A stroll over to the MLB Fan Cave

While in New York City this weekend, I and some friends got to visit the MLB Fan Cave at the corner of 4th Street and Broadway in the heart of Greenwich Village.

Walking in the Fan Cave was pretty cool, and it was quite the decorative decor. We got to see the participants of this year's edition; however, we didn't get to interact with them at all, as they seemed to be on their computers and watching the games.

Anyhow, enjoy the pictures.

A turnstile from the old Yankee Stadium

Happy trails, Josh Bell. The Orioles sent him to the Arizona Diamondbacks after he was designated for assignment last week.

The Orioles today announced that they have assigned INF JOSH BELL to the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for a player to be named later.

Bell had been designated for assignment April 16 when the Orioles claimed CA LUIS EXPOSITO on waivers from Boston.

Bell, 25, batted .200/.221/.264 in 79 games with the Orioles in 2010 and 2011.  He was acquired by Baltimore on July 30, 2009 in exchange for LHP GEORGE SHERRILL.

Bell, when he has played in the majors (sparingly), looked good at points in the field; however, he never figured out how to hit at the major league level. He came to the team overweight, got in shape and seemed to be making an effort, but it all never clicked.

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One bad inning kills Arrieta and Orioles; Valentine and the Red Sox

One lousy inning on Saturday befell Jake Arrieta and the Baltimore Orioles and there was little they could do to dig out of it. In the end, they would lose their second straight game to the Los Angeles Angels by a score of 6-3.

The Orioles were up 2-0 in the fifth inning and Arrieta had been cruising through the game. It looked like that he would cruise to his second victory of the season; however, his start would fall to pieces.

The frame started off with Torii Hunter reaching base, but then advanced to third off an errant pickoff throw. He was driven in by Mark Trumbo, and then Angels tied the game at two via a bases-loaded single by Erick Aybar.

The Angels were not done with the scoring, as Bobby Abreu plated in two runs with the bases loaded again, raising the score to 4-2. Thereafter, Kendry Morales made the score  5-2 with a bases loaded single.

Even though the Orioles were down by three at that point, the game might as well have been over.

Arrieta only lasted 4 1/3 innings and gave up five runs on six hits. It was quite shocking to see him fall apart in the fifth inning, considering how well he was doing. For the first half of the game, it looked as if he and Waver were going to be involved in a duel; however, it was not to be. It was like Arrieta just lost it and could not get things back into check.

Jered Weaver won his third game of the season, as he mastered the Orioles, striking out five and walking none.
Of course, the Orioles had yet another error – this time by Mark Reynolds in the seventh inning that led to another run for the Angels. They have committed 15 errors – in 15 games. That is inexcusable.

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Brian Matusz struggles again; Orioles Lose first out West against Angels

We all as fans are wondering if Brian Matusz will ever again show promise as a pitcher that was on display at the end of 2010?

On Friday night, that wish did not manifest itself as Matusz lost his 12th straight game and the Orioles lost to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, 6-3.

The Orioles are now 8-6 on the season; meanwhile, the Angels who have been struggling – losing three in a row before Friday – are 5-9.

Friday’s loss was not all his fault, as the Orioles committed three errors – including two by Robert Andino, a throwing error by Adam Jones in the sixth that allowed a run to come in - on the night. The offense did not help much at all, as they mustered seven hits and could not get to Jerome Williams – who started the game for the Angels and got the win.

Watching on MLB.tv from the Big Apple this morning, it was fairly frustrating to watch this team for the first time in a while. Matusz was shaky, as he allowed two runs in the first inning, another in the first, got through three more frames that teetered on potentially disastrous. After he was removed from the game in the sixth inning, Matusz was lifted in favor of Darren O’Day, who gave up two more runs.

Overall, Matusz only lasted five frames and gave up runs – four earned on nine hits. I guess if you are looking for positive out of Matusz’s start, he struck out six Angels.

Baltimore’s scoring came in the third inning as J.J. Hardy plated in a run with an RBI-single, and they added two more in the sixth as Nolan Reimold – hit a two-run homer – his fifth on the season.

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The Angels Are on the Docket; Thoughts Around Baseball - Bobby Valentine, The Red Sox, Kemp and More

The first place team in the American League East – yes, the Baltimore Orioles – head to the left coast this weekend to face the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. This is the last stop on their ten game road trip. They are 8-5 on the season.

