The Party Is Over For Millar in Baltimore...

Baseball is much of a business as it is a fun game, or a way to relax and escape the pressures of life at least for a few hours.

Kevin Millar yesterday spoke to The Sun's Peter Schmuck, and more or less found out the hard way that the Baltimore Orioles are moving on, and will probably not extend an invitation for him to be part of the squad in '09.

I loved Millar's attitude and spirit with the Orioles; however, even I feel the team should give Huff a chance to play the position everyday or get younger at that spot.

The fun-loving first baseman expressed himself, and he was nothing short of candid, if even heart broken.

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Kevin Millar on the MLB Network

While Kevin Millar tries to find work with the Baltimore Orioles or whoever, the fun-loving first-baseman/designated hitter served as one of the co-hosts on the "Hot Stove" show Thursday night on the MLB Network.

Millar chatted a little bit about what is going on in the game today, and as well had a segment at the end of the show about hitting at Fenway Park (groan). I guess his heart has not been too far away from Boston when it comes down to it. The clips are also viewable on mlb.com.

Oh well, but he's still a good guy, and I enjoyed him in Baltimore.

>>> Check out the new blog at oriolepost.com

2008 Grades: The Infield, Part One

Since we're well into the off-season now, I'm going to spend the next week or so and go through the roster and assign players grades along with some brief opinion what I think of them.

First Baseman, Kevin Millar
2007 Numbers: .234, 20 HR, 72 RBI, .323 OBP, .394 SLG, 145 games
Grade: D

Kevin Millar has had a fine career, but his career his obviously close to the end of the road as evidenced by the last two months of the season.

He was a decent glove at first base, and provided some pop; otherwise that, he didn't instill a lot of confidence with me at all. Keep in mind, his numbers weren't terrible, but they are not what you expect from a first baseman at all these days and his numbers were down all across the board based on what he's done career-wise.

Millar is a great clubhouse guy, and a fan favorite; however, he's 37, and I'd like the organization to move on from him along with see what's out on the market.

Hell, I'd rather give Huff first base than him, but I have a sneaking suspicion that he'll find his way back to Baltimore if we can't sign a slugging first baseman.

Second Baseman, Brian Roberts
2007 Numbers: 155 games, .296 AVG, 9 HR, 57 RBI, 40 SB, .378 OBP, .450 SLG, 51 SB's
Grade: A-/B+

Brian is no doubt one of the faces of the organization through his charity work and interaction with the fans, and his 2008 season once again proved why he's one of the best lead-off and second baseman in baseball.

He's a good all around player with speed, some power, hits for average, and was solid from the start of the season to the end.

Whether he should be traded is another topic, but I think if the Orioles consider his age (almost 31) to be an issue and do a full rebuilding program, he might be a name (to the sadness of some fans) that could, and probably should be moved if he and the team cannot come to terms on an extension.

Aubrey Huff, First/Third Base/DH
2007 Numbers: .304 AVG, 32 HR, 108 RBI, .360 OBP, .552 SLG, 48 2B
Grade: A

I didn't know what to expect about of Huff this season, but I was pleasantly surprised and elated at what he did at plate.

Considering the way he started things off with fans before the season with his appearance on the "Bubba The Love Sponge Show", the boos he encountered early turned to cheers because his bat did the talking for him.

He finally broke through in 2008 and showed why the Orioles bestowed such a contract on him in the first place. His numbers steadily improved throughout the season, and he kept the offense rolling, especially in the summer months.

I don't know if his season was an aberration, or a sign that he's back as a force at the plate, but the Orioles should be looking for a lot from him in 2009.

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Millar

Kevin Millar has been a mainstay of the Baltimore Orioles for the past several years, and every once in a while, he posts a blog on the MLB Orioles site chronicling his life in the majors.

In perhaps his final entry on the site (a very long one), he talks about his time in Baltimore and how he still wants to be part of the organization despite the rebuilding.

Here’s an excerpt:

From the orioles.com: It’s just one of those things, but this team is not as far away as some people think. We just have to find a way to get some more starting pitching, and that’s not easy. It’s the organization’s plan to add some arms, and they’ll move from there. But aside from finishing last in the standings, you have to see some bright spots. You look at George Sherrill and Adam Jones and what they meant to us, and you look at Dennis Sarfate and Luke Scott, the guys they got back in some of the trades from last winter. Aside from the record, there were a lot of bright spots for whomever is willing to look for them.

