tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29880850633836827972024-03-21T10:18:44.052-07:00Oriole Post - Baltimore Orioles Analysis & News; The World of Baseball and BeyondA Baltimore Orioles blog. News, analysis, commentary on Major League Baseball, the Baltimore Orioles, American Culture and whatever comes to mind.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.comBlogger3589125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-45838946715417706562014-03-13T05:19:00.000-07:002014-03-13T05:19:13.198-07:00What to Buy the Man who already has EverythingGuys are notoriously challenging to buy gifts for and several men just seem to have everything, everything that they really want anyhow. There are actually only numerous bottles of aftershave and pairs of socks you can buy before you start to get just too predictable.<br />
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So how do you find the inspiration for the interesting gift for the man in your life that actually does have everything? The trick is to take into account his hobbies and interests - and if he doesn’t have any find him some.<br />
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I don’t like to generalize but most men like sports, cars and sex - often in this order. I can probably help you out together with the other two, though you can use your imagination for the last one, this is not that type of article.<br />
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<b>Sports gifts for men </b><br />
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Baseball team, hockey team or football team then you’re home dry, when your man is a particularly avid fan of some soccer team. These sports teams never miss a marketing opportunity and bring out new designs on old themes season in and season out. Even if several of the items are somewhat pricier than you would normally spend you could always find a tie, a tie pin or perhaps a pen blazoned with his favorite team.<br />
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Some men not simply like to watch and support sports, they also like to participate in them. This opens up a new world whatever sports or hobbies your man is interested in. How about deciding on a nice new bowling bag or couple of <a href="http://shop.bowlersparadise.com/elite-tribal-red-flame-bowling-shoes-men.aspx">bowling shoes for men</a> and if it isn’t his passion, you need to take him bowling for a birthday treat and soon it is going to be. There are many terrific gifts available at <a href="http://shop.bowlersparadise.com/">Bowlers Paradise</a> -<br />
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There are plenty of gifts to choose for avid golfers too - there’s far more to golf than a pair of clubs you already know. I know one specific golfer in need of a constant flow of new golf balls and tees - he has a tendency to misplace them on a regular basis, one-by-one. Other golfing inspired gifts include sweaters, towels and umbrellas and caps - even those cute little hats for that golf clubs.<br />
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There are loads of gifts available for men with a passion for cars too - in reality some men combine both and love racing cars. Baseball caps, team strips, driving days at a nearby sports track . . . all are accessible for the man who has everything.<br />
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How about a once in a lifetime experience? Lots of the more unusual birthday gifts these days feature a ride in a hot air balloon or something similar. Although spa weekends will be more generally considered to be a ladies type treat there’s no reason why the guy in your life wouldn’t enjoy being pampered to get a weekend - massaging away the stresses and strains of the working week.<br />
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Check online for several of the more unusual and unique gift ideas for the man in your own life - you can find hundreds to pick from. How about some astronaut ice-cream or a user’s guide to the air guitar - just a couple of crazy examples of the particular gifts available today. If he hasn’t got the real thing, there are even kits for the man in your own life to “grow his own sports car” -.<br />
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The truth is that no man has ever got everything so you just have to use a little creative imagination and come up with something he would never think of himself.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-78837418016104146712013-11-19T08:26:00.002-08:002013-11-25T16:00:01.166-08:00Guaranteed Thrift Store Treasures For Less Than $10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSl1EbnV0pXBRqqkKdWiCzLKeCJ_JNO3ni5A4AglLjYO1H-PMx9RJlw3OKgcJksyUskvl8a5ijS0e07JUEC0R3M3gao7-QVEtSyK-Kn3nCgK7QHKJWEEqNSzuvx8HtX3-GtODFY6cV_-Y/s1600/BowlingShoes-6-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Thrift store shopping is the best, you can always get some scores
that no one will believe were found for cheap at a thrift store.
Anyone can take their paycheck and head to the mall and get a
whole new wardrobe, a whole new look. But it’s the savvy shopper
that can actually find amazing things at the second hand store.
If you have a limited budget, it’s a great idea to go to the
second hand stores in your neighborhood and find some great gems
of articles of clothing and accessories to accent your new look.<br />
<br />
1. Necklaces<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSl1EbnV0pXBRqqkKdWiCzLKeCJ_JNO3ni5A4AglLjYO1H-PMx9RJlw3OKgcJksyUskvl8a5ijS0e07JUEC0R3M3gao7-QVEtSyK-Kn3nCgK7QHKJWEEqNSzuvx8HtX3-GtODFY6cV_-Y/s1600/BowlingShoes-6-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSl1EbnV0pXBRqqkKdWiCzLKeCJ_JNO3ni5A4AglLjYO1H-PMx9RJlw3OKgcJksyUskvl8a5ijS0e07JUEC0R3M3gao7-QVEtSyK-Kn3nCgK7QHKJWEEqNSzuvx8HtX3-GtODFY6cV_-Y/s1600/BowlingShoes-6-1.jpg" /></a><br />
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Yes, necklaces are a great thing to shop for at the second hand
