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Sir Sidney Excommunicated From Texas
2008-06-08 01:48:00 Former Orioles pitcher Sidney Ponson was designated for assignment. Texas general manager Jon Daniels said Ponson, who was 4-1 with a 3.88 ERA, was sent away "for disrespecting teammates and club personnel."Right-hander Sidney Ponson, who seemed to have his career back on track, was designated for assignment by the Texas Rangers in a surprise move prior to Friday night's game against the Tampa Bay Rays.Texas general manager Jon Daniels was vague about the reasons for the decision, saying Ponson had been dumped "for disrespecting teammates and club personnel.""I'm not going to get into details other than to say that we're clearly trying to put together a team here in the true sense of the word ? and based on recent comments and other such things, it was pretty clear that he didn't want to be part of that," Daniels said."That's not something we're going to tolerate. We want guys who want to be here, guys who are going to pull for their teammates and be proud of the organization....
A Smaller Barry Bonds?
2008-06-08 01:24:00 Without a contract for 2008 and with time to perhaps reflect or whatever, Barry Bonds does look considerably smaller in this video from ESPN.Well, on Friday, he pleaded not guilty to 15 federal charges of lying to a grand jury about his performance-enhancing drug use and the Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative in 2003.
Could The Rays and Red Sox Be Cancelling One Another Out?
2008-06-07 23:39:00 Ah, here's some of the fall-out from Fight Night a few days ago between the Rays and Red Sox...Boston Red Sox outfielder Coco Crisp, Tampa Bay Rays pitcher James Shields and six other players were suspended yesterday after a brawl at Fenway Park.Three Red Sox were suspended: Crisp for seven games, pitcher Jon Lester for five games and first baseman Sean Casey for three games.Major League Baseball disciplinarian Bob Watson penalized five Rays: Shields for six games, designated hitter-outfielder Jonny Gomes and pitcher Edwin Jackson for five games, outfielder Carl Crawford for four games and second baseman Akinori Iwamura for three games.In Boston's win Thursday, Crisp was hit by a pitch from Shields during his first at-bat and charged the mound. Mayhem soon followed.This might be a great opportunity for the O's, Blue Jays and Yankees to gain ground. It was literally stupid for the Rays -- as much like as like them -- to engage in such a thing. They have lost five - yes - five play...
Thanks Armando! O's Win Two In A Row in Canada...
2008-06-07 22:21:00 Thanks for the Present, Armando! Well, after a wretched series with the Boston Red Sox, the Orioles have won 3 out of their last 5; thus, continued the winning last night in Toronto, 6-5. The offense continued its hot streak thanks to a big inning in the eighth. Adam Jones and Melvin Mora each hit a two-run home in the frame, and Kevin Millar belted a solo homer. As well, Nick Markakis went 4- for-4 with a double, run batted in and a run scored while Brian Roberts had two hits and scored a run. Dennis Sarfate (3-1) only needed two pitches to earn the win in relief of Brian Burres, who allowed three runs on five hits in 4 1/3 innings. George Sherrill worked the ninth for his 21st save. Shaun Marcum?s nice start went out the window as he held the Orioles to one run on seven hits in seven-plus frames; however, Brian Tallet and Armando Benitez ? ah, that good old friend of ours who contributed many memorable moments in Oriole folklore ? allowed the game to get out of hand! Thanks again... More About: Canada
San Francisco Giants vs. Washington Nationals - June 6th, 2008
2008-06-07 20:29:00 San Francisco Giants vs. Washington Nationals More About: San Francisco , June , San Francisco Giants , Washington Nationals
Jim McKay Passes Away at 86
2008-06-07 20:18:00 Jim McKay, the longtime face of "ABC's Wide World of Sports" and most widely acclaimed for his tactful yet compassionate reporting of the Israeli hostage crisis at the 1972 Munich Olympics, died Saturday. He was 86, but lived a rich life and was very much of my childhood -- most notably, Saturday afternoons growing up.McKay was also part of the Baltimore Orioles ownership group which is headed Peter Angelos.Godspeed, Jim.
St Louis Cardinals vs Washington Nationals - June 5th, 2008
2008-06-06 23:19:00 St Louis Cardinals vs Washington Nationals More About: June , Washington Nationals
Boston Red Sox v. Baltimore Orioles; June 2nd, 2008
2008-06-06 23:10:00 Boston Red Sox v. Baltimore Orioles ; June 2nd, 2008 More About: Boston , Boston Red Sox , Baltimore Orioles
Olson Wins Number Five: O's Beat Twins, 3-2; The Jays On Tap...