Personally, my situation is the same. I’ve made it known that I’d like to come back here. I’ve made it known that I enjoy bringing energy to this clubhouse and I’ve enjoyed the three years that I’ve played here. It’s been phenomenal. Hopefully, they know who I am, but I’m angry at myself and I’m almost embarrassed at the way I finished. I did not swing the bat well the last six weeks, and the reality is that you’ve got to hit in this league. I scuffled, but they know I fight tooth and nail every day. I know it’s general manager Andy MacPhail’s job to go out and test the market, but if things work out, I’d love to be the first baseman here. I have a lot of work to do this offseason to prove something and to personally swing the bat the way I’m capable of.

For anyone who had watched the team for the last couple of seasons, it’s obvious that Kevin brought some fun, mentoring, and well-needed leadership at times to the Baltimore Orioles.

At this point, though — does he even deserve to be on the 2008 roster?

Well, he was a good soldier; however, at this point, it’s time for the Orioles to move on and perhaps find a younger, power bat — can we say, Mark Teixiera — or have Huff at first. But as a fan, I enjoyed having him around and maybe if there’s a fit, he should come back. Sadly, at this point, we have to look at the road ahead and get some new blood in.

The organization has enough men already on the wrong side of thirty, and the team may not need another one.

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The O's Comeback Again: Defeat Houston 2-1 in 10 Innings

For the second night in a row, the Orioles once again had another come-from-behind victory as they beat Houston, 2-1, in the ten innings. Kevin Millar poked a base hit up the middle off of Houston closer Jose Valverde in the 10th inning to drive in Adam Jones and send the crowed at Oriole Park at Camden Yards rocking home.

The Orioles were buoyed by Luke Scott's homer in the seventh inning that tied the game, and once again, the bullpen kept the game close when Chad Bradford pitched two scoreless innings for the win.

Once again, Jeremy Guthrie pitched his heart out -- however, once again, the de-facto ace of the staff earned the no decision. His only mistake was giving up a solo homer -- a bomb -- to one of the best hitters in the NL, Lance Berkman in the top of the seventh inning.

Guthrie's final line: 8 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 8 K.

Perhaps if he was on any other team, he might have easily earned the 'W', but with the Orioles, the lack of run support for Guthrie seems to be standard operating procedure. Guthrie has a sub four ERA, and with that alone, he should have at least a .500 record, if not above it -- alas, the Orioles don't score runs for him which has now become some crazy epidemic.

Once again, Oriole Magic came alive as Baltimore was able to pull out the win, and make things exciting for fans; however, all these comebacks may set a dangerous precedent.

Is the bullpen going to always deal with added pressure to keep the game close when the the Orioles are always seemingly behind? Are the hitters going to start pressing? And finally, what happens when the luck runs out? (Disagree with me, but the law of averages may start to catch up with the Orioles).

Well, the starting pitching needs to go deeper, and the Orioles have to be a lot more effective when they have men in scoring position.

It sounds simple enough, but it's always easier said than done.

The comebacks may be great for us fans, as we are getting no doubt our money's worth; however, I think they can only keep this up for so long.

A Cooked Bird: The Orioles Turkeys of 2007…

Well, being that we are in the holiday season, and Thanksgiving is around along corner with Black Friday, where everyday sane people go all psychotic for deals on toys and stuff that they will use for a week and forget about, the Baltimore Orioles have been a source of entertainment along with a lot of pain.

That being said, I want us all here to pick the 'Oriole Turkey' of the year. Yes, being that the organization was bad once again in 2007 and brought us infamous moments such as the Mother's Day Massacre, the 30-3 game, and the national press that our players have gotten (obviously for nothing good), we might was honor infamy and general badness.

Here are my eleven choices...

***

Now, let's get started:

Our First Entry; Sam Perlozzo's Management Decisions and the Mother's Day Massacre: Yes, we all remember this day and there's no need to go over it.

Our Second Entry: Danys Baez, simply ineffective and a complete waste of money. He was just bad and now will probably miss 2008 due to elbow surgery.

Our Third Entry: Jay Gibbons. After a promising start to his career, he's forgotten how to hit. Um, steroids are supposed to make you better, aren't they?

Our Fourth Entry: The 30-3 Game. No need for the details. Furthermore, this happened on Dave Trembley's first day on the job...