So far, it has been good for the Orioles. They took three out of four from the White Sox, and the Angels are reeling with a 4-9 record so far.

The season has not been kind to Angels at all. They have had issues with their offense, and also some slight pitching woes, especially with their bullpen. As well, Albert Pujols – who signed a mega-deal with the Angels in the offseason – is hitting, albeit without much power.

Pujols’ track record shows that he’ll be fine. Once he learns the pitchers in the American League, the Angels should be rolling; however, it is still surprising to see. Like I said months ago, Pujols was better off in St. Louis and despite what the Angels offered, why did he leave?

I would say if the Angels don’t get going soon, they’ll be in big trouble considering how hot the Texas Rangers are and the level of talent they have.

Although the Angels are down and out right now, this will be a test for the Orioles. The Angels still have very good pitching on paper, and their offense can break open at any time. That team has way too much talent to be saddled with a bad record.

Moving on to other thoughts around baseball…

Seriously, does anyone think the Boston Red Sox may just not be that all that good? They are in last place in the division, and their pitching rotation, plus bullpen seem to be in shambles. As well, the whole Bobby Valentine/Kevin Youkilis episode this week doesn’t bode well for them at all.

I mean, I thought managers are supposed to have their players back – even if it means lying. I don’t know too many men in Valentine’s position who would have done what he did. Then again, if the players don’t for care him, they should have thought twice about the ramifications before their collapse last season.

But, Valentine needs to stop being a provocateur.

It’s just amazing that Robert Andino’s hit in game 162 of the 2011 season altered the course of the Red Sox’s future as much as it has. If the Red Sox just won that game, perhaps everything that came out afterward and the changes made don’t ever happen.

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Role finally solidified, Reimold on a roll: Special for MASNSports.com

As most fans know, it has been an extremely tough road for Nolan Reimold during the past few seasons. Life is always full of ups and downs, but the true test of someone's character depends on how they persevere.

So far, Reimold is passing that test - at least professionally.

During the early weeks of the season, he has been one of the hottest hitters in baseball, batting .341 with four homers - all in key spots - with eight RBIs.

As it is, you can say that Reimold has had a critical role in the Orioles earning seven wins in their first 12 games.

Whether or not the Orioles keep up their winnings ways or start fading in weeks to come, this is all certain at least for now: Reimold is still part of the future with the Orioles.

Now, he is showing the promise that made him one the rising faces of the Orioles in 2009 when he batted .279 with 15 homers and 45 RBIs.

As well, one could say that Reimold should be in the lineup every day from here on out - whether he bangs out four hits, or goes hitless in a game. They key with Reimold in the past has been consistency, but so far this season, that has not been a problem.

Between personal problems, battling for playing time, plus bouncing up and down between the minors and majors over the past years, it has been a wait-and-see game with him. However, Reimold become an indispensable part of the Orioles and has had a knack for the dramatic.

>>> Read More at MASNSPORTS.com

Press Release: Gilman and Mount St. Joseph to meet in President's Cup Championship at Camden Yards this Saturday

If you'll be in the Baltimore area on Saturday, and want to watch some high school baseball. From the Baltimore Orioles...

Gilman and Mount St. Joseph to meet in President's Cup Championship at Camden Yards this Saturday

Hall of Famer FRANK ROBINSON to throw out ceremonial first pitch

The Orioles will host Gilman and Mount St. Joseph in the President's Cup Championship Game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards this Saturday, April 21. The President's Cup is a 16-team, single-elimination tournament that gives public and private schools in Baltimore City an opportunity to compete against one another.

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Orioles Take Three Of Four From Sox; Hammel Shines, Jones Homers

Yes, folks – the Baltimore Orioles are in first place in the American League East, and this afternoon, they beat the Chicago White Sox, 5-3.

They took three out of four from the White Sox, and sit atop of the division with an 8-5 record.

I was a little bewildered by the Hammel trade when it happened; however, he is working out quite well. He struck out ten in six innings, gave up two runs, and got the win – his second of the season.

Jim Johnson earned his sixth save of the season. Yes, he made it exciting again – loading the bases – and striking out Alex Rios to end the game. in the bottom of the ninth

After being silenced at the plate, the Orioles got it going. They scored twice in the opening frame, and then Adam Jones hit a three-run homer – his 5^th of the year – laid the hammer down on the White Sox.

