about the latest with the Orioles including the loss, Adam Loewen and Miguel Tejada. As well, the O, by the Way blog has more on the game last night and on the status of Sam Perlozzo.

According to Adam Kilgore, Corey Patterson is benched because of his current struggles at the plate as of late.

If and when Miguel Tejada takes a day off from the grind of baseball, it will be up to him at the moment, not the manager.

The Baltimore Sun has a question with Erik Bedard about how the ball flies out of Camden Yards at certain times of the year, especially summer.

If you have a moment, read Jeff Zrebeic’s story of Miguel Tejada’s trip to the Hall of Fame on Monday. As well, in the piece there’s news on Corey Patterson, and Danys Baez.

The Game Last Night, A Broken Record: Quick Hits - The Orioles Lose A Close One 2-1 to the Blue Jays

Once again, the Baltimore Orioles lost yet another close game, this time at the hands of veteran A.J Burnett.

The Orioles were only able to muster three hits, one them a solo homer by Kevin Millar. However, A.J. Burnett looked electric as he struck out 10 with his amazing arsenal. With a little help from second baseman, Aaron Hill, the Blue Jays were able to reign supreme.

Yet, another Oriole pitcher had a quality outing, as Brian Burres gave up two runs and seven hits, walked one and struck out six in five-plus innings.

The Oriole offense was anemic (again) and were stymied by Burnett all night long.

What should have been a soft patch in the schedule for the Birds had turned out to be a struggle where the offense can not get going at all, and there just seems to be a general outage.

The Oriole pitching has held up and delivered, but the bats are dead. Like I said last night, the team can not (and I mean can not) underestimate the Nationals, who are on a hot streak and their pitching has been their source of strength. The Birds may the superior talent on paper, but the Nats' are playing with a purpose -- to finish respectable, and with 2 wins already over the hot Braves, Sam should honestly treat the Boys from DC with a lot of respect.

Remember, we all assumed that the Orioles would have taken the series from the Blue Jays, with all their injuries.

That was not the case.

Although their record and how they look on paper does not indicate how they have played of late, the Nationals have a lot of hunger and it looks like the franchise player, Ryan Zimmerman is starting to really heat up and drive in the runs.

Swept Away -- Jays Sweep the Orioles, Now the Losing Streak at 5 in a Row...

Well, we have been swept by the Toronto Blue Jays, who are for the most part decimated by injuries. The Orioles' pitching was good this series, but the Jays' pitching was markedly better.

The offense has been ineffective for the Birds, and now the losing streak is at five.

Next, are the so-called lowly Nats' -- just that they have won 5 out of their last 6, and two of their pitchers took no-hitters into the latter innings of ball games as of late.

Covering them for MVN.com, their offense may be lackluster, but they play with a lot of heart, so they should give the Orioles a challenge.

Do not underestimate the Nationals.

Maybe the Orioles will turn the tide ths weekend.