I think at this point the Orioles would sacrifice all of their home games this season to move to any other division in the MLB. The O’s haven’t had a winning season since the Ripken era circa 1997, where they landed the best record in the league and a swift loss to the Indians in the ALCS. Other than that season, it’s been over a decade of designated and elongated Yankee and Red Sox beatings, not to mention the occasional annoying Blue Jay chirp in the ear.
The O’s have gradually progressed over the last couple years though, according to Buck Showalter. If you want to chalk up moving from 64 wins in 2009, to 66 wins in 2010, to 69 wins in 2011, as a reasonable progression; then by all means prance around and jump in joy in your fantasy little league baseball field. Buck may not know how to win without Cal Ripken’s golden-laced Hall of Fame glove, but he does know why his team can’t keep up with the A.L. East, and the rest of the MLB for that matter. Pitching.
With the way the A.L. East is thriving, changing and growing each year, it’s almost impossible to keep up without making substantial off-season changes. The off-season suddenly becomes a speed chess match for teams trying to upgrade their teams, and the elite A.L. East teams always seem to have their hands in every basket. The O’s are no different. Taking the “fell on the floor” cake in team pitching numbers last year, with the league’s worst ERA, quality starts, and WHIP; you bet your keister they’ll be looking for pitching at the winter meetings. Probably should look for some big swingers too. And a few bulls for the pen while they’re at it. Why not? The Yanks, Sox, Rays, and Jays are doing it. However, not to burst any O’s fan’s bubble, that’s not going to be enough for the O’s to get back on the pre-millennium saddle.
What would be enough? An “Angels in the Outfield-esk” miracle, but instead of the Angel, an Oriole would be sent for the MLB Gods’ bidding. Like I said… a miracle. Hey, it’s could happen.
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