2008-06-06 16:15:00 In light of what I said about two weeks about the first part of June being very important and telling as to where the Orioles would stand for the rest of the season -- right now, needless to say -- they're doing fine.With a record of 29-30, and still in last place in the AL East, the Orioles earned a very important series victory on Thursday as both Adam Jones homered, and Nick Markakis added a two-run shot as Baltimore beat Minnesota, 3-2.Keeping in line of the growth of this in 2008, rookie Garrett Olson won his fifth game as he allowed two runs and eight hits through 6 1/3 innings in Baltimore's third win in four games. Although he got into trouble in the first part of the game, through guts and guile, he was able to hold off the Twins .George Sherrill threw a scoreless ninth for his 20th save of the season.The Baltimore Orioles next counter against a tough Toronto team that's 32-30 on the season and are fighting for a top spot in the AL East.Matchups: Tonight: Orioles' Brian... More About: Beat , Wins , Jays
Press Release on First Round Draft Pick From The Orioles...
2008-06-05 23:15:00 The Orioles today selected LHP BRIAN MATUSZ with their first-round selection in the 2008 First Year Player Draft , taking the college junior with the 4th overall pick in the draft.Matusz, 21, is a 6-foot-4, 200-pound left handed pitcher from Cave Creek, AZ. A three-year starter at the University of San Diego, he has gone 12-2 this season with a 1.71 ERA (105.0IP, 20ER) and 141 strikeouts.In his three seasons with the Toreros, he is 26-8 with a 2.94 ERA (317.0IP, 101ER) in 48 games (45 starts) with 397 strikeouts. In 2007, Matusz was named a finalist for the Golden Spikes Award, given to the nation's best collegiate player. He was also named to the Wallace Award Watch list for the best collegiate player in the nation and the Roger Clemens Award Watch list, vying for the nation's best collegiate pitcher.Matusz is a graduate of St. Mary?s High School, where he earned two varsity letters and was named Arizona Player of the Year award along with a Baseball America All-America distinctio... More About: Press Release , Press , Release
About Last Night: O's Lose to Twins, Draft, Adam Loewen
2008-06-05 19:24:00 The seemingly upward climb of Daniel Cabrera hit a little bump in the road as Baltimore lost to Minnesota, 7-5, last night in Minneapolis. Despite leading for much of the first half of the game, the Daniel of old returned in the fifth and sixth inning as the Twins scored four runs combined and the Orioles were left to lick their wounds. Daniel Cabrera (5-2) took the loss for the O's, allowing six runs on eight hits over six frames. Baltimore's offense was able to knock out Kevin Slowey, the Minnesota starter, out of the game; however, they could not capitalize on a multitude of scoring opportunities. Joe Mauer homered and drove in three runs, helping Boof Bonser get a win out of the bullpen on Wednesday night.Kevin Millar and Melvin Mora each hit solo home runs for the Orioles, who have dropped five of their last seven contests. Brian Roberts went 2-for-5 with two RBI and a run scored, while Nick Markakis had two hits and one RBI.***The 2008 MLB draft is upon us, and while it is k... More About: Night , Draft , Adam , Adam Loewen
McLaren Blows Up: What Must Erik Bedard Be Thinking?
2008-06-05 17:25:00 Ah, Erik Bedard, perhaps he might now regret going to Seattle and not staying with Baltimore. As for us, man, does Andy MacPhail look more like a genius each and every day.I feel for Mariners fans, this deal has needless to say not worked out in their favor.Now Seattle skipper John McLaren has blown a gasket, and his tirade now will perhaps inspire -- however, not likely -- they're simply not a good team.Oh boy, what will happen next? More About: Thinking , Erik Bedard
The Rundown: '08 MLB Draft, Road Jersey Issue and More...