Our Fifth Entry: Brian Roberts calling out the Oriole fans for not coming to Camden Yards and supporting the Orioles; Entry 5A:Peter Angelos welcoming Yankee & Red Sox fans to Baltimore...

Our Sixth Entry: Daniel Cabrera throwing at the Red Sox's Dustin Pedroia's head and nearly causing a brawl...

Our Seventh Entry: Melvin Mora for this statement: “I’m one of the best third basemen in the American League and in baseball. If you are going to move me, you have to make the team more competitive.”

Our Eighth Entry: Kevin Millar and his homerism of the Red Sox...

Our Ninth Entry: Aubrey Huff besmirching Baltimore, his love for porn stars, women, and his stupidity...

Our Tenth Entry: Our former two-head GM outfit for not realizing what we all knew -- this team is not good and is in trouble. Not to forget, spending $42 million on a BULLPEN!

Our Eleventh Entry, Just For A Cheap Pop: Peter Angelos and the Tenth Losing Season in Baltimore...

***

Ok, so here are my eleven choices. Alas, I am probably missing a few more, but you all more than free to chime in and post whatever infamous moments or people we can think of.

The floor is yours.

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Millar, His Movations & FOX

Um, anyone think Millar's antics of last weekend may have gotten him a job after his playing career like with FOX? Or maybe the Worldwide Sports Leader, AKA ESPN?

I think that might have been his motivation (aside from his friends and the Red Sox) angle. Millar may be a funny character, but I doubt he's stupid...

It's as much business as it was being a 'fan'

Millar, & Quick Hits...

Well, I greatly underestimated how upset people are at the whole thing. Again, I am not going to get emotional about Kevin Millar being a cheerleader for the Red Sox during the Baltimore Orioles offseason; however, both he and the Orioles might overlooked how the whole situation would look in the eyes of fans.

I have had readers leave a few comments, and email me about either agreeing with, or some cases, vehemently disagreeing with me.

It's fine, I love discourse. I think this whole affair says a lot about what the fanbase feels towards the team, and as well how the Orioles look in the eyes of many fans.

Simply, the last ten years, the 4th place finishes, the lack of starpower and the Orioles being looked upon as national joke came to a head this week. Now, if Kevin Millar, let's say played for the Houston Astros, no one here would care, and I don't think the Houston fan base would be up in arms.

However, he did with the Orioles and insulted a good portion of Baltimore, a city where a huge portion of the football crowd still harbors a lot of ill will towards the Irsay family for jettisoning the Colts out of the city (which is more than justified.)

In the end, perhaps the Orioles can learn from this and perhaps rebuild the bridge between the team and the fans. I don't know what the future will hold for Millar, but his stature among fans from what I have seen and read online has taken a big hit.

(Hear what Millar had to say on the Dan Patrick Show... Link)

Matt Palmer in a column on the Examiner's website basically thinks Millar went against the fans with his actions in Boston, and perhaps should be traded. I don't know if I so much agree with that; however, I do think the Orioles sorely need an upgrade over Kevin Millar, just for the fact I'd prefer a younger guy with a better bat at first base.

As well, ExamiNation, on the Baltimore Examiner website has a poll and a place where you can leave comments. Considering the amount of debate that has been expounded on the boards, blogs, and websites, this issue has touched at the nerve of Baltimore sports fans.

Bill Ordine thinks the reaction says a lot about the state of baseball in Baltimore.

Check out what Camden Chat, Orioles Hangout, and the other various forums online have to say about Millar...

***
Meanwhile, Roch Kubatko in his blog spreads some good news for change, this time from the Arizona Fall League where some of the Orioles prospects are playing.

The Orioles.com Spencer Fordin looks at a myriad of topics in his latest mailbag including signing our good young players (Bedard, etc.) to long term deals, the starting pitching, Barry Bonds and Nick Markakis.

Press Box's Craig Heist interviews Leo Mazzone about losing his job and along with his time in Baltimore, as well as gets in a few words with new pitching coach, Rick Kranitz.

Stan Charles opines that things are not as bad as it may seem with the Orioles in terms of drawing talent and personnel -- personally, I beg to differ, as the numbers don't lie. However, he does make several great points in his article and it is very much worth reading.