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This season is critical for Adam Jones: Special For MASNSports.com

During the offseason, one the biggest names on the Orioles - Adam Jones - was a target of trade rumors, specifically talks with the Atlanta Braves for pitcher Jair Jurrjens and infielder Martin Prado.

Baltimore didn't wind up trading Jones, as we all know; however, will he stay with Orioles throughout his career or move to greener pastures and go to a winner?

Jones' profile has risen in the game, and he has steadily improved over the past few years. One would think that considering the Orioles are mired in a 14-year losing skid, perhaps trading away Jones for young pieces to build on is a prudent move.

Based on what I've read, executive vice president Dan Duquette wants to keep Jones. Then again, he isn't ignoring offers for him either. I would imagine it would take quite a haul to acquire Jones, and a lot of teams right now won't give up what it would take.

>>> Read More on MASNSPORTS.com

Not Much to Say, Orioles Lose to White Sox; Tommy Hunter Struggles...

This week, the Orioles have been riding high in Chicago; however, on Wednesday night it all came to screeching halt. The White Sox earned their first win of the series with an 8-1 drubbing of the Orioles in the Windy City.

There’s not much to be said on part of the Orioles. Endy Chavez plated in a run in the second inning, but the bats were quiet after that.

Jake Peavy – who started for the White Sox, and is 2-0 now on the season – held the Orioles to one run over seven innings, and gave up only four hits.

Sadly for Baltimore, pitcher Tommy Hunter (1-1) got shelled. He took the loss and only went 5 2/3 innings and gave up eight runs – all earned – on nine hits. Ok, a positive -- he struck out eight.

He still lost badly.

Hunter didn’t have it at all. He had two strong starts to begin the season; however, yesterday he just could not get his pitches to be effective and gave up a run in each frame except the first inning.

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Jamie Moyer is Amazing...

Jamie Moyer – who is 49 years old – became the oldest man to win a ball game last night. He pitched seven innings against the San Diego Padres and won his 268^th game in his career.

He’s a former Oriole that I remember vaguely watching in the 1990’s, and back then one would have never thought the he would be pitching in the majors for a fourth decade. Now, he is with the Colorado Rockies after missing last season due to Tommy John surgery.

You would never have considered Moyer as one of the more dominant pitchers of his generation; however, he’s intelligent and knows the nuances of pitching.

He’s won as many as Hall-of-Famer and Oriole legend Jim Palmer, who has 268. Do I think he’s getting in the Hall of Fame, no.

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Reimold and Hardy Help O's and Chen Win...

So, the Orioles are only eleven games into the 2012 season. I felt that they would struggle throughout the season considering the state of their pitching; however, so far that has been wrong.

The Baltimore Orioles won again in Chicago as they defeated the Chicago White Sox, in a razor thin 3-2 victory. Wei-Yin Chen earned his first major victory, and the bullpen – Darren O’ Day, Troy Patton, Troy Patton, and Jim Johnson – came through in the end.

Baltimore loaded the bases in the ninth inning, and Johnson was taking a tight-rope; however, he got the final hitter of the game, Brent Morel, to groundout and secured the win.

Chen – who went 5 2/3 innings – was rolling through the game until the sixth inning. With Baltimore leading 2-0, he ran into trouble and labored through the frame, giving up a two-run double to A.J. Pierzynski before O’Day came in and stopped the Chicago threat.

The Orioles too did their scoring in the sixth inning, plating in three runs. Two homers – a two-run shot from Nolan Reimold, and a solo shot from J.J. Hardy, back-to-back – made all the difference for Baltimore.

Hardy’s homer was his third on the season; meanwhile, Reimold hit his fourth on the season. Boy, has Reimold been super hot. Good for him. I’m glad he’s finally getting a chance to play every day and succeeding so far.

Yesterday, Peter Schmuck in a column on the Baltimore Sun is cynical of the team’s performance so far. Considering the history of the franchise over the last 14 years, a fall will happen sooner or later.

It’s in the back of my mind, and perhaps many fans.

>>> Read More

Minor Leaguer Ohlman Suspended; Dylan Bundy Dominates Again

Looks like an O's minor leaguer has been suspended for drug use...

