Today is Martin Luther King Day throughout the United States of America. Although the nation has made great strides since the turbulent 1960’s in terms of equality and civil rights, let’s not forget King’s struggle and the work that still has to be done.
We live in some crazy times now, but let’s try to incorporate the message that King forth.
Moving on…
The biggest news to come out of the week so far with the Orioles is that Adam Jones avoided arbitration.
On Sunday, the two sides agreed to one-year, $3.25 million pact according to the Baltimore Sun.
Jones got a nice raise heading into his fourth full season; however, in my opinion, he’s not even scratched the surface of his talent yet.
Obviously, he’s still learning, but when I’m watching the action from my seat, my mind is saying, “he’s all right, but he could be … well, so much more.”
The center fielder has developed quite a bit since he first debuted as an Oriole, and at 25, he looks to be a star in the making.
Then again, he’s got quite a bit of stuff to work on. Although Jones hit a robust .284 with 19 homers and 69 RBIs on a mediocre team and was shuffled throughout the lineup quite bit in 2010, I feel quite underwhelmed by him so far.
Jones still has a problem at times with plate discipline, be more selective on pitches he sees, base running and lapses in the field at times. Honestly, I think Jones should be utilizing his speed more on the bases and I’m not sure if it’s a matter of him not knowing what to do — or some reluctance.
He looks like a guy who should be hitting at 25 homers, stealing 20-plus bases, and driving in at least 85 runs. We all know he’s a Gold Glove and can make the highlight play – really, I would just like for him to be more consistent and focused on the field.
Jones seems to have the personality to be not only a leader, but a renowned young star in the same breath as an Evan Longoria, Jay Bruce or Ryan Braun; however, he needs to elevate his game.
If he can take his game to the next level, the Orioles are sure to follow.