2008-06-04 20:12:00 Erstwhile Sun blogger Roch Kubatko previews the 2008 MLB Draft for the Baltimore Orioles in today's Sun. Up until a few years ago, I never paid that much attention to it; however, considering the rising salaries in the game, the success of the Diamondbacks, Brewers, Rays, Marlins and other teams, the draft has become vital. The Orioles have a lot of holes, and honestly I think the need a college guy ready ready to make an impact soon (I would like us to get Justin Smoak -- a potential plus bat), but Roch's pieces chronicles what the club is looking for in what could be a very important day when it comes to the franchise for the next few years.Speaking of the draft, Dan Connolly of the Sun has a great post on his blog about the Orioles' starting rotation in 2010; the Examiner has a piece about the '08 draft; the Orioles love the way Daniel Cabrera has been progressing; Luis Hernandez was DFA'ed and should held back to Norfolk, thus, the team is hoping he makes it back and regain... More About: Road , Rundown , Jersey , The Rundown
Liz and Trachsel
2008-06-04 18:13:00 Sometimes a second go of things in life is all that we need to figure out our dilemmas. Last year, Radhames Liz pitched both as in a starter and also in relief and looked not good in either. However, he looked raw and had a lot of promise, so after spending time down in the minors in '08, he was dispatched to Minnesota to see what he had.Liz was good -- not great -- as he won his first major league by going 5 1/3 innings and giving up two runs. The Orioles won last night, 5-3 against the Twins.The O's offense has his back as wunder-kid Adam Joneswent 2-for-3 with two runs and as well Kevin Millar and Melvin Mora each hit solo home runs for Baltimore. Furhtermore, Brian Roberts had a double, a triple and an RBI to emerge from a horrible slump. Meanwhile, George Sherill earned his 19th save.The news might good for Liz; however, it might spell the end of Steve Trachsel if he doesn't manage to pull a rabbit out of a black hat.For an insider's view about the Trachsel situation, read ...
Photo Gallery: Boston Red Sox vs. Baltimore Orioles; June 2nd, 2008
2008-06-03 23:25:00 For more images from last night, check out the Photo set on Flickr... More About: Boston , June , Orioles , Boston Red Sox
Garrett Olson at the ESPN Zone; May 29th, 2008
2008-06-03 00:39:00 Recently, young Oriole hurler Garrett Olson was at the ESPN Zone as he participated in a Q&A and Autograph session with fans.I was not there in attendance last Thursday; however, ESPN Zone manager Leigh Freidman sent us here at the blog a few images from the event.Hope you all enjoy, and if you're in Baltimore's Inner Aarbor, swing by the ESPN Zone!Garrett Olson at the ESPN Zone, May 29th, 2008 ; Baltimore, Md/Inner Harbor More About: Espn
It's About Damn Time! 'Baltimore' To Return To Road Jerseys
2008-06-02 01:18:00 If this is true, the clamoring of the fans voices from WNST, Mike, and everyone else has been heard! Well, Rick Maese reports on the Sun website this morning that "Baltimore " will be returning to the road jerseys in 2009.Ten straight years of losing, more than three decades of pining and now finally a big win. In fancy dancing script perhaps? Or maybe in bold block letters? Oh, we can fret the details later. What's important now is this: "Baltimore" is back.Meaningless on paper, puzzling to outsiders, and indescribably important to those whose passions rise and fall with the Orioles . Thirty-six years after the hometown was erased from the chests of Orioles players, it is expected to return next year.While we could sit here and moan about how long it took, about the years of needless hand-wringing and head-scratching, what's the point? The complaints aren't new, the arguments aren't fresh and the reason behind the sudden change isn't exactly clear. But who really cares?Why it to... More About: Time , Return , Road
Fan Support: Red Sox vs. Orioles & Random Thoughts
2008-06-02 00:54:00 In yet another sad loss, the Orioles were bested by the Evil Empire 1A, the Boston Red Sox, 9-4. Simply put, Brian Burres got shelled as he was attacked by the Red Sox offense early and often on Sunday.Although Luke Scott homered, Baltimore was undone by J.D. Drew, Manny Ramirez's 501st homer, and the return of rotund Bartolo Colon -- who seemingly was left for dead -- until the Red Sox picked him off the scrap heap. Needless to say, Bartolo looked like he was circa 2006, pretty much in control and pitching effectively.You can read the game recap here.This weekend it has been kind of demoralizing to be a Baltimore fan. If you were at Camden Yards and rooted for the black and the orange, you were outnumbered -- perhaps in the ratio of 80/20, or 85/15 in favor of the Boston fans.I know a lot of hate the Red Sox fans who either drive or fly from New England and also have joined the happy, Grateful Dead/Rolling Stones/Pearl Jam-like bandwagon; nevertheless, much of what we have seen th... More About: Random Thoughts , Random , Thoughts , Support
Photo Gallery: Boston Red Sox vs. Baltimore Orioles; May 31st, 2008 - Balto
2008-06-01 08:08:00 Boston Red Sox vs. Baltimore Orioles ; May 31st, 2008 - Balto., Md. More About: Photo , Boston , Boston Red Sox , Gallery
A Witness To History: Seeing Manny Ramirez's 500th Home Run...