From the Orioles: The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball announced today that Baltimore Orioles Minor League catcher Michael Ohlman has received a 50-game suspension after a second violation of the Minor League Drug Prevention and Treatment Program for a drug of abuse.

The suspension of Ohlman, who is currently on the roster of the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds, will be effective immediately.

The Baltimore Sun and Roch's blog has more on the news. Ohlman was not suspended for steroids.

Not sure why any player would want to risk their career or development to use drugs; however, temptation is a hard thing to beat. I'm sure Ohlman is sorry for everything, and he'll learn a lesson in a hard way from this.

Finally, Dylan Bundy has dominated in yet another minor league start -- this time at home for Delmarva.

From MASN Sports, Steve Melewski's blog: Orioles top pitching prospect Dylan Bundy just completed his third outing as a pro and he has now pitched the equivalent of a nine-inning no-hitter over his three games for the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds.

In the first inning tonight versus Hagerstown, the 19-year-old right-hander got a strikeout, followed by a pair of ground outs. In the second inning he got a fly out and then a pair of strikeouts. In the third he retired the first two hitters on ground outs before allowing a two-out walk before getting an inning-ending ground out.

Bundy retired the first 26 batters he faced as a pro before allowing a two-out walk in the third inning tonight.

Well, I don't think Bundy will be with Delmarva for too long. As it is, it may look like Bundy too good for the level of ball that he is in.

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Orioles Get Catcher, DFA Bell

The Baltimore Orioles made a move today, acquiring a catcher, while designating Josh Bell for assignment...

The Orioles today announced that they have claimed CA LUIS EXPOSITO on waivers from Boston.

Exposito, 25, is a career .268/.324/.420 hitter in seven minor league seasons in Boston’s farm system. He was the Red Sox 31^st round selection in the 2005 First Year Player Draft.

To make room for Exposito on the 40-man roster, INF JOSH BELL has been designated for assignment. Bell, 25, batted .200/.221/.264 in 79 games with the Orioles in 2010 and 2011. He was acquired by Baltimore on July 30, 2009 in exchange for LHP GEORGE SHERRILL.

Too bad about Josh Bell. If he is not picked up on waivers, he should stay in the organization.

>>> Read More

The Orioles Do the Improbable. Again. They Win Late Against the White Sox...

It has been an improbable start to the Orioles’ season so far. They earned another come-from-behind victory, this one in even more dramatic fashion than previously this season on Monday

The Orioles defeated the Chicago White Sox, 10-4, in ten innings as they used the long ball late to take the first contest in a three-game set.

As has been noted over and over again during the past week, the Orioles are winning games late in the clutch that they would have ordinarily lost in seasons past. Perhaps it is not a smart strategy to fall behind an opponent, climb back and won, but it is working for Baltimore so far. Plus, it is making things real entertaining for us fans.

In a stunning turn of events, the Orioles used four home runs, including two from Matt Wieters, and one each from Adam Jones and Nolan Reimold to raise their record to 6-4. Yes, they are still in first place in the American League East.

Baltimore was down 4-1 until Matt Wieters homered in 8th, and then they tied the game in the 9th off two solo homers from Nolan Reimold and Adam Jones.

In the tenth inning, the Orioles batted around they broke a 4-4 tie as Chris Davis plated in a run with a long double, and Nolan Reimold drove him to make the score 6-4.

Reimold, who did not start the game due to a hamstring issue, came in to pinch hit for Endy Chavez – who is batting only .067 – and delivered. He is probably the hottest hitter on the Orioles, hitting .353 on the season right now. If anything, his bat must stay in the lineup at all costs.

A few batters later, Matt Wieters – with the bases loaded – launched a grand slam home run to put the game out of reach for the White Sox.

Wieters is hitting .344 on the season, and Adam Jones is hitting .341. Both men had two enormous hits on the night.

The White Sox bullpen, aided by a big gaffe in the tenth in the center field by the center-fielder allowed Mark Reynolds to reach on a triple vaulted Baltimore.

Pedro Strop pitched two excellent innings in relief to earn his first win of the season. Meanwhile, Zach Stewart, who was pitching for the White Sox when they imploded, took the loss.

Jake Arrieta pitched well but got hampered by his defense. Both Matt Wieters and Chris Davis committed errors that allowed Chicago to get the advantage early.