store. Someone unloaded thousands of their grandmother’s
necklaces and other jewelry at the store, and it’s yours for the
flipping through. You will absolutely find something that has way
more perceived value and that you love. Heck, it may even become
a family heirloom for your progeny in the future, but for the
present, at least you’ll have a great new necklace to hang around
your neck.<br />
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2. Ironic footwear<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8iBNEY8SaidzBP1rgtIJOy-txzz5QWNDtno1F8XYtSc8Tg5S9YJbNq0EJTK4jpnO8KOn8c3qn3usLklHCCQw89Q0dczUL40RSlW3NWBp2ALvXl0KAy9sKZpzSDXN2OgePdwdJHbXBdA/s1600/BowlingShoes-6-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8iBNEY8SaidzBP1rgtIJOy-txzz5QWNDtno1F8XYtSc8Tg5S9YJbNq0EJTK4jpnO8KOn8c3qn3usLklHCCQw89Q0dczUL40RSlW3NWBp2ALvXl0KAy9sKZpzSDXN2OgePdwdJHbXBdA/s1600/BowlingShoes-6-2.jpg" /></a><br />
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Second hand shoes are tough because they are often worn out and worthless after a few wears. But sometimes you can luck into a great pair of shoes for under ten bucks. And sometimes the shoes are bad but can use a cheap repair and have a whole new life. If you’re looking for a vintage retro look, you can often find <a href="http://bowlingshoes.com/womens-bowling-shoes.aspx">women bowling shoes</a> sort of like the ones you can get new at <a href="http://bowlingshoes.com/">bowlingshoes.com</a> but they’re the real thing. I guess back in the day many more folks were buying their own shoes before hitting the lanes. Perhaps there wasn’t such a shoe rental market back then.<br />
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3. Linda Ronstadt albums<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXouZFKj7vEvxxwlaJY1cdYAkOS70cph4jCcV4ibAccmRaVn5Py2kAq8HKUsQtSPJn5SONrJ2Mg7G-uvqtgYO68F43oA1e5sRDtD70DVcrfcpgNPexu0Hr0JLm_v99lqczcJGkE9WfVsU/s1600/BowlingShoes-6-3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXouZFKj7vEvxxwlaJY1cdYAkOS70cph4jCcV4ibAccmRaVn5Py2kAq8HKUsQtSPJn5SONrJ2Mg7G-uvqtgYO68F43oA1e5sRDtD70DVcrfcpgNPexu0Hr0JLm_v99lqczcJGkE9WfVsU/s1600/BowlingShoes-6-3.jpg" /></a><br />
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One thing you will find almost everywhere is the complete works of
Linda Ronstadt on vinyl. It’s hard to believe, but she used to be
a high selling recording artist and to be honest, her albums
aren’t that bad. Since there are so many of these things lying
around, you can get them often for 99c or even less, maybe even 3
for a dollar. They’re pretty good records and you can have them
for cheap at almost every thrift store in the entire world.<br />
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4. Artwork for the New Home<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHQowZ3JVI_qWDRZ6baS_gcT2EB_nuJJkEgZcutD_OzpYRJGV3kHl8R0WwNP9wGOjJ6EqaL4p3mn9-_WjE_KcfmMFP5BTDvjSymUsmO9kGLSVoINfJ3BToJp01pdpljt3HuEfUgRJFbg/s1600/BowlingShoes-6-4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHQowZ3JVI_qWDRZ6baS_gcT2EB_nuJJkEgZcutD_OzpYRJGV3kHl8R0WwNP9wGOjJ6EqaL4p3mn9-_WjE_KcfmMFP5BTDvjSymUsmO9kGLSVoINfJ3BToJp01pdpljt3HuEfUgRJFbg/s320/BowlingShoes-6-4.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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When you’ve just moved in somewhere, you have to deck out the
place so it seems lived in, and like a home. Eventually you can
accumulate artwork that’s actually meaningful and pretty, but in
the meantime you can fill the empty walls with artwork from the
thrift stores. You can get some cool stuff in frames (that you
can even reuse down the road when you discard the art itself). It
can be fun to deck out the new house with items from the thrift
store, which can be under ten bucks. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-25929824980637768352013-06-03T05:26:00.000-07:002013-10-16T05:27:03.086-07:00Extremely Expensive Bowling Balls that You Probably Couldn't AffordSome of us are willing to spend a lot more money on our favorite pastimes than others. Traditionally, bowling is not considered to be a particularly expensive endeavor. A new ball will usually set you back between $50 and $150, and then you might need a pair of bowling shoes and a good bowling bag, like the ones you can find at <a href="http://bowlingbags.com/">bowlingbags.com</a>. Overall, it requires a small initial investment and then just the price of maintenance plus the cost of renting a lane at the bowling alley. However, there are ways you can drive the costs up by getting a very expensive bowling ball like the ones in the list below.<br />
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1. Yoda Bowling Ball<br />
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There are tons of bowling balls out there that feature custom designs and they are all more expensive than regular balls. However, the exact cost will depend on the intricacy of the design. A perfect example is one bowling ball which has a very detailed portrait of Yoda from Star Wars on it. The workmanship alone will drive up the price, but then you also need to consider that just about anything with Star Wars on it is considered a collectible by many.<br />
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2. Skull Ball<br />
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The price of this ball goes up because it is a movie prop. It was used in the 1999 superhero movie Mystery Men by The Bowler, a character played by Janeane Garofalo. The movie wasn’t a hit, but it became a cult classic and still has a following.<br />
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3. Rose Ball<br />
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Kingpin is the most iconic bowling movie ever made and in it the main villain played by Bill Murray had a distinctive bowling ball with a rose inside it. This ball later went to auction and it was reportedly sold for around $20,000.
