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Thread: Orioles prediction thread
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08-28-2012, 03:38 PM #25Hall Of Fame Poster
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Re: Orioles prediction thread
It's a real cool feeling having the Orioles become relevant in Aug/Sept. This team continues to surprise me. They've overachieved with a lot of production and contribution from unexpected sources. Defense has become much more crisper ever since they moved to Reynolds to first. Offense has come to life somewhat with Markakis leading off. Pitching has been decent this year. I no longer have to look at team pitching stats and see the Orioles with combined era of between 5 and 6. That was a common phenomenon during the last 14 years.
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08-28-2012, 11:05 PM #26Veteran Poster
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Re: Orioles prediction thread
On the day the Pirates release Erik Buh-Dard, the Orioles win on the backs of Chris Tillman and Adam Jones. Ironic.
And worthy of recognizing what was probably Andy MacPhail's best move as the Os GM.
(the former PeterB58)
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Re: Orioles prediction thread
I saw the Pirates released Bedard. He was a good lefty while he was here. I know I wasn't real happy to see him traded, but I did like getting Adam Jones.
Disclaimer: The content posted is of my own opinion.
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09-04-2012, 12:33 PM #28Pro Bowl Poster
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Re: Orioles prediction thread
THIS IS THE WEEK!
By far, the 4-game series hosting the Yankees at OPACY is the most important one to the Orioles organization in at least 16 years. It has ramifications that go beyond this season. IMHO, it is MORE important than a trip to the postseason or what transpires if they make it. Here are my reasons:
1. The Orioles are in the process of 'turning the tables' against NYY. In the last 14 seasons, they have been routinely dominated by the New Yorkers - a major embarrassment when they constantly 'choke' on the mound, at bat, in the field. But that has changed this season IN Yankee Stadium (6-3 against them there). However, at home, nothing has changed as yet (1-4 against them here).
2. They would never admit it to themselves, but the Yankees have become heavily dependent, year after year, on Oriole losses to inflate their win totals. Last season, the Orioles were 5-13 against them. Currently, it is now 7-7. The Orioles are winning the head-to-head games enough to have a realistic chance of clinching first place. The Yankees are missing key players and the Orioles are taking full advantage.
3. The Orioles need to approach this series with a different perspective - a 'glass half full' instead of 'glass half empty' acceptance. With all of the Yankee fans in attendance, the Orioles really should treat it as a road series and put an end to the intimidation factor. Instead of tolerating the presence of loud Yankee fans they should use the presence of Oriole fans to both motivate and relax themselves. Showalter and his players need to make this simple adjustment mentally.
4. In a division where the Yankees have routinely dominated year after year, the Orioles have a golden opportunity to make them relinquish control. By eliminating the intimidation factor alone, the Orioles can effectively compete in the AL East for years to come. And being successful in the toughest division in baseball is usually a 'launching pad' for success in the postseason.
CC
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09-04-2012, 03:22 PM #29Hall Of Fame Poster
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Re: Orioles prediction thread
Different season, different team. While I realize the Orioles are only 1-4 against the yanks, overall a 7-7 record doesn't indicate any kind intimidation here. Furthermore the yankees will be facing a hot Orioles team. Let's hope that we keep the momentum going. The next 10 days are the most critical part of the season.
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09-27-2012, 12:28 AM #30Pro Bowl Poster
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Re: Orioles prediction thread
Three things to celebrate thus far:
1. Over 90 wins.
2. Team ERA down below 4.00.
3. Leading the AL wild car race.
Still have a realistic chance to win the division crown. But it will require a sweep of the Red Sox at home and winning two of three in Tampa (while the Yankees split their four games in Toronto and NOT sweep the Red Sox in New York). Showalter's handling of the rotation will be crucial. Current best starters: Hammel (when he is available), Steve Johnson, Tillman, Gonzales, Saunders. At least one of the original starters will probably have to 'step up' (Hunter, Chen, Arrietta, Matusz - maybe Britton).
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