So far, in the month of April, the Baltimore Orioles have been a complete surprise in the world of Baseball.
In the offseason, I predicted the Birds would see their win total in the sub-70’s.
If they keep playing at this rate, that won’t happen.
Well, once again, the Orioles’ improbable start to the season continues its amazing storyline, as they beat the Oakland Athletics, 5-2, on Sunday. The Orioles scored five unaswered runs in the bottom of the ninth inning sending the Yard into frenzy.
No matter what happens from here on out with the Orioles, they look much improved and are a team holds a never-say-die mantra. They are supposed to suck this season, but are proving all the experts and naysayers wrong.
Statistically, they had little chance winning of the game; however, a Matt-Wieters two-run double, Oakland reliever Grant Balfour’s inability to finish off the contest, and a Wilson Betemit three-run shot made all the difference.
The Orioles got to frolic. The fans were happy and a wonderful Sunday even become more so.
I was in attendance at Camden Yards and I didn’t think the Orioles could pull out a win.
Rotund Oakland starter Bartolo Colon – at age 38 – dominated the Orioles for eight innings, until the final frame. Tommy Hunter – who started for the Orioles – looked like a potential hard-luck loser, giving up two runs in seven innings of work, providing the Birds another quality start. The offense was dead, and it didn’t seem like things were clicking.
As of now, the Baltimore Orioles at 14-8, and have sole possession of first place in the American League East. If anyone thought they would head into May as one of the better teams in baseball, you should be playing the lottery.
I would be surprised if the Orioles are in first place in June; however, let’s enjoy the ride and honestly, after what I have seen this month – anything is possible now.
I considered skipping today’s game, as I wanted to stay in New York longer – since I had to go up there for the weekend – however, I decided against it since I didn’t want a game in my season ticket plan to go to waste.
So glad I made it.
You have to give James and fans like him credit. They believed in the team, and so far their faith is being rewarded.
Finally, I completely missed the Frank Robinson’s statue unveiling. I had to go out of town on travel and could not back out of a commitment I made months ago. Therefore, I don’t have pictures or anything related to it.
In an otherwise great weekend for a monumental occasion, I was a bit sad that I missed Saturday at Camden Yards.
Even though I never Robinson saw play, I respected him greatly not only as a ballplayer, but the first African-American manager in the big leagues, and executive and more.
It looks like the statue unveiling was a wonderful occasion on Saturday, and well deserved for a man who did so much for the game of baseball.
If anyone was there, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section, or let us know about a guest post.