BowlingBag-9-3.jpg<br />
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Whenever you are in need of quality bowling products such as bowling bags, visit <a href="http://bowlingbags.com/">http://bowlingbags.com</a> and you will find a large selection available to you at affordable prices.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-69907012111242066942013-06-02T05:27:00.002-07:002013-06-02T05:27:52.377-07:00Photo of the Year
...so far.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="Baltimore Sun : Karl Merton Ferron " src="http://www.trbimg.com/img-51a9695c/turbine/bs-sp-orioles-tigers-gamer-0601-20130531/400/400x225" style="height: 281px; width: 500px;" /><br />
<br />
From the Baltimore Sun, this might be one of the best baseball photos
of the year. Homeplate Umpire Greg Gibson clears the plate so Chris
Dickerson can officially score his game-winning walk-off three-run
homer.<br />
Amazing. Great shot by Sun photographer Karl Merton Ferron. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/site/photo-of-the-year.html"><b>>>> Read More</b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-13089259337411321502013-06-02T05:26:00.001-07:002013-06-02T05:26:43.537-07:00Tragedy at Camden
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, sans-serif;">Writing
a baseball blog is supposed to be a fun hobby. I get to write about my
favorite team, post funny memes and basically faff about on the internet
in between responsibilities both professional and personal. But every
so often something happens that I simply cannot ignore and I have to
take a detour in the world of politics and my general disdain for most
of humanity.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, sans-serif;">Today is one of those days.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, sans-serif;">Last
week the forces of machismo, alcohol, rivalry, idiocy, and adrenaline
combined in the stands of Camden Yards. When these things happen it is
never a good thing, and it does happen often but it rarely ever ends in
anything significant. Last week it did. At Wednesday’s Orioles –
Nationals game Matthew Fortese from Hagerstown was with a young lady on
their second date. Matthew made the, apparently, cardinal sin of wearing
a Yankees hat at a baseball game and thus incurred the wrath of Gregory
Fleischman and Michael Bell, a couple of 20-somethings from the greater
Baltimore area.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, sans-serif;">The
complete circumstances of what transpired throughout that night will
likely never be entirely known. What we do know is this: The two men are
accused of harassing Fortese and his girlfriend most of the night. This
culminated with a full beer being lobbed at the couple. Fortese then
stood up and confronted the two men. A punch was thrown, Fortese
stumbled and fell backwards over the railing of their section. He landed
on the concrete five feet below fracturing his skull in the process.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, sans-serif;">He
is currently in the Intensive Care Unit of the University of Maryland
Medical Center’s Shock Trauma center. Bell and Fleischman are out on
bail.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, sans-serif;">We now have to have a discussion on fan behavior at games.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, sans-serif;">First
and foremost let us dispatch with the fake shock over this. Allow me to
channel my inner Claude Raines when I say I am shocked, SHOCKED, to
hear someone got seriously hurt at a baseball game fight. And please, do
not mistake my flippancy for callousness. I have nothing but the
deepest sympathies for the Fortese family and friends and I genuinely
wish him the speediest and full recovery. I also have nothing but pity
for the pathetic pair of boys that are charged with the assault. The
bottom line is they did not intend to seriously hurt this man. Sure,
they seem to be the guys who started it and one of them threw a punch
but I do not believe that in their wildest dreams they expected
something like this would happen.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/tragedy-at-camden.html">>>> Read More </a></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-30618482691398881342013-06-01T05:29:00.000-07:002013-06-02T05:29:35.181-07:00What a night; Chris Dickerson's walk-off homer helps Orioles defeat Tigers, 7-5<div style="text-align: left;">
What a week for the Orioles. After their come-back-from-behind victory
on Wednesday, I didn’t think much else could have topped what I saw
then.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Well, what happened at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Friday may have
topped that. As you all probably know by now, the Orioles pulled an
amazing win, defeating the Detroit Tigers, 7-5, in the first contest in a
three game series.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
With Baltimore down by three, 6-3, in the ninth, Detroit brought in
Jose Valverde to close out the game. He was basically unemployed at the
start of the season; however, Detroit brought him back – because they
had no one else really to close out games!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Anyhow, if there was a closer the Orioles could come back against, it was Valverde.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then it happened.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Nick Markakis led off the frame with a home run, and then Adam Jones
along with Chris Davis followed up with back-to-back singles. The Tigers
got two outs thanks to horrible at-bats by Matt Wieters and J.J. Hardy;
however, the next batter, Chris Dickerson decided to end things with
one swing of the bat.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He took a Valverde offering and deposited it into right centerfield,
ending the game. The sold out crowd of 46,249 who stayed until the end
were in frenzy, and it felt like the Orioles had won a playoff game or
something. It felt like a rock concert and you were surrounded by
thousands of your best friends dressed in orange and black.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Most of the fans didn’t leave the stadium after the Orioles secured their 31<sup>st</sup> win of the season – at least until they saw Dickerson pied the face with shaving cream by Jones and Alexi Casilla.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Everyone stayed on the feet from the Markakis homer until the very
end. It was quite a sight to see and just amazing how the community has
responded to the Orioles finally becoming a winning organization.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Opposing teams have to know by now that no lead they build by now is
safe with the Orioles, and that they will fight for all 27 outs.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/what-a-night-chris-dickerson-s-walk-off-homer-helps-orioles-defeat-tigers-7-5.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-68471532645928724592013-05-31T11:35:00.001-07:002013-05-31T11:35:02.801-07:00Is Chris Davis for Real?<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Designated hitter Chris Davis #19 of the Baltimore Orioles high-fives teammate Nick Markakis #21after hitting a two-run home run in the seventh inning against the Washington Nationals during an interleague game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on May 29, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. The Baltimore Orioles won, 9-6. " src="http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Chris+Davis+Washington+Nationals+v+Baltimore+_0P1mHDONUVx.jpg" style="height: 266px; width: 400px;" /></div>
<br />
At this point, in my life as a sports fan, I’m often not surprised by much.<br />
<br />
So far this season, Chris Davis has me wondering if what I am seeing from him is for real based on his track record.<br />
<br />
I was not sure if he could replicate what he did last season at the
plate, especially towards the end coming into 2013; however, is
exceeding that and a whole lot more.<br />
<br />
His nickname among fans and the media is “Crush”, based on his power at
the plate, size and physique, and since Opening Day, he has been doing
just that.<br />
<br />
Last night, he willed the Orioles to their 29th win of the season as he
went 4-for-4 at the plate and hit two home runs against the Washington
Nationals.<br />
<br />
The Orioles won a thriller by a score of 9-6.<br />
<br />
Davis put on a show on his t-shirt night and made sure that the 39,000
fans who attended last night’s game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards got
their money’s worth.<br />
<br />
He completely upstaged Washington third baseman Ryan Zimmerman, who had
three home runs on the night off Baltimore starting pitcher Chris
Tillman.<br />
<br />
I attended the game last night with family and friends. We just sat
back and enjoyed a show in Charm City that got more exciting as it
developed.<br />
<br />
Right now, he is hitting everything in sight and has greatly improved
his batting eye. He clearly does not strike out the same level as last
season and reminds me of Barry Bonds - at the turn of this century -
during the first two months of the 2013 season.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.masnsports.com/orioles_buzz/2013/05/anthony-amobi-is-chris-davis-for-real.html">>>> Read More</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-31150301120636630812013-05-31T11:32:00.005-07:002013-05-31T11:32:52.421-07:00Garcia delivers big time; Orioles take three of four from the NatsThe Baltimore Orioles for the past year and half have been a team full of surprises and revelations.<br />
<br />
When the organization signed Freddy Garcia, I knew we had a veteran
who has been around the league, had some success and was at the twilight
of their career.<br />
<br />
Freddy Garcia was once a fireballer, but now he is a guy who relies on finesse and command to succeed.<br />
<br />
There’s a reason why guys like him seem to stick around forever, and a prime example of that notion was shown on <a href="http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bal-orioles-freddy-garcia-wins-unlikely-pitchers-duel-vs-nationals-20130530,0,122779.story">Thursday during a sweltering May night at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.</a><br />
<br />
Last night, he delivered a performance that the <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2013_05_30_wasmlb_balmlb_1&mode=recap_home&c_id=bal">Orioles sorely neede</a>d. He threw shutout innings, gave up only three hits and struck out six as the <a href="http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=330530101">Orioles defeated the Washington Nationals, 2-0</a>.<br />
<br />
The Orioles took three of four from the Nationals, and their record stands at 30-24.<br />
<br />
Back to Garcia: the burly veteran kept the National bats quiet by
mixing up his pitches and using his splitter to get guys out. Even more
impressive, he retired 14 straight at one point and ended the night with
seven consecutive outs.<br />
<br />
Unlike the slugfests we’ve all seen this week, Thursday’s game resembled a pitching duel from back in the day.<br />
<br />
The Washington squad seemingly had no chance against Garcia. Dan Haren
pitched well for them, but their offense could not produce anything at
all. They were expected to be contenders for a World Series spot during
the winter; however, they are only 27-27 and have had offensive
struggles all season.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/garcia-delivers-big-time-orioles-take-three-of-four-from-the-nats.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a><br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/garcia-delivers-big-time-orioles-take-three-of-four-from-the-nats.html"><b> http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/garcia-delivers-big-time-orioles-take-three-of-four-from-the-nats.html</b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-65272778494935313572013-05-30T11:34:00.000-07:002013-05-31T11:34:09.331-07:00Chris Davis and the Orioles put on a show against the Nationals last night; They win despite 3 homers from Ryan Zimmerman...