However, Davis redeemed himself in a big way with a three-hit night. He is currently batting .387.

Overall, Arrieta went 6 2/3 innings and allowed four runs – two earned – on seven hits. He struck out seven.

Despite not earning the win yesterday, Arrieta has stepped up as the best pitcher on the staff so far during the young season. He is healthy, and it is certainly showing with the results. His ERA is at 2.66, and he seems to be throwing as well as ever.

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The White Sox on the Docket; Thoughts Around Baseball...

After winning two out of three games up in Toronto, the Baltimore Orioles return stateside and face the White Sox in the Windy City.

Over the past nine games to start the season, the Orioles have looked much improved from last year.

Granted, it has only been two weeks, but the pitching – for the most part – has kept the team in games, and the batters have come through in key moments.

Nolan Reimold, Wilson Betemit and Adam Jones deserve serious props for their hitting up in Canada.

Matt Wieters continues to look like a stud, and Ronny Paulino – no slouch at all – has swung the bat extremely well, compiling a .538 average in the early few weeks.

Although Matsuz has been hit around at times, overall, the staff has done remarkably well. They’ve pitched into the sixth inning most of the time, and that has given the bullpen a break.

So far, the bullpen has not had to come into a game in the early innings and salvage a poor start by a pitcher. That is highly encouraging to see.

Although Sunday’s loss was painful to watch, the Orioles have started their road trip on a high note.

The White Sox are 5-3 and are atop the American League Central – along with the favored Detroit Tigers. They had a seriously disappointing year in 2011; however, much like the Orioles, they are off to a decent start.

The White Sox pitching – and especially offense, plus defense – was a mess at times last year, but they have looked much improved. They nearly swept the Tigers over the weekend but lost on Sunday.

Tonight, Jake Arrieta takes the mound for the Orioles. He has been pitching well, as he is 1-0 with a 2.63 ERA.

Last week against the Yankees, Arrieta gave up four runs in 6 2/3 innings of work, but he might do better against a White Sox lineup – outside of Paul Konerko, Adam Dunn and A.J. Pierzynski – that hacks a lot at the plate.

Arrieta will counter against Phil Humber, who is making first start of the season.

***

It is refreshing to see the Los Angeles Dodgers and Washington Nationals off to hot starts and leading their respective divisions.

We all know about the drama that Dodgers fans have been through and now that Magic Johnson and friends have saved the franchise with a golden parachute, the sport will await to see what happens next.

And yes, Matt Kemp – who should have been MVP last year – is crazy talented and already has hit six homers and 16 RBI, plus is batting .487.

You have also got be amazed by the Nationals. They are 7-3, and although they are a trendy pick for many to make a playoff run, they have done everything right so far.

They’ve got a talented rotation and one of the best bullpens in the game today. I would not be surprised to see them win the division if the Philadelphia Phillies struggle with age, and the Marlins implode.

As well, their division rivals, the New York Mets are 6-3.

That is invigorating to see, but a team from New York should not struggle with their finances at all. It is a travesty what has happened with that organization.

Speaking about the Marlins, manager Ozzie Guillen is a piece of work.
Of course, Guillen has been a blowhard and attention-seeker for a long time, so was anyone really surprised by what he said?

Yes, we all want our celebs to speak their mind and be entertaining; however, only if you actually know what you are talking about and do not offend.

I think the suspension over his Castro comments was warranted; however, the Marlins did it because it was a prudent business decision considering they play in ... well, South Florida, with a huge Cuban population.

If he is fired, it will not be for his comments; it will be because the Marlins fell apart or they take a hit at the box office. I would think from here on out Guillen keep his mouth shut, unless he is just dumb.

Finally, yesterday was Jackie Robinson Day throughout the Major Leagues. It is always surreal and also awe-inspiring to see all the players and uniformed staffs wear the number 42 on their jerseys.

It is always beautiful to see, and it is good to see Major League Baseball keeping his memory and legacy alive.

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Matusz and Gregg Flatline in Toronto, O's Can't Sweep Jays

It was an ugly day for the Orioles, as they saw their brief two-game win streak snapped and a chance of a series sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays disappear.

The Orioles wound up losing to the Jays this afternoon, 9-2, and the role of Brian Matusz in the starting rotation may in be in question.

