| 16 June 2011
Morning everyone!
Once again, it is frustrating to see yet another losing streak with the Orioles. They have now lost four straight games, after their loss in Toronto last night to the Blue Jays.
On Tuesday, they had a nice comeback after felling behind - of course they lost - however, on Wednesday, the offense was listless. Jake Arrieta did all right, but took the loss on the night, as the bats cold not wake up.
Now at 30-35 and 9 games behind the American League East leading Boston Red Sox, the Orioles are mired in last place in the division. That is a position where they have gotten used to for way too long. At this point, although the team is far and away a lot better than they were last year, I do not sense any happiness over the situation. With that being said, one could say the Orioles are way too talented, even with the young pitching to be five games under .500.
They are still making silly mistakes from time to time (Tuesday's display in the field, for example), and yes, ugh, the offense is so inconsistent.
I still project the Orioles to win between 75-78 games. However, it is particularly disconcerting to see the offense still struggle, especially considering the additions made to them. Derrek Lee has been scuffling at the plate seemingly all season and is only batting .219; meanwhile, fans know what they have have gotten out of Mark Reynolds so far -- offensively and defensively -- and Vladimir Guerrero has been all right, but has not hit with power.
Iick Markakis looks to be breaking out of his slump and Brian Roberts still on the shelf. In spite of everything, Adam Jones, Matt Wieters and J.J. Hardy have been playing extremely well and have been solid this season.
At this point, the Orioles are extraordinarily lucky to not be worse than their record indicates. I know fans expect more -- and I do too -- however, I am satisfied with the team for the time being. I do not think they have a winning season, unless they go on a nice extended run and play with a lot more consistency.
In other news, Mark Connor resigned as pitching coach for the Orioles for personal reasons. It sounds like based on various media reports that the job is too much of a grind with the travel and responsibilities. Who know if this is the true story, or something else might come to light; nevertheless, life goes on. I can imagine with the travel, the level of commitment that is needed with a major league job, plus going from city-to-city-city umpteen times a week, plus the sacrifice you need to make may be too much for a man at his stage in life. Whatever happens, the best of luck...
Finally, the Baltimore Sun reported that the Orioles and J.J. Hardy's representatives are in talks for a contract extension. Personally, as a fan, I'd say do it. He has been an excellent addition to the team, and hits for average, has some pop; in addition, plays remarkably smooth defense at short. Hardy would serve as a perfect bridge at the position until touted youngster Manny Machado is ready to reach the majors.
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