Last night at Oriole Park at Camden Yards was simply an amazing
experience from a usual game there. I had family over from out of town
and decided at the spur of the moment to catch a game in Charm City.<br />
<br />
We would not regret the decision. It is hard to believe only two years
ago, the Orioles were a perennial doormat. Now, in 2013, the Orioles are
a contender, and do they ever win in an exciting fashion.<br />
<br />
As we all know, the Orioles won, 9-6, last night at Oriole Park against
the Washington Nationals. There were a little over 39,000 fans in
downtown Baltimore to partake a ballgame on a humid night and it felt
like a playoff game in late May. It felt like a big party, as I decided
to sit in the upper deck for change, rather than down in the lower
sections.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Ryan Zimmerman #11 of the Washington Nationals stands on deck before batting in the seventh inning against the Baltimore Orioles during an interleague game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on May 29, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. Zimmerman did not hit a fourth home run after hitting three at three other at bats. The Baltimore Orioles won, 9-6. " src="http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Ryan+Zimmerman+Washington+Nationals+v+Baltimore+tTuWSldjLgCx.jpg" style="height: 266px; width: 400px;" /></div>
It looked like the Nationals were running away with the game as Jordan
Zimmermann was masterful on the mound – for about half the game;
meanwhile, Ryan Zimmerman cranked three home runs off a shaky Chris
Tillman and Roger Bernandina also went deep.<br />
<br />
The game looked to be just about over; however, as opposing teams have figured out – no lead is safe against the Orioles.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Chris Davis #19 of the Baltimore Orioles hits an RBI single against the Minnesota Twins during the first inning of the game on May 11, 2013 at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota. " src="http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Chris+Davis+Baltimore+Orioles+v+Minnesota+RfG-x_ajry3x.jpg" style="height: 299px; width: 400px;" /></div>
<br />
In the bottom of the seventh inning, down 6-3, the Orioles struck back.
They scored six runs in the frame thanks to a long ball by Steve
Pearce, Chris Davis’ second homer of the night (he hit one in the 4th),
and RBIs from Manny Machado and Nick Markakis.<br />
<br />
Once again, the Orioles used the long ball to secure a victory and
pounded out 13 hits. It is safe to say that the offense has been
carrying this team for much of the year. On that note, Ryan Flaherty –
maligned by the fans due to his slow start – returned to the Orioles
from his minor league stint and pounded out two hits.<br />
<br />
And the fans cheered…<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/chris-davis-and-the-orioles-put-on-a-show-against-the-nationals-last-night-they-win-despite-3-homers-from-ryan-zimmerman.html">>>> Read More </a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-6235188702926464982013-05-30T05:30:00.000-07:002013-06-02T05:30:32.996-07:00Garcia delivers big time; Orioles take three of four from the NatsThe Baltimore Orioles for the past year and half have been a team full of surprises and revelations.<br />
<br />
When the organization signed Freddy Garcia, I knew we had a veteran
who has been around the league, had some success and was at the twilight
of their career.<br />
<br />
Freddy Garcia was once a fireballer, but now he is a guy who relies on finesse and command to succeed.<br />
<br />
There’s a reason why guys like him seem to stick around forever, and a prime example of that notion was shown on <a href="http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bal-orioles-freddy-garcia-wins-unlikely-pitchers-duel-vs-nationals-20130530,0,122779.story">Thursday during a sweltering May night at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.</a><br />
<br />
Last night, he delivered a performance that the <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2013_05_30_wasmlb_balmlb_1&mode=recap_home&c_id=bal">Orioles sorely neede</a>d. He threw shutout innings, gave up only three hits and struck out six as the <a href="http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=330530101">Orioles defeated the Washington Nationals, 2-0</a>.<br />
<br />
The Orioles took three of four from the Nationals, and their record stands at 30-24.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/garcia-delivers-big-time-orioles-take-three-of-four-from-the-nats.html"><b>>>> Read More</b></a><br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-28066428506546153862013-05-29T11:35:00.000-07:002013-05-31T11:36:21.264-07:00Orioles to raise awareness "4 ALS"<h1 class="article-headline">
Orioles to raise awareness "4 ALS"</h1>
May is national ALS Awareness month. To continue baseball's
long-standing commitment to raising awareness of ALS (Amyotrophic
Lateral Sclerosis), Major League Baseball and all 30 Clubs are once
again teaming up for "4 ALS." On Thursday, May 30, the Orioles will host
The Brigance Brigade Foundation. The Brigance Brigade Foundation,
founded by former Baltimore Ravens player <strong>O.J. BRIGANCE</strong>
and his wife Chanda, was created to equip, encourage and empower people
living with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, an illness from
which Brigance himself suffers. The Foundation strives to improve the
quality of life of ALS patients and their families by providing
much-needed equipment, resource guidance and support services, as well
as funding for various ALS research initiatives. Chanda, accompanied by
O.J., will throw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to the Orioles'
game against the Washington Nationals. The Orioles have donated 100
tickets for Thursday's game to the Brigance Brigade Foundation for ALS
patients and their families, as well as Foundation volunteers.<br />
O.J. Brigance is a championship football player who is one of the few
players to have won both a CFL and NFL championship and the only player
to accomplish this feat in the same city, Baltimore. In 2000, Brigance
played for the Baltimore Ravens and made the first tackle of their win
in Super Bowl XXXV. After his retirement as a player, Brigance returned
to Baltimore to serve as the Director of Player Development for the
Ravens, and since 2010, Brigance has been the Ravens' Senior Advisor to
Player Development.<br />
For additional information on ALS awareness and ways to help those
suffering from ALS, fans can visit the Community Booth at Oriole Park on
Thursday.<br />
<div align="center">
<strong><u>IN THE COMMUNITY</u></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong>CHRIS DAVIS "IT CAN WAIT" VISIT</strong></div>
On Thursday, May 30, Orioles first baseman <strong>CHRIS DAVIS</strong>
will appear at Catonsville High School from 12-1 p.m. on behalf of
AT&T to educate students and faculty on the dangers of texting while
driving and generate awareness for AT&T's "It Can Wait" campaign.
