I’ve always wondered what influence Buck Showalter had on the Orioles this past season. With Spring Training upon us within the next month or so, a lot of fans are looking to 2011 with increased optimism with how the team finished up last season.
The more I think about it, he had a considerable aura over the Orioles over the past two months.
Think of it, the Orioles were a horrible team – close to being historically so, until Showalter showed up.
Now, even though Showalter had pretty much the same talent that both the deposed Dave Trembley and Juan Samuel had, I think he shook up the players — to an extent.
Really, while his record with the Orioles was impressive, the team’s play could be attributed to some of the players performing well above their norms, a healthy roster – the return of Roberts, Uehara (very critical), Gonzalez – in addition, to the starting pitching performing much better halted a train wreck.
Also, the batters (finally!) seemed to have a plan at the plate and hit much better in the clutch, plus in key situations in game. In addition, a lot of base running gaffes we saw under Trembley and Samuel seemed to decrease greatly under Showalter. They look prepared to play games after August and the record shows that.
Could the Orioles continue what they did last season?
Maybe, but a lot of things really have to go right. They will need to play much better against their AL East opponents to have any chance even finishing at .500, much more competing for the division (we hope)…
but…
First, the starting pitching this upcoming season has to resemble the last two months of 2010. Without that happening, the Orioles will not improve whatsoever.
Second, the ‘young core of the offense’ – Nick Markakis, Adam Jones, Matt Wieters (especially) – have to improve and take their games to the next level. As well, Luke Scott has to avoid the devastating slumps that have hampered him throughout his career.
Third, let’s hope Lee has a bounce back year and Reynolds hits above his weight.
Finally, the team needs it’s players to be healthy. Yes, it is part of baseball – and all sports – to have injuries rear their ugly head, but for the Orioles that bug derailed their 2010 season.