I had high hopes for him coming into the 2012 season; however, while Matsuz has shown some flashes of the promise he had a few seasons ago, his first two outings have been very shaky – perhaps concerning.

Well, the pitching fell apart in the in sixth inning as Brian Matusz and maligned reliever Kevin Gregg – was booed in Toronto also – gave up seven runs in the frame. It was quite unbelievable to watch considering Matusz up and to that point had only given up a run and the Orioles were in the lead, 2-1.

Matusz gave up a double, a homer, a single and walk before he was yanked from the game in favor of Gregg. He only opened up the floodgates he allowed five runs to come in with an RBI-double, followed by a two-run double, an RBI-double and then hit Brett Lawrie with the bases loaded.

By then, the Jays were up 9-2 and the game was out of reach for the Orioles. There would be no comeback or rally, but instead another confounding and painful loss.

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Orioles Win Again Late in Canada; Reimold

So far, it’s been very good for the Orioles in Canada. On Saturday, they earned their second straight comeback win in as many days over the Toronto Blue Jays, 6-4.

They are now 5-3 on the year, and in first place in the American League East. On Sunday, the Orioles will go for the sweep, as they have already taken the series.

Nolan Reimold came through in the clutch as he hit a two-run homer off Francisco Cordero – closer for the Jays – in the ninth inning to break a tie and give the Orioles a 6-4 lead.

What has made this weekend so great for us fans is that we’re seeing the Orioles win games that they would have lost in the past. While things are not perfect with the team, they are

Jim Johnson got the save – his third on the season - for the Orioles, by pitching a scoreless bottom of the ninth. Luis Ayala got the win for Baltimore by pitching the eighth inning and giving the Orioles their golden chance in the ninth inning.

Cordero took the loss for Toronto.

Henderson Alvarez – who started for the Jays – went seven innings and gave up three runs.

Jason Hammel started the game for Baltimore on the mound. His outing started off rocky as he gave up runs during first and second innings; however, he settled down. Hammel’s work on Saturday didn’t match his gem last Sunday, but he went five innings and allowed two runs.

The Jays helped out the Orioles in the second inning, as Brett Lawrie inexplicably tried to steal home with Jose Bautista – with the bases loaded; however, he was tagged out to end the threat at home by Matt Wieters. That frame could have made the game if Bautista got a base hit – or homered.

Both Alvarez and Hammel would earn no-decisions.

>>> Read More

Encouraged in April

The Orioles are off to a solid 4-3 start. At the beginning of the year if you told me that the Orioles would have that record, I would take it and be happy. however, getting swept by the Yankees in heartbreaking fashion after sweeping the Twins definitely stung. The Orioles needed that win against Toronto in Toronto last night for a couple reasons. They needed to halt an early three-game skid; They needed to get off to a good start on the road and they needed to start turning things around in Rogers Centre a notorious house of horrors for the team.

The road has been particularly harsh for the Orioles. The Birds have not had a winning percentage over .400 on the road since 2007. Against Toronto the Orioles are 18-36 over the last three seasons, and that number is inflated by a 9-9 season in 2009.

Last night the Orioles came out on top of a slugfest. The Jays and O's combined for seven homers, all solos, but it was the Orioles that got the last big hit for a change to finish with a 7-5 victory.That alone is good to see.

There are other reasons to be encouraged about the team in the neonatal 2012 season. There are the obvious ones: The core bats of the team are off to a good start, particularly Adam Jones and Matt Wieters; Robert Andino is simply tearing the cover off the ball right now and he is playing a very solid second base; The pitching has been solid outside of Brian Matusz' shaky start against the Yankees and Jim Johnson seems to have shaken off his spring training cobwebs and has already locked down his first two saves of the year with little effort.

One more thing that the Orioles are doing right now that I don't think is getting enough attention. This one aspect of their game early on is something that bodes very well for the team going forward: They are being patient at the plate. So far the Orioles as a team are averaging 3.9 pitches per PA. For comparison the Yankees and the Red Sox last season had a P/PA ratio of 3.92 and 3.95 respectively. Against the Yankees the Orioles allowed Freddy Garcia to nearly lose the game all by himself and the made CC Sabathia throw over 100 pitches through six innings any pitcher other than CC would have been chased by the fourth or fifth inning.

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