Oriole Fans Are Very Pissed at Kevin Millar

Well, on the blogosphere, the internet and on talk radio, the whole issue of Kevin Millar taking part in the ALCS for the Red Sox seemed to be a bit much to swallow for the vast majority of Baltimore Orioles fans. I can see why fans are upset, but honestly, I think the Orioles have far more to worry about than a player acting as a quasi-cheerleader for another team.

It's gotten so ugly that fans are demanding Millar get released and also are taking shots at Orioles Chief Operating Officer, Andy MacPhail for approving Millar's participation in the ALCS.

Personally, I think it's not a big deal -- we are talking about a guy who has been average with the Orioles for the past several seasons; however, the way I have seen people react, it would be akin to Cal Ripken deciding to sever ties with the Orioles.

(Click here for a previous post with a few videos with Millar at Fenway Park...)

When it is all said and done, his legacy (if he has one), will be with part of the Red Sox, and Baltimore would serve as a stop in the final legs of his career.

I know we would like to think athletes care as much for the team they play for as we ardently do; alas, some do, but the majority don't. A lot of the players look at sports as a business, and I am not saying Millar does or does not; however, at face value, most athletes do not swear loyalty to a region, unless they have truly fallen in love with the area or have roots there.

I guess this incident says a lot about us as sports fans, as rather than about athletes.

Maybe I don't care as much because for me, sports are more or less a diversion or entertainment rather than something vital in my life.

***

Jeff Zrebiec in today's Baltimore Sun reports on the whole incident and gets a few words from Millar, fans, and team officials. Really, again, I don't think is as big of a deal as it should be, but it shows that fans care. I right now don't feel too bad for Millar, but I'm sure he's very shocked at the reaction his activities up in Boston are causing in this part of the world.

David Steele thinks the fans should not be upset at Millar, an Baltimore Examiner sports blog, Tony's Timeout gives their take on the situation.

Meanwhile, Roch Kubatko reports in his blog that Oriole manager Dave Trembley has given a "no comment" to the situation -- interesting. Either Dave is very pissed at the news and at Millar, decided it was useless commenting, or was told not to.

Sean Welsh of the Examiner gives us more insight in to incident, how it came about, and insight from Kevin Millar.

Glenn Clark and Mark Suchy from the WNST blogs are insulted that Millar acted as a quasi-cheerleader for the Red Sox.

***

Well, it looks like B.J. Surhoff is not going to be part of the Orioles' coaching staff, as according to the Baltimore Sun: "The Orioles offered a coaching position to B.J. Surhoff, but the former player declined, saying he isn't able to commit fully at this point. Surhoff might still work with the club during spring training."

Oriole Fans Pissed at Kevin Millar...

Kevin, I really didn't care what you did last weekend; but boy, you have pissed off a lot of people who root for the Orioles. Francona's response was priceless, although the vats majority of fans on the net who root for Baltimore are none too pleased.

For those who missed it, or have no idea what has been chatted about - here we go. I had not seen the coverage from NESN until now, but he seems to be relishing it and he used the word "we" a few times. Hmmm.

Guess his heart still has not really left the Red Sox.

Videos below...

Kevin Millar: In Bad Taste?; What is the Worth of the Orioles?

We, as fans always wants to believe our athletes are loyal to our region and us, not only because of the money and emotional investment put forth, but because sports reinforces regional pride and esteem.

Well, Kevin Millar has put athlete loyalty and the team they play for to the test.

I mentioned the contribution of Millar towards the Red Sox and his TV spot in game six of the ALCS, and he throwing out the first pitch in game seven.

While some agreed with what I posted online yesterday here and on Oriole Magic, if you span the rest of the Oriole blogs, forums and websites, fans are not happy at all with Millar's antics.

By far, the most vocal of fans have been at Orioles Hangout discussing the issue; however, I am far more concerned with what Millar does on the field and in an Oriole uniform than I am with some stuff he does with the Red Sox in the post-season. Millar, I think likes Baltimore, but has no real ties to here, and it is obvious to me, he has a lot of affection towards the Red Sox organization.

On top of it all, according the media, Andy MacPhail approved it, so the Oriole brass must have not made a big deal about it. In the end, it seems like more athletes like where they play and love the income, than showing undying loyalty to an organization.

Someone like Derek Jeter is different from the norm, a lot down deep may feel like Manny Ramirez in terms of their loyalty to their team, fanbase and region.