AT&T will present to students a 10-minute documentary, "The Last
Text," which recounts stories of families and students who have lost
loved ones or been involved in accidents as a result of texting while
driving. This event is open to the media. Catonsville High School is
located at 421 Bloomsbury Ave, Baltimore, MD 21228.<br />
<div align="center">
<strong>JASON HAMMEL VISITS CURTIS BAY ELEMENTARY</strong></div>
As part of the ongoing OriolesREACH partnership with Baltimore City Schools, Orioles pitcher<strong> JASON</strong> <strong>HAMMEL</strong>
will meet with over 500 students from Curtis Bay Elementary School on
Thursday, May 30 from 11 a.m. to noon to talk about the importance of
regular attendance. This appearance is one of a number that Orioles
players and the Oriole Bird will participate in to support the City
Schools' initiative to promote three core pillars of success among
students - attendance, diversity and teamwork -- over the final month of
the school year. These pillars were identified as core character traits
for students by Baltimore City Schools. Hammel will speak as a reward
for those students who have reduced their absences by 50% through the
"FAN"tastic Attendance Program. Students in grades K-8 will participate.
Curtis Bay Elementary is located 4301 Tenth Street Baltimore, MD 21225.<br />
<div align="center">
<strong><u>AT THE BALLPARK</u></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong>NEW MLB.COM AT THE BALLPARK OFFER FROM SOUTHWEST</strong></div>
Beginning this homestand, the Orioles have partnered with Southwest
Airlines to offer the Southwest Airlines Check-in Offer Sweepstakes, to
award one fan each homestand two Southwest Airlines round-trip tickets.
Beginning today when the Orioles take on the Washington Nationals, fans
may enter the sweepstakes by checking in at Oriole Park at Camden Yards
via the MLB.com At the Ballpark mobile application. One winner will be
selected for each of the Orioles' next six homestands through Sunday,
August 25, and each will receive two Southwest Airlines round-trip
tickets.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/orioles-to-raise-awareness-4-als.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-63202635168865102202013-05-29T00:00:00.000-07:002013-05-31T11:37:56.793-07:00Welcome to the Big Leagues, Kid; Davis and Machado
We all know by now that the Baltimore Orioles got killed by the Washington Nationals last night, 9-3.<br />
<br />
After a lengthy rain delay, the game featured two starters that were in
Double-A only about two weeks ago. One guy – Kevin Gausman – was making
his second start in the majors for Baltimore; meanwhile, Nathan Karn
for Washington was making his major league debut.<br />
<br />
The game itself was not pretty to watch, as you got the feeling, “ok,
at any point, no lead is safe”, based on what both teams were doing at
the plate in the first half; however, for Gausman, the results were not
good at all.<br />
<br />
The 22-year-old only lasted four innings and gave up seven runs – all
earned. He allowed three long balls and is now 0-2 with an 11.00 ERA in
two starts.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Starting pitcher Kevin Gausman #37 of the Baltimore Orioles throws a pitch in the first inning during an interleague game against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on May 28, 2013 in Washington, DC. " src="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Kevin+Gausman+Baltimore+Orioles+v+Washington+kPS-mnv3QDlx.jpg" style="height: 266px; width: 400px;" /></div>
<br />
The youngster left his pitches up in the zone. They were fastballs and
were crushed by major league hitters. Gausman may get away with those
pitches in the minors, but not in the majors, nor against a team that
was christened as World Series bound in the spring.<br />
<br />
At this point, most front offices would send a pitcher like Gausman
back to the minors. However, that will not be the case as manager Buck
Showalter announced he would make his next start on Sunday.<br />
Um, against the out-of-this-word Miguel Cabrera and the Detroit Tigers.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/site/welcome-to-the-big-leagues-kid-davis-and-machado.html">>>> Read More </a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-33834742302578826522013-05-28T11:39:00.000-07:002013-05-31T11:40:07.974-07:00Hammel and Johnson
We all know that Jason Hammel has struggled this season on the mound despite a 6-2 record.<br />
For much of the first two months of the season, the tall righty has
been unable to go deep into games. More often than not, the bullpen,
along with the offense has to bail him out.<br />
On Monday, the Hammel that we as fans saw for much of the first half in 2012 re-emerged in Washington, D.C..<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Starting pitcher Jason Hammel #39 of the Baltimore Orioles throws a pitch in the first inning during an interleague game against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on May 27, 2013 in Washington, DC. " src="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Jason+Hammel+Baltimore+Orioles+v+Washington+D4BCXa5mYENx.jpg" style="height: 266px; width: 400px;" /></div>
He went eight strong innings, only allowed two runs and struck out in
Baltimore’s 6-2 win over Washington.<br />
<br />
Monday's game is the first in a
two-game set in the Nation's Capital. The two teams play in Baltimore on
Wednesday and Thursday.<br />
<br />
The Washington Nationals have been injury riddled and were without
young phenom Bryce Harper in the starting lineup. The Orioles took
advantage of it.<br />
<br />
The tall righty was aggressive against the Nationals and just seemed to
be a very complete pitcher yesterday. He mixed up his pitches and kept
the opposing team at bay all afternoon. Of course, the offense came
through for him with a three-run fourth inning and they kept going from
there.<br />
<br />
Manny Machado had three hits; Nick Markakis and Yamaico Navarro drove
in two runs and had two hits. Adam Jones and Steve Pearce also drove in
