What does the current four game win streak mean for the Orioles? I don’t know if much right now. The Orioles could easily fall back into their bad habits, but…
Well, at least they are starting to show signs of life and over the weekend they did the little things to sweep the Nationals. In addition, the Orioles got some nice performances from their bullpen especially Jason Berken (who might merit some All-Star consideration, but middle/long relievers are often overlooked), Mark Hendrickson, David Hernandez and Alfredo Simon.
I’m going to go off the beaten path and say that the Nationals helped out the Orioles big-time by giving away three games which they had the lead; however, at this point, who cares how they did it, it matters that they stopped the losing temporarily.
Well, I am not going to say the win streak means much right now considering the Orioles are firmly entrenched in last place in the American League East. The bats – thankfully – are starting come alive, and Adam Jones’s average has snuck above .270, Wieters is hitting – finally, Miggy’s average is now .287 and Scott Moore has come through with clutch hits at the right time.
At this point, as long as the team can build on this nice streak and play some consistent baseball for the next 87 games or so, hopefully things can finish strong in the 2010 season. Then again, it remains to be seen who’s dealt at the trade deadline as Millwood, Tejada and Guthrie are getting some looks from scouts and opposing teams.
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Some friends and I had a discussion over the weekend as to who Baltimore’s All-Star should be in Anaheim for the Midsummer Classic in a few weeks. The names that popped up in our heads were Ty Wigginton, Nick Markakis and Jason Berken. All three have strengths and their merit should not be in question, but our overwhelming pick was Markakis, although Berken got a lot of consideration.
Markakis, I think, will be more than likely chosen because he’s been fairly consistent throughout the year (along with a great glove and arm), despite having a poor year with his power numbers. Wigginton perhaps has the best power stats on the team, aside from Luke Scott; however, he’s not hit for much power as of late and perhaps playing everyday may have over-exposed him.
Berken, however, would be an interesting case for All-Star consideration. I don’t see many long/middle relievers ever make the All-Star team, but he’s been by far the most consistent pitcher of the staff.
Who do you think makes the All-Star team?
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It was nice seeing all the legends and players from the 1970 World Championship team being trotted out on the during Saturday’s pre-game festivities; however, what I found even more notable from some of them is what was said about the state of the organization in a press conference. It wasn’t sure easy for some to hear, but all of what was said is true, needed to be mentioned, and the men who spoke had the credibility to do so.
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Finally, Garrett Atkins was released on Sunday and that was no surprise to anyone.
Atkins was only one year removed from several excellent season with the Rockies; however, he lost it in 2009 and looked even worse with Baltimore. He was simply a gamble that didn’t work out, but serves as a sad symbol of where the Orioles stand now.
Atkins was a nice guy who seemingly wanted to find his career again, but as it stands now, the Orioles are better off using Jake Fox and Scott Moore in their roles now. As it is, could the Orioles possibly be any worse with them in the lineup?