Again, I may be different, but in the end, as Millar does his job as an Oriole, that's good enough for me. As I have gotten older, I have taken sports for what it is -- entertainment, rather than something that is a faux parable of life.

Roch Kubatko, Bill Ordine, and Camden Chat have more thoughts on Kevin Millar.

***

Meanwhile, in light of the horrible baseball that has been played by the Orioles for the past decade and the ever declining crowds at Camden Yards -- guess what? The Oriole are making money hand over fist.

That's right.

The Baltimore Sun's Childs Walker reports on the club's financial health, and it's pretty good. Most of the team's value comes from MASN, obviously and a deal by MLB as part of the negotiations to bring the Montreal Expos into Washington.

From the report:

Because of the excellent fiscal health of Major League Baseball, the creation of the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network by Orioles owner Peter Angelos and the league, and the continuing adoration for Camden Yards, the Orioles are worth more than ever before, investment bankers and financial analysts say.

The team is valued at about $400 million, says John A. Moag, president of Moag and Co., a Baltimore-based investment banking firm that specializes in sports transactions. And MASN, which is 90 percent owned by the team, is worth at least another $400 million, he said.

That's a far cry from the $173 million (about $240 million in today's dollars) that Angelos and his partners paid for the Orioles in 1993.

I would not be surprised at all with the assessment. Much of the value seems to be built upon the reputation of Camden Yards, along with the potential of the cable TV network, which the Orioles have almost all the ownership of.

If the Orioles ever became competitive again and could build up the network to the level of NESN or YES, the organization would be in far better condition than it is now and would bring an obvious level of respect back to baseball in the region.



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Kevin Millar and the Red Sox...

For all the Oriole fans out there, I am opening up the floor -- does anyone have a problem Kevin Millar appearing on Fox rooting and rallying on the Red Sox in a sport before Game Six? Furthermore, does anyone have a problem with him appearing before Game Seven throwing out the first pitch when he is a current Oriole?

Me, I don't have a problem; however, some might. I think it's a good thing that the Red Sox organization have the doors wide open for Kevin (to an extent) and there seems to be no bitterness on his part. Considering his significance in Red Sox history in the past decade, I guess it is somewhat appropriate.

The floor is yours.

From the Archives: Kevin Millar Giving Love to Paul Bako with Erik Bedard

(click to see the large image...)

Sorry, I found this the other day in my archives while compiling an upcoming gallery of pictures to be posted on this blog. I was at Yankee Stadium on a freezing Sunday when I got a chance to snap this picture.

As we all know, Kevin Millar is a fun loving guy, and as they were walking to the dugout, he decided to show Paul Bako, the Orioles backup catcher some love. In the image, you also see pitcher Erik Bedard accompanying them.

Kevin Millar at the ESPN Zone in Baltimore this Afternoon: Photos and Impressions...

Kevin Millar was at the ESPN Zone this afternoon in Downtown Baltimore at the Inner Harbor and about 150-200 fans took out a moment of their afternoon to hear him talk about the state of the team, his career as well answer questions from loyal Oriole fans. Local sports personality, Tom Davis served as the mediator for the event.

I really didn’t take any notes on what he said partly because I arrived late, and by the time I got there, it was standing room only.

Fans had the opportunity to win free tickets to Orioles games by answering trivia about Millar and about the Orioles.

My impression of Kevin Millar from afar is that in light of the drama, or perhaps turmoil going on with the Baltimore Orioles, he seems to be very personable, positive, insightful about the sport and very down to earth when dealing with the fans.

Although he may be regulated to part-time duty for now, Millar is one of my favorite Orioles due to his attitude, personality and love for the game.

Note: The shots are not the greatest quality, as the lighting inside the facility was just horrible.

Pictures:

Kevin Millar at the ESPN Zone in Baltimore this Thursday!

Oriole favorite Kevin Millar will offer candid answers and will share insight on the first two months of the Orioles season, as he addresses fans at a lunchtime question-and-answer session at ESPN Zone Baltimore.

Fans of the Orioles first baseman will be able to win prizes, including tickets to an upcoming Orioles game, by answering trivia questions about Millar’s career.

After the Q&A, which will be hosted by an Orioles broadcaster, Millar will sign autographs for all the fans on hand for the event.

The event will take place on Thursday, May 24th at 12PM

- Thanks to Formula PR for the announcement....

Live From the Yard: Red Sox vs. O's Tonight -- Thorne, Schilling, Millar and the Meeting of the Minds...