2008-06-01 07:54:00 Manny Ramirez joined an elite club Saturday as he became the 24th player to hit 500 home runs with a shot against the Orioles. His home run came in the 7th inning off Baltimore reliever Chad Bradford. It was quite a moment to see with all the flash-bulbs and multitude of Red Sox fans who came to the Yard.Although we were on the wrong side of history -- again -- nevertheless, it was quite a moment to see.Manny Ramirez’s 500th Home r and Dugout Embrace More About: History , Witness , Home Run , Manny
Photo Gallery: Boston Red Sox vs. Baltimore Orioles; May 30th, 2008
2008-05-31 20:38:00 Boston Red Sox vs. Baltimore Orioles ; May 30th, 2008 - Baltimore, Md.The Baltimore Orioles gave last night?s game away and lost to the Boston Red Sox, 5-2. Despite the loss, the Birds hung in there with the Evil Empire 1A until the bitter end, as our pitching corps inly allowed two runs in the first and then three ? all unearned ? in the 13th thanks for errors by Melvin Mora and Freddie Bynum. They were frustrating to see; however, errors are a part a game ? but you cannot have that happen against a team the caliber of the Red Sox. Mike Lowell and heads up baseball by Boston late doomed the Orioles. More About: Photo , Boston , Boston Red Sox , Gallery
Man-Ram Goes For His 500th Home Run in Baltimore...
2008-05-30 21:31:00 Lord, (as my significant other would say) I don't want this to happen in Baltimore this weekend...I always want to be part of a milestone and history; however, never, ever on the wrong side of it.I've already seen it once in person with this team, and sure as hell don't care to see it again...Bet on Baseball at BetUS.com - America's favorite sports betting destination for all sports fans; adding more excitement and bonuses than any other sportsbook; on the web. Bet on your favorite horses like Big Brown at Belmont Stakes. More About: Home , Home Run
The Roundup; Andy MacPhail, Oriole News and Thoughts
2008-05-30 20:40:00 Recently on the Orioles.com website there was a Q&A posted in which Andy MacPhail answered a few questions from fans. I would not say that there was anything earth shattering that was divulged and it covering a myriad of topics from drafting players to Daniel Cabrera to both the performances of Matt Wieters and Jake Arrieta in the minors.The Sun's Jeff Zrebiec also looks into what Andy MacPhail can possibly do at the trade deadline. Despite the start by Baltimore, I see many changes coming on the horizon and the team on the field may not be necessarily the one that finishes up the season.It sounds like even he was surprised the team's solid start:"Look, I was pretty forthright in painting a pretty bleak picture, so I am surprised," MacPhail said. "I would have thought that after the things that I did, that we would struggle more than we have. I think this group is doing it out of tenacity. They're laying it all out on the field and that's all you can ask for. And the things ... More About: News , Roundup , Thoughts
The Evil Empire 1A, The Red Sox, Roll Into Town Once Again...
2008-05-30 15:50:00 After taking two of three from the New York Yankees, the Baltimore Orioles have yet another tough customer rolling into the Yard -- the Evil Empire 1A, the Boston Red Sox.This will be the second visit for Boston in Baltimore, and so far, the Orioles are 2-0 against them. Right now, they are trying to snap a two game losing streak and are 5-5 in their last ten; moreover, they are only 11-19 on the road, so things may not seem so gloomy.Meanwhile, the Orioles are at .500 -- a feat that perhaps few expected for them even approach by June. Thanks to amazing pitching, timely hitting, and the knack for making a comeback, they are still five games out of the AL division lead.Despite Tuesday's amazing game, the Oriole offense is still struggling and that needs to improve against a patient Boston team that can mash.Matchups:Tonight: Josh Beckett (5-4, 4.43) vs. Daniel Cabrera (5-1, 3.70)Saturday: Jon Lester (3-3, 3.55) vs. Garrett Olson (4-1, 4.09)Sunday: Bartolo Colon (2-0, 2.25) vs. Brian... More About: Roll , Town , Evil empire
Grit, Determination and a Tale of Two Games?