runs. Baltimore was able to pound 15 hits, and got Washington starting
pitcher Gio Gonzalez out the game after 5 2/3 innings.<br />
<br />
Again, the story of the game was pretty much Hammel. The Orioles,
considering how much their bullpen has been relied upon on all season,
need a start like this from one of their pitchers. It could be the
beginning of something, or just a very good start during a very long
season.<br />
<br />
Baltimore’s main problem despite their 28-23 record as of this morning
has been their starting rotation. In order to still stay in the hunt for
the division – or a playoff spot – they’ll need more outings like this
from Hammel and the rest of the staff.<br />
<br />
If you want to look up the odds of the Orioles winning tonight, <a href="http://www.sportsbetlistings.com/online-sportsbooks/bookmaker/bonus-code/">learn about the Bookmaker bonus here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Jim Johnson #43 of the Baltimore Orioles delivers a pitch during MLB game action against the Toronto Blue Jays on May 26, 2013 at Rogers Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. " src="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Jim+Johnson+Baltimore+Orioles+v+Toronto+Blue+-iB0iLDSZ_mx.jpg" style="height: 434px; width: 300px;" /></div>
<br />
Finally, I was listening to the radio driving into work and there was a
debate on whether Jim Johnson should be the closer for Baltimore.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/hammel-and-johnson.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-6593859834422442732013-05-26T11:41:00.000-07:002013-05-31T11:41:41.717-07:00Those Damn Yankees
<span style="font-size: small;">How do the Yankees do it? Seriously, year after year the seemingly
ageless New York Yankees continue to be at the top of the division. This
year has been the worst of it. The lineup is essentially spare parts
and Robinson Cano. Lyle Overbay routinely bats clean-up. The rusted
behemoth Travis Hafner sits behind him and then it is a collection of
backups and stopgaps as the normal travelling all-stars nurse various
and sundry injuries. This was supposed to be the year that the Yankees’
age and dollars catch up to them. It was not a n uncommon belief to
think that the Yankees might even finish at the bottom of the AL East.
And, yet again, here we all are looking at the Yankees with 30 wins
before June.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>As a Baltimore fan watching the Yankees
do this year after year causes me a special kind of pain. My first game
of the year was the contest against the Yankees this past Monday. I was
given a remarkable ticket by a colleague of mine. Sitting in section 42,
which is a grandly significant number for those of us who always know
where our towel is at, I noticed immediately that I was, of course,
surrounded by fans of the hated pinstripes.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>Maybe it is something about the uniform that makes the Yankees just </span><em>be. </em><span>I
know that there are only a few things that I see that cause me such a
visceral reaction of disgust: seeing those symbols elicits a physical
reaction of dread and revulsion. The point of that little meander is
this: the Yankee uniform carries with it the game’s greatest histories
and the souls of its greatest players. The interlocking NY, as much as
it makes me want to wretch every time I see it, carries with it a
certain power. And the players know that. How else do you explain a guy
like Vernon Wells?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>Wells was left for dead in Los Angeles.
He comes to New York and suddenly he is playing like he did five years
ago. Same can be said for Hafner. Or how about players like Francisco
Cervelli, who should never be as good as he is, or Lance Nyx, or Melky
Cabrera for that matter? Players that on any other team you know would
be also-rans and benchwarmers come to New York, are thrust into the
spotlight while wearing that uniform and they suddenly succeed. I know
for a fact that I am not the only non-Yankee fan in the world that is
repulsed by the sight of the team when they come to town. And the team
knows it to, I am sure the hatred fuels this team on some level. Why
else would they be called the Evil Empire?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/those-damn-yankees.html">>>> Read More </a></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-55276633694256411322013-05-13T12:10:00.000-07:002013-05-13T12:10:53.694-07:00Chen and the Starting Pitching<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Wei-Yin Chen #16 of the Baltimore Orioles delivers a pitch against the Minnesota Twins during the first inning of the game on May 12, 2013 at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota. " src="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Wei+Yin+Chen+Baltimore+Orioles+v+Minnesota+irBPv13djEpx.jpg" style="height: 292px; width: 400px;" /></div>
<br />
The Baltimore Orioles had another successful weekend, taking yet
another series against the Minnesota Twins.<br />
<br />
They won two out of three games,
thanks to the offense and work by the bullpen. The starting pitching has
not been great; however, on Sunday, Wei-Yin Chen was rolling and
perhaps headed another brilliant performance until the fifth inning.<br />
<br />
Towards the end of the frame, Chen looked to be in pain. From media
accounts, he exited the game with an oblique strain and it is unknown
the severity of the injury at this time. It was a moment that made me
wince and say to myself, “oh s**t, please tell me he’s not gone for a
long time…”<br />
<br />
So far, Chen is the one starter who can be counted on to go deep into
games. The other arms in the rotation – while they have not been
horrendous – have not been nearly as consistent as Chen.\<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/chen-and-the-starting-pitching.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-9541079471682044292013-05-12T11:31:00.000-07:002013-05-12T11:31:00.350-07:00Resiliency and the DH Spot...
