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Green spaces & happy faces: Here’s what was truly missing from Preakness 2009

Nestor Aparicio

As you probably already know, the infield was virtually empty today at Pimlico for Preakness 134. It made me sick to see the event virtually disappear, but it also galvanized me enough to believe that perhaps now that the drunk idiots are gone, perhaps the event can be revived over the next generation as a proud, local, celebration of spring and horse racing and our community — an event people with families want to attend again for the rest of their lives. If you went to the race today you know what I’m talking about. It was actually a GREAT event. The weather was decent for most of the day before the rains came around 6 p.m. The beer was cold and priced fairly. The food was diverse and easy to order. There was PLENTY of “open space” as well to lay in the sun, have a picnic, relax, bet the races. And I’ll bet it’s almost universal: the people who went today had a blast! Like all of the smiling people I saw singing along to ZZ Top classics, I had a great day today at Old Hilltop. I saw friends on the infield. I saw friends in the

I’m betting on Papa Clem again…

Nestor Aparicio

For all of the reasons that I mentioned two weeks ago when the horses turned for home at Churchill Downs, I’m betting on Papa Clem again today. And, just because Clem Florio loved women as much as I do, I’m doing an exacta box with Rachel Alexandra as well. I might even throw Pioneer Of The Nile into a triple box and see if I can make some real money today at Pimlico. Weather looks more than dreary so far, but I’m headed over to the infield shortly to see what’s different about the first Preakness where underage kids aren’t holding 10 cases of beer on a beat-up 8-foot table waiting to go inside to run across urinals and have people throw objects at them. It might actually be fun this year. At least, I’m thinking this will be a great day! Stacey Keibler, Charm City Devils, Buckcherry (who I dig, but I’ve never seen) and ZZ Top should make the day a great one. Happy Preakness to all of you who still care about stuff like civic pride and sentimentality. Go Papa Clem!

Ray Lewis holding off Father Time

Luke Jones

In case you haven’t heard, the incomparable Ray Lewis turned 34 today.  It’s hard to believe the 21-year-old kid that taught Baltimore how to “raise the roof” at Memorial Stadium in 1996 and continues to create absolute mayhem during player introductions at M&T Bank Stadium is now entering his 14th season with the Ravens.  Lewis came to Baltimore an undersized middle linebacker from the University of Miami, and despite a tumultuous offseason in which his departure via free agency was a distinct possibility, he will now finish his career as the greatest player in franchise history and a first-ballot Hall of Famer in Baltimore.   His legacy—and statue across from the Johnny Unitas one outside M&T Bank Stadium—is a foregone conclusion.  As someone who grew up without football until age 13, I had learned to cherish the legend of Unitas, Gino Marchetti, Lenny Moore, and Bert Jones, but it wasn’t the same because I had not experienced it.  I wanted—and needed—my own football legend (and team) to follow, and Lewis immediately became the Unitas of my generation, even if his persona was the polar opposite.  The middle linebacker’s flashy—and at times cryptic—personality may not place him on the same pedestal as the revered Unitas, Brooks Robinson, or Cal

Coors Light King of Baltimore Sportstalk semifinals airs at 4 p.m. today

Nestor Aparicio

We’re down to the final seven contestants in the Coors Light King of Baltimore Sportstalk competition after Wednesday night’s live semifinals at Donna’s Tavern in Dundalk. Today on Limited Access, we’ll play the five-minute auditions from the 11 semifinalists on AM 1570 beginning just after 4 p.m. and we’ll have all of the videos up in the wnsTV vault by day’s end as well. We have a great show today with our WNST.net horse racing analyst Gary Quill sitting in from 2 til 4 and we’ll have visits from Daily Racing Form’s Marty McGee as well as our very own Stacey Keibler, who is the head honcho celebrity at this year’s Preakness. Now, if we could get the fog to clear…

Baby steps for the O’s

Luke Jones

Injuries are never easy on a team, regardless of the fallen player’s talent level or role with the club. Adam Jones’ hamstring injury comes at a time when he is third in the American League in hitting (.370) and leads the Orioles in hitting, home runs (8) and on-base percentage (.426).  While Jones’ absence—regardless of the length—certainly hurts the team, the Orioles are in a position in which they have not found themselves very often in the past 20 years. However, an injury leads to an opportunity, and the Orioles can actually look to the minor leagues for a legitimate option to replace him in the lineup. Enter Nolan Reimold.  He’s another possible piece of the future to watch despite the forgettable start to the current season. Although the discussion dated back to spring training regarding Reimold’s status with the club, the 25-year-old rookie finally gets the opportunity to show his skills at the major league level. Though Reimold will not take Jones’ position in center field, he indirectly takes over for him as Felix Pie slides over to field his natural position.  Reimold was blistering Triple-A pitching to the tune of a .394 average, nine home runs, and 27