2008-05-28 19:57:00 Last night, the Baltimore Orioles may have pulled off their most memorable win in some time. There may not be anyone batting above .260 in the lineup; however, last night at the Yard ? at least for the first five innings ? became home run derby, or a modified version of batting practice and the latter half of the game became a battle of the bullpens. The Orioles came back from deficits of four runs ? twice ? to defeat the Yankees in the 11th inning 10-9. I have no idea if the Baltimore comeback was a function the team digging deep and putting it together, or if it is because of a horrific New York relief corps, but to see them do that was beyond impressive. Cintron?s single in the 11th helped gave Baltimore the victory over LaTroy Hawkins, whom New Yorkers are probably not happy with today. If you want a recap of the game, read here; alas, what I will remember from last night is the post-game press conference from Dave Trembley and his emotions nearly pouring out in front of the me... More About: Games , Tale
New York Yankees vs. Baltimore Orioles: Baltimore, Md - May 27th, 2008
2008-05-28 06:21:00 New York Yankees vs. Baltimore Orioles ; Balto. Md - May 28th, 2008 More About: New York , New York Yankees , Baltimore Orioles
Photo Gallery: New York Yankees vs. Baltimore Orioles: Baltimore, Md - May
2008-05-27 04:31:00 After a 5-game skid, the Orioles thanks to the brilliant pitching of Garrett Olson, Aubrey Huff?s three-run homer in seventh, along with Nick Markakis going 3-for-4 and breaking out a slump with a solo homer in the sixth, Baltimore beat the New York Yankees, 6-1. The woeful New York bullpen opened the game for Baltimore and wasted a great effort by youngster Darrell Rasner.The story of the game besides Olson?s performance was Nick Markakis finally coming out of a deep slump. Baltimore?s number three hitter came through big on Memorial and he knows better than anyone that he needs to hit in order for the Orioles to win. As well, he was marvelous in the field as he gunned down Johnny Damon at home in the third inning thanks to a laser throw. I think that play embolden the Orioles, gave Olson even more confidence and showed the Yankees, despite everything, they?ll be hard to beat unlike in past seasons.Despite having A-Rod in the lineup, the Bronx Bombers were limp and the Orioles took... More About: Photo , Gallery , New York Yankees
Reality; Do We Jump Off The Cliff Now?
2008-05-26 16:19:00 After an amazing start to the first two months of the season, the Orioles have lost five straight and are now 24-25. Two weeks ago, a lot of people were smitten by Baltimore as they beat the Red Sox and took two of three from the Nationals; however, reality might have suddenly as the New York Yankee took two of three from the Orioles & the surging Rays swept the Birds.What can we say, are the Orioles who we thought they were? Aside from the excellent starting and relief corps (aside from Steve Trachsel), the offense was going to be a big problem.Now the problem is downright awful. Despite a tight game yesterday that Tampa won with Evan Longoria's walkoff double, there is not an Oriole regular north of .260.And you wonder why Baltimore has lost five straight. Nick Markakis is in a deep slump, and seems to be chasing everything, Roberts is trying to get into a groove, and everyone else seemingly cannot buy a hit. Most fans knew the offense would be an issue, but could it be this ... More About: Reality , Jump , Cliff
Milwaukee Brewers vs. Washington Nationals; May 25, 2008
2008-05-26 04:24:00 Milwaukee Brewers vs. Washington Nationals ; May 25, 2008 Bet on Baseball at BetUS.com - America's favorite sports betting destination for all sports fans; adding more excitement and bonuses than any other sportsbook; on the web. Bet on your favorite horses like Big Brown at Belmont Stakes. More About: Milwaukee Brewers , Washington Nationals , Milwaukee
Do We Bag Trachsel?
More articles from this author:2008-05-25 16:54:00 I like Steve Trachsel, but today?s start was absymal. Should he get another chance, or should he be sent on his way? Was he rusty? Not feeling it? Just bad?His line: 1 2/3 IP, 9R, 9ER, 2BB, 1K, 7H, Season Stats: 2-5, 8.82 ERA, 33.1 IP, 45H, 35R, 33ER, 9HR, 22BB, 16KFour straight losses, no offense to speak of ? what needs to be done? Folks, it?s open thread time let?s hear it?Bet on Baseball at BetUS.com - America's favorite sports betting destination for all sports fans; adding more excitement and bonuses than any other sportsbook; on the web. Bet on your favorite horses like Big Brown at Belmont Stakes. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 |
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