Hey all,

I am here at the Yard and I'll try to blog from the game tonight. Well, if you all have not been to a Red Sox/O's game at the Yard, there are not many of us.

There's a sea of red and blue here, and that's the way it always is.

Anyhow, Gary Throne and Terry Francona met during batting practice, and it was a media circus.

As well, Curt Schilling, Kevin Millar, Doug Mirabelli and Francona met and conferenced as well.

Pictures below.

Game time in about 1/2 a hour so.

It's Beckett versus Loewen tonight...

Quick Hits

* The Baltimore Sun’s David Steele muses about an amazing week in Baltimore, with Cal’s induction vote and the upcoming playoff game here in the city against the Colts.

* If you’re going to Cooperstown, you’d better act on getting a room – fast.

* Orioles.com beat writer Spencer Fordin takes a look at the depth of the team at the first, third & (mainly infield) spots, now that Huff is on the team. Huff will be expected to play a variety of positions, and Millar will perhaps get a lot of starts at first, while Jay will DH and play some first and outfield. Huff may sub for Mora when he needs a free day. It all depends on what happens in Spring Training and Sam Perlozzo.

* More on Ripken from Spencer Fordin. Cal wants to acquire the Orioles at some point.

* Cal was in New York City along with Tony Gwynn for a media day.

* Tony Pente of the popular Orioles’ Hangout site gives us his reflections of being on Cal’s press conference right after the announcement was made.

* A fellow blogger at Oriole Central on the day of Cal’s induction takes a look back at game 2131 and gives his reflections. It was great to read that and anyone who saw that game was reminded of what the O’s used to be, and importantly being able to witness such a historic moment that evokes such powerful emotions, more than 11 years later.

* The Roar from 34 blog ponders should be B-Rob be traded? At this point, I don’t know considering what the team has done, and for now I’d say he’s still one of building blocks for the future. However, if we get a deal that’s overwhelming, something needs to happen for the good of the team.

Honorable Mention: I’d like to give the blog, Yankees Chick a shout-out. She may be a dreaded Yankees fan, but she offers great analysis and snark commentary. More importantly, she gave props to both Cal Jr. and Cal Sr. recently, which makes her all right in my book.

Also, I’d like you to take a look at Dugout Diary by Joe Boesch. I like his blog in general and his insight towards the game.

As well, My Baseball Bias – An AL East Blog. He’s been at it a short while, but he’s put together an impressive body of work!

Last, but not least, take a look at Inside the Monster, an impressive look at the Red Sox and baseball, by young blogger Mike Edelman. He’s a good guy and really knows his stuff!

Quick Hits - The O's First Base Issue, Potential Players, D-Train and an Old Friend...

The latest article in the Baltimore Sun about the Orioles' offseason ponders the latest issue: who's at first base? Right now, Kevin Millar is slotted to play the position, and Jay Gibbons wants a chance to play in the field rather than be a platoon guy or everyday DH, so he's also in the scene to become the everyday first baseman. Both guys will get their chance to show what they have in spring training unless the Orioles make a deal to get a more established first baseman within the organization.

The article highlights that the Orioles have been scouring the league for first baseman available via trade, with names such as Chris LaRoche of the Braves and the Mariners' Ben Broussard. As well, the O's have been talking to the agents for Carlos Pena, Aubrey Huff and Craig Wilson.

In the same article, the O's took a look at outfielder Shannon Stewart in a workout, and could be interested considering his injuries in the past few years and if the price is right.

As well, Mark Mulder's name was brought up in the article, but the O's aren't looking at him to join the rotation.

Also, Todd Williams, who was non-tendered by the team, may come back if the O's offer him a contract.

• Yikes, Say it ain't so! One of my and my little brother's favorite players, along with one of the most popular players in the game, the Florida Marlins ace pitcher Dontrelle Willis, aka the D-Train, was arrested Friday morning in Miami on suspicion of drunk driving. Link: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2705991


• An old ex-friend wants to return to baseball: Former O's and Cubs outfielder Sammy Sosa wants to return to the big leagues and hopes a team will take a chance on him. He's currently training in the Dominican Republic and asserts a number of teams are interested in him. According the article from ESPN, Sammy feels baseball has since turned its back on him, calling it a "blow" to not have received offers to come back during this year's season. Link: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2705612

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