Orioles finally give the call to Nolan Reimold

Nestor Aparicio

Outfield prospect Nolan Reimold will finally be joining the Orioles in Kansas City today as the team will recall him and send pitcher Bob McCrory back to Norfolk after a rough outing last night against the Rays in a 8-6 loss. Reimold’s numbers at AAA have been staggering. He’s hitting .394 with 9 home runs, 11 doubles and 27 RBI in just 109 at bats and 31 games. The Orioles brass has been adament that Reimold would only be recalled when he could play every day in the big leagues. With the injuries and various ailments to Luke Scott, Felix Fie and now Adam Jones this week, this call-up isn’t as much a “reward” as it is a necessity for the organization who have played the last two games short on the bench. Here is Reimold’s year in stats…

Triple losses: First the Caps, then the Orioles, then Danny Gokey

Nestor Aparicio

Despite the fun we had in Dundalk last night with an evening of 12 semifinal auditions at Donna’s Tavern, it was an ugly night for local sports. The Capitals fell behind early and had one of the most disappointing Game 7 efforts in recent memory. The Orioles got clubbed by the Rays while Adam Jones left the game early with a hamstring pull. And, adding insult to the injury that effectively ended my hockey season, my favorite American Idol contestant Danny Gokey got bounced by the American public in a shocking turn of events. (Somehow, I think Kris Allen got through just because he looks like Brian Roberts!) The Capitals played the entire postseason from behind and last night it finally caught up with them. Simeon Varlamov’s magic ended quite early last night and Bruce Boudreau and the troops must be devastated – if not embarrassed – by that performance in a Game 7 last night. It’s always hard getting eliminated, but not showing up prepared to compete in a game like last night is unacceptable. The home-ice advantage was nullified pretty early last night in D.C. and it will be a tough offseason after losing a game in that

Share the Game 7 madness with us tonight in Dundalk!

Nestor Aparicio

Tonight in Washington D.C., a place where five years ago hockey was a rumor or perhaps a myth, the Capitals will host the Penguins in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs’ second round. I don’t need to tell you that it will be one of the best sporting events of this (or any) year. I can all but guarantee it. Honestly, tell me another sport — other than an NFL playoff game, but even those are influenced by injuries, weather, weird bounces, blowouts, etc. — where you know you’ll be getting what you’re paying for tonight. It’s 3-3. The teams clearly don’t like each other. The penalties have been lopsided in the Penguins direction. The “one name” stars are all out — my man Jim Williams of The Examiner wrote about the incredible worldwide audience for this game — Ovechkin and Federov, Sidney and Malkin. Who’ll win? The pesky Capitals who have been outplayed dramatically but have been incredibly resiliant and realiably cardiac over the past three weeks certainly have a shot. They are the NHL team with nine lives at this point. A home crowd of 20,000 red maniacs, taunting Sidney Crosby and Segei Gonchar not to mention

Hendrickson stinks but bullpen holds up, Birds beat Rays 7-5

Nestor Aparicio

Betting the “over” in last night’s game certainly looked like a sure thing over the first three innings but once starters Andy Sonnanstine and Mark Hendrickson left the game the real pitching took over and the Orioles held on to beat Tampa Bay 7-5 last night at Camden Yards. All of the scoring took place before the 4th inning and both bullpens were taxed in the interim, with Brian Bass emerging as the biggest star on the hill, working four scoreless innings after Adam Jones hit homers in the first and second innings of the game. So much for starting pitching: Sonnanstine gave up nine hits and seven earned runs in two innings and Hendrickson’s evening was just as ugly as he allowed six hits and five earned runs in two innings. Felix Pie left the game with an undisclosed stomach ailment and was actually transported to the hospital. Without Luke Scott tonight, they O’s may play with just two bench players. Could a call-up be looming? The Orioles go for yet another “mini” sweep tonight as they send Brad Bergesen (1-0, 4.98) to the hill against Tampa’s Jeff Niemann (2-3, 5.65).

Orioles upend Rays, 7-5

Luke Jones

Despite a wild start to this one, the Orioles got an outstanding effort from the bullpen and center fielder Adam Jones, as they held on to defeat the Rays, 7-5. Starter Mark Hendrickson lasted only two innings after surrendering five runs, but Brian Bass entered in the third and pitched four scoreless innings to bridge the gap to the later innings.  Danys Baez, Jim Johnson, and George Sherrill each pitched a scoreless inning to close out the victory. Adam Jones sparked the offense with two home runs and drove in four runs.  The 23-year-old center fielder continues to be among the league leaders in batting average (.363) and leads the club with eight home runs. Left fielder Felix Pie left the game in the fourth inning and was taken to the hospital with a stomach ailment.  If Pie is unable to recover for tomorrow’s game, the club will only have a two-man bench with Luke Scott unavailable until the start of the Kansas City series.  In case you were wondering, Nolan Reimold hit another home run for Triple-A Norfolk tonight. All in all, not a bad ballgame despite the sloppy start for both teams. The Orioles will go for the

What else can happen in this game?