Last night’s game looked lost for the Orioles. I was listening to the
game on my way to western Pennsylvania and it seemed liked they were
headed to a loss against the Minnesota Twins. Jason Hammel – who started
the game – was off; the Orioles were mired in a six-run deficit and
shutout in the first six innings, plus the offense seemed to be
non-existent.<br />
<br />
However, business started to pick up for Baltimore in the final
two-thirds of the game. The offense woke in the latter third of the
contest and they scored three runs in both the sixth and seventh innings
to tie things at six; then, in the tenth inning, the Orioles plated in
three runs and decided the game once and for all.<br />
<br />
The bullpen – T.J. McFarland, Tommy Hunter and Jim Johnson – pitched six innings of relief and helped Baltimore earn their 22<sup>nd</sup>
win of the season. They have won seven out of their last eight series
and are doing their best to keep up pace with the New York Yankees and
Red Sox.<br />
<br />
The offense pounded out eighteen hits last night and every batter –
except Matt Wieters – had a hit. Manny Machado, Adam Jones and Chris
Davis each had three hits; meanwhile, Mick Markakis, Nate McLouth, Alexi
Casilla and Chris Dickerson each had two.hits.<br />
<br />
The league knows now that the Orioles will play every out in the game and not give up.<br />
<br />
That is what winning franchises do and the Orioles are for real. They
are maturing and becoming a force in the American League. The Birds have
moved far away from the losing culture of the past and are now expected
to compete.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/resiliency-and-the-dh-spot.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-49906603430419326182013-05-11T11:32:00.000-07:002013-05-12T05:32:30.863-07:00On Dealing with Success
The Baltimore Orioles are successful. They are a successful baseball
team. They are winning consistently, honestly, and they are doing it
with ease. I sit here on a beautiful overcast Baltimore morning and the
Orioles are currently tied with the Boston Red Sox with the best record
in the American League.<br />
<br />
How do I process this?<br />
<br />
How does a long suffering Orioles fan deal with success?<br />
<br />
I am used to failure, I am used to struggle. I am used to talking about
what moves need to be made for the immediate and long-term future.<br />
<br />
Last year the Orioles exorcised the demons of a decade and a half of
misery. Broken promises, busted players, bad decisions, and downright
bad luck were the hallmarks of this team. Still, many did not believe
this team was ACTUALLY good. They were simply the luckiest team in
baseball history because that fit the narrative. The narrative being the
Orioles stink and are perpetually playing for five years down the road.
There was no way in the world that the Orioles could have actually
turned the corner, that can’t happen. They would most certainly come
back down to Earth with a cretaceous-like explosion.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/on-dealing-with-success.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-32933033968563281572013-05-10T05:33:00.000-07:002013-05-12T05:33:58.332-07:00Miguel Gonzalez Heads to the DL <div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Starting pitcher Miguel Gonzalez #50 of the Baltimore Orioles sits in the dugout before taking the mound against the Toronto Blue Jays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 23, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. " src="http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Miguel+Gonzalez+Toronto+Blue+Jays+v+Baltimore+DWBUxJKucLUx.jpg" style="height: 278px; width: 400px;" /></div>
<br />
Too bad to see about this about Miguel Gonzalez; however, it is
probably for the best at this point. It is early in the season and
better to rest him now with the blister issue than later.<br />
<br />
Gonzalez being lost could be a minor blow to the team considering how
well he pitched last season. I would not be too alarmed as the Orioles
have depth right now in their system and are playing very well at the
moment.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/site/miguel-gonzalez-heads-to-the-dl.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-52286764630215313642013-05-09T06:51:00.000-07:002013-05-12T06:51:26.628-07:00Fans invited to attend exclusive fundraising event for Shannon's Fund on May 18<h1 class="article-headline">
Fans invited to attend exclusive fundraising event for Shannon's Fund on May 18</h1>
<h2 class="article-subhead">
Pre-game event to include visits from BRADY ANDERSON, MIKE BORDICK, DAVE JOHNSON, a current O's player and other former Orioles</h2>
Prior to their game against the Tampa Bay Rays next Saturday, May 18,
the Orioles will host an exclusive fundraising event for Shannon's Fund,
an endowment at the University of Maryland Medical Center that provides
financial assistance to hospital patients in need. For $50, fans will
receive a left field lower box game ticket and enjoy a pre-game party on
the Roof Deck that will include visits from <strong>BRADY ANDERSON,</strong> <strong>MIKE BORDICK, DAVE JOHNSON</strong>,
a current Orioles player and other former Orioles. The deadline to
purchase tickets for this event has been extended to Tuesday, May 14.<br />
The Oriole Bird will also pose for photos with fans attending the
event, which will take place from 1:45-3:30 p.m. Light refreshments,
including two complimentary drink tickets, will be included, along with
an Orioles gift bag for each guest. Tickets for the Shannon's Fund event
are available at <a href="http://www.orioles.com/shannonsfund">www.orioles.com/shannonsfund</a>. The Orioles' game against the Rays will begin at 4:05 p.m.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/fans-invited-to-attend-exclusive-fundraising-event-for-shannon-s-fund-on-may-18.html">>>> Read More </a></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-7741851124754858092013-05-09T05:36:00.000-07:002013-05-12T05:37:43.725-07:00O's took a chance and gamble with Machado has paid off<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Third baseman Manny Machado #13 of the Baltimore Orioles throws to first base for the second out of the ninth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays during their 5-4 win at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 16, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. " src="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Manny+Machado+Tampa+Bay+Rays+v+Baltimore+Orioles+Fklhe-Qkvhyx.jpg" style="height: 496px; width: 400px;" /></div>
<br />
In August of 2012, the Baltimore Orioles were in the wild card hunt and desperate to solve a problem – third base.<br />
<br />
As we all know from last season, former Oriole Mark Reynolds despite
his power was struggling at the hot corner, and executive vice president
Dan Duquette, the front office, along with manager Buck Showalter were
looking for a solution.<br />
<br />
In the middle of that month, the Baltimore Orioles did something bold
and head-scratching at the same time. They promoted Manny Machado from
Double-A Bowie to the majors.<br />
<br />
At first, I was bewildered at the news. I wondered why they would
promote a 20-year-old who was only hitting .266 at the time with eleven
home runs in 400 or so at-bats at Bowie?<br />
<br />
Furthermore, the organization announced Machado would play third base –
a position he manned only twice in the minors. When I heard that, I too
shook my head; however, if Machado could play much better than Reynolds
