Here I Go...

Due to the annoying infringement of grad school upon my reading habits, it took me a couple days to get to it, but Boswell's column in the Post about the O's is spot on. Angelos is quickly creating one of the most disgruntled fan bases in sports out of what used to be a loyal fans. He's also soiling the reputation of the organization that won more games between 1961 and 1987 than any other. The Baltimore Sun would tar and feather him at this point.

I never thought that the presence of the Nationals would matter that much if the Orioles could put together a solid team. After all, the Orioles had momentum, a great ballpark, and divisional opponents that fill the stands. However, by putting a substandard product on the field and by publicly undermining the ability of Nats fans to watch their team, Angelos has alienated a lot of the casual Orioles fans. Unfortunately, it's the casual fans that determine attendance. You're going to get your die-hards and your season-ticket holders at every game. Getting a family from Bethesda or Falls Church to come up for the game, though, is not to be taken for granted. Now you know.

In happier Orioles news, the Sun is reporting today that a new contract agreement with Melvin Mora is near, which would keep our All-Star infield intact until we have to negotiate with Roberts. The Mora-Tejada-Roberts trio is the only thing about the current Orioles that reminds longtime fans about the classic Baltimore teams. The handshake they've developed after an Orioles win actually shows a little team unity and a playful spirit. It's good to see the management trying to keep them together.