As most Oriole fans know, Buck Martinez left MASN this week for a broadcasting job with the Toronto Blue Jays.
Well, it looks like the network has already begun a search for a replacement and an old school Oriole — Mike Flanagan, the former front office executive, pitcher, coach, and one-time broadcaster — has discussed becoming an analyst. However, he’s not the only person being considered…
Buck Martinez, who had broadcasted Orioles games for the past seven seasons, left MASN this week to become the play-by-play man for the Toronto Blue Jays on Rogers SportsNet.
“We’ve spoken to Mike, but we will speak with probably 20 other people before it’s all said and done,” Webster said.
Flanagan acknowledged that he’s had discussions with MASN officials, but he didn’t want to comment further. Flanagan, who has spent this year in a transitional period after being a top executive for the organization for six years, has had two stints as an Orioles color commentator. He has spent four decades in the organization in various roles, from Cy Young-winning pitcher, to pitching coach to the top decision maker in the front office.
I’m not sure who else MASN has interviewed; however, looking back at part of my childhood in which I’d watch Oriole games down in Washington, Flanagan was solid behind the mic. Ok, I can only give so much perspective from that long back, but reading some of the other forums and articles about this topic, he was suitable.
He’s got experience playing the game, he’s a former executive and knows the organization well as anyone. I think he’d be a good fit, though I am not sure how his relationship with the team is at this point.
***
I’ll miss Chris Ray with the Orioles, despite he traded for Kevin Millwood in a move that was obvious to anyone who paid attention. He was nothing but classy towards the organization with quite a few few comments in a piece by Keff Zrebiec for the Baltimore Sun. I’ll be rooting for him as Ranger.
In the meantime, the Royals want Felix Pie. As we have seen with Andy MacPhail, it’s not in his M.O. to give talent away. The Royals will need to give away something of value in order to land Pie. Again, Pie grew on many fans last year by playing through hard times and coming through when he garnered playing time.
In other news, Brian Bass was non-tendered, while Jeremy Guthrie and Luke Scott were offered contracts. Cla Meredith and Matt Albers came to terms with the team for 2010.
***
Finally, down the road in Washington, the Nationals signed catcher and future Hall-of-Famer, Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez to a deal that raised many eyebrows (including mine) in the game.
They gave him a 2-year, $6 million contract to serve as a backup and mentor to young catcher Jesus Flores — who is coming back from injury.
The guy is a leader, plus a competitor, but he’s well past his expiration date. I think the move is a net plus for Washington; however, Washington went well above and beyond what’s he worth on the market.
The only thing I can gather is that the Nats wanted Pudge to be an influence on the Latin players, but more importantly, the clubhouse. Well, you know he isn’t going to take some of the crap that the world saw on the field lightly if he’s going to be on the that squad. If anything, Washington need someone who will make those who fail accountable.
If you want more perspective on the Rodriguez deal, check out what the Nats Blog, Nats320, Nationals New Network & Fire Jim Bowden have to say about the move.
