With the season down its final two games, I’m happy this team didn’t fold towards the end like they during the past decade. It’s clearly evident with the doubleheader sweep yesterday against the Detroit Tigers and taking two-out-of-three from the playoff bound Tampa Bay Rays.
It’s obvious that the Orioles do have some keys to rebuilding what was once a proud franchise. However, it’s also pretty obvious that they need help – a big bat, perhaps another starter, help at the corner positions, and also another bullpen arm. The holes must be plugged in.
They may be better in 2011, but even with improvements, will they contend against the best in the East?
The Rays may slip some because of the inevitable departures of Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena; however, the financial wherewithal of the Yankees and Red Sox will always make them threats. The Jays, in the past several seasons have always managed to put a good team out on the field and this season is no exception.
I do think the Orioles need to make a concerted run at some free agents – the pickings may be slim – and improve the big league squad. They may not become contenders, but this franchise needs to improve and make baseball meaningful in the latter portion of this season in the region.
Then again, one has to assume changes will be on the way considering the Orioles have had 13 straight losing seasons.
The team should be bold – not reckless – and seriously find viable major league (not washed up) talent to fill in the weakness with the Baltimore Orioles.
Right now, in the immediate future, what happens to the coaches on the squad? Who stays – who goes, or are they all going to be replaced? I would imagine Showlater would want to bring his hand-picked staff into the fold – despite the success (33-22) since he took the managerial spot.
Know what I have seen out of Buck so far, I would not be surprised if he has a plan in place for next season.