at third, then why not?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/o-s-took-a-chance-and-gamble-with-machado-has-paid-off.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-9793179589315782552013-05-08T06:53:00.000-07:002013-05-12T06:53:38.687-07:00Wei-Yin Chen signs with Scott Boras<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Wei-Yin Chen #16 of the Baltimore Orioles pitches against the Boston Red Sox during the Opening Day game on April 8, 2013 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. " src="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Wei+Yin+Chen+Baltimore+Orioles+v+Boston+Red+auz4nncXycZx.jpg" style="height: 262px; width: 400px;" /></div>
I would not necessarily call this major news; however, this week, Oriole left Wei-Yin switched agents.<br />
He has hired Scott Boras. You all know who he is.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-left: .5in;">
<strong><a href="http://baltimoresportsreport.com/wei-yin-chen-hires-scott-boras-40711.html">From the Baltimore Sports Report</a>:</strong> <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chenwe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-baltimoresportsreport.com" target="_blank">Wei-Yin Chen</a> has hired super agent Scott Boras to represent him <a href="https://twitter.com/JonHeymanCBS/status/331235604371226626" title="Wei-Yin Chen Hires Scott Boras">according to a tweet</a>
from Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. The O’s lefty signed a three year,
$11.388 million deal with Baltimore prior to the 2012 season and has
impressed in his first 38 big league starts.</div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
MLB Trade Rumors and Orioles Hangout have more of the news.<br />
<br />
A co-worker with the company I work for stopped me in the hallway and mentioned this to me.<br />
Then he went into a diatribe on how Scott Boras is the worst things that happened to baseball, and on and on.<br />
<br />
I say ‘whatever’.<br />
<br />
Right now, Chen going to Scott Boras isn’t a big deal. He’s with the
team until 2014, and has an option for 2015. It’s not like his deal is
up after the season.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Sports agent Scott Boras (R) talks with Washington Nationals principal owner Mark Lerner (L) during pregame warmups at Nationals Park August 21, 2009 in Washington, DC. Boras represents Stephen Strasburg, a right handed pitcher from San Diego State University and the overall first round pick in the 2009 Major League Baseball draft, who signed with the Nationals earlier this week wth a record contract for an amateur player. " src="http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Scott+Boras+Washington+Nationals+Introduce+fjy4jk2yf16x.jpg" style="height: 267px; width: 400px;" /></div>
<br />
As for Boras, I have nothing against him as a fan – or blogger. He’s
good at his job, seems to have a lot of players under his stable and
does well for his clients.<br />
<br />
Hell, professional – and even collegiate sports – is a big business.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/wei-yin-chen-signs-with-scott-boras.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-80162668967612219432013-04-26T03:28:00.000-07:002013-04-27T15:28:11.047-07:00Flying High Out WestThe Baltimore Orioles began their eleven-game West coast swing and
started off on a high note as they defeated the Oakland Athletics, 10-2.
The offense was clicking last night as every starter had a hit; Chris
Davis hit his eighth homer; both Nate McLouth and Nick Markakis plated
in two runs, plus Adam Jones – who is still red hot – had three hits.<br />
<br />
Baltimore starting pitcher Jason Hammel was not great but did his job
well. He went six innings, gave up two runs on three hits and kept the
homer happy Athletics at bay.<br />
<br />
The Orioles are now 13-9 and are two games behind the Boston Red Sox in the American League East.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/flying-high-out-weat.html">>>> Read More </a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-62654232884624021182013-04-24T15:28:00.000-07:002013-04-27T15:29:17.286-07:00About Last Night and Dylan Bundy
The Baltimore Orioles pulled off another win against the Toronto Blue
Jays last night, 4-3, as pitcher Mike Gonzalez won his second game of
the season and Jim Johnson recorded his eighth save on the young season.<br />
The Birds are now 12-8 on the season and will look for the series sweep
as Josh Stinson – who was called up from Norfolk this week – will start
the game on the mound this afternoon.<br />
<br />
Baltimore was triumphant on the night as they used a four-run second
inning and hit Toronto starter, R.A. Dickey hard. Aside from that,
Dickey was not all that terrible, but the poor frame did him in.<br />
<br />
Now that we’re on the topic of Dickey, what can you say about the
Toronto Blue Jays? They were expected to contend and take the division
according to many baseball experts; however, with an 8-13 record, they
are mired in last place in the American League East.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/about-last-night-and-dylan-bundy.html">>>> Read More </a></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-28203535505841980152013-04-23T15:32:00.000-07:002013-04-27T15:32:09.046-07:00About Last Night and Arrieta Demoted
Last night, the Orioles pulled off a walk-off victory as Nick Markakis singled in the winning run to help them win, 2-1.<br />
<br />
Chris Tillman – who started for Baltimore – pitched very, very well. He
went 6 2/3 innings, gave up a run on four hits, and was rolling until
the 6<sup>th</sup> inning. Despite solid outing on the mound, Tillman – as well as every Oriole starting pitcher – needs to go deeper into games.<br />
<br />
It’s that simple. Each and every year with the Orioles (as well as the
29 other teams in the sport), it’s about starting pitching.<br />
<br />
While the Orioles are off to a good 11-8 start, the bullpen should not
be taxed as much as it has. It is still very early, but the starters
should look towards pitching seven plus innings as night.<br />
<br />
The bullpen – which was no doubt a strength for the team last year – is
fairly deep, but as the year goes forth, the starting corps will have
to do more to ensure the Orioles keep winning.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/about-last-night-and-arrieta-demoted.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2988085063383682797.post-30419932800774272422013-04-22T15:33:00.000-07:002013-04-27T15:33:48.987-07:00The Curious Case of Jake ArrietaAh, Jake Arrieta.<br />
<br />
If you bring up his name to a lot of Orioles fans, it often does not conjure up good thoughts at all.<br />
<br />
Sunday’s game was a case exhibit for that opinion.<br />
<br />
I saw the self-destruction of Arrieta live and in person at the Yard;
however, before the game against the Dodgers, I and several season
ticket holders in my respective section pondered how many innings
Arrieta would toss.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, we all wondered when he would finally implode.<br />
<br />
“He’s going to last six innings”, said one person.<br />
<br />
“I say five, plus”, harked another.<br />
<br />
Although I consider myself an optimistic person, but I quipped, “Four and two-thirds.”<br />
<br />
For the first three frames on the mound, Arrieta looked as good as ever, and the Baltimore offense was rolling.<br />
<br />
With a comfortable cushion at the time, he breezed through a Los
Angeles lineup has that been struggling and endured a long losing skid;
however, starting in the fourth inning, the implosion happened.<br />
<br />
Walk after walk, followed up by a hit, then more walks, wiped away a 4-1 Baltimore lead which led to a 7-4 loss.<br />
<br />
The loss prevented a three-game sweep of the Dodgers.<br />
<br />
During the fourth and fifth innings, we all shook our heads and looked
up wondering, “Will he ever get it out there on the mound?”<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.oriolepost.com/baltimore-orioles/articles/the-curious-case-of-jake-arrieta.html"><b>>>> Read More </b></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15252895705916946248noreply@blogger.com0