Luke Jones

As I sat down to watch tonight’s Rays-Orioles game, I expected another dull contest with Mark Hendrickson on the hill for what might be his last start before a returning Rich Hill bumps him to the bullpen. Boy, was I wrong. Not about Hendrickson—he was gone after giving up five runs in two innings of work—but this game has seen a little bit of everything. We’ve seen 12 runs scored in four innings of baseball. Adam Jones is looking more and more like a superstar in the making. Juan Samuel can’t stop windmilling with his shoulder. Neither team appears interested in hitting a cutoff man. And the Orioles started the top of the fourth inning without a left fielder.  Apparently, Felix Pie had a bit of a stomach problem and left the game. (Insert your favorite joke here about feeling the same way when you watch him play.) This is definitely one of those head-scratching games the casual fan enjoys, but the baseball purist despises. “Arena” baseball (as Jim Palmer likes to call it) at its finest.

Sports Illustrated calls Angelos “worst owner in MLB”

Nestor Aparicio

Well, at least SOMEONE agrees with me. I’ve written tomes, if not The Illyiad, on the ownership debacle that has purged most of the fans of the Orioles from Oriole Park at Camden Yards over the last 15 years. Now, SI.com and Sports Illustrated have concurred. P.S. The article also calls Steve Bisciotti the No. 5 “best owner” in the NFL. Here is the piece from SI.com…posted earlier today.

Preakness on my mind…

Nestor Aparicio

I’m up early this morning and reading online about the Preakness and where it stands in the realm of the sports world circa 2009. I’ve been googling videos, watching drunken fights, potty races, some bare breasts and (oh yeah) horse racing and a history and legacy that defines sports in Baltimore and Maryland over the last century. This week I could most certainly write my annual “Can The Preakness Be Saved?” blog/column and now that I’m back on the radio maybe it’s time to have a spirited debate about the Preakness and its merits on AM 1570. Does it matter? Do you like the changes to infield? Are you going this week? When’s the last time you went? (Or, when is the last time you went to any track, period?) Why don’t you go? Do you know how to read the Racing Form? If you do go, why do you go? I’m actually going to the race on Saturday and have been asked to participate on one of the stages and interview some of the stars of the event. I’m excited and honored. I love the Preakness but I also readily and sadly admit its incredible decline from once reverent

Game 7 is a go: Caps beat Penguins 5-4 in OT

Nestor Aparicio

The Washington Capitals season will march on after a 5-4 overtime win in Pittsburgh that was one of the more exciting events of the year. David Steckel’s tip-in off a shot from Brooks Laich went past Penguins goalie Marc-Andre Fleury at 6:22 of overtime and the Caps have forged a Game 7 on Wednesday at Verizon Center. We watched the action at Silver Spring Mining Company with another packed house of Rock The Red nuts. It’s as much fun as I’ve had in years, especially sharing hockey with a community of like-minded fans. It’s like a little mini-Ravens fan celebration. The game was sensational throughout with the Caps holding leads throughout the third period only to allow the Penguins to force overtime on a goal from Sidney Crosby with 4:14 remaining in regulation. It could’ve been devastating and the Caps even put the Penguins on a power play on a slashing call on Brooks Laich with 2:02 remaining in the third period. The Caps tightened up. They got the game into overtime and found a way to win. Even Alexander Semin came back to life tonight, scoring a goal in the second period. I’ve said it many, many time. Game

Mike Green’s missing stick

Nestor Aparicio

I took a call this afternoon about the disappearance of Mike Green’s offense in the Pittsburgh series. The caller referred to Drew’ diatribe this morning about a “stick” issue. Apparently, his sticks were discontinued. It’s an interesting story because sticks are VERY personal for NHL players. I covered the league intimately for 10 years. Every player brandishes his own blow torch, tape, angle and ruler. It’s a big deal to have to change sticks, like a baseball player changing bats. I did a little research and found the story here for you. Rock the red tonight!

Ryan Freel latest ex-Oriole to be “overwhelmed with joy” to be gone

Nestor Aparicio

As predicted, it didn’t take Ryan Freel long to squawk to the Chicago media about how miserable his experience was as an employee of Angelos’ Army in Baltimore. He was traded by Andy McPhail for speedy outfielder Joey Gathright on Friday afternoon. His more vitriolic quotes apparently came “off the record” but he did say that he’s “overwhelmed with joy” to no longer be an Oriole and he told the Cubs equipment manager to “burn” his Orioles equipment bag. Oh, and he said: “I don’t want any Birds around my locker.” Read the whole piece here…

5 Ws and 1 H

Luke Jones

I wanted to take a moment to wish all the moms out there a very Happy Mother’s Day.  In the sports world, we tend to overlook Mom in favor of Dad taking the kids to ballgames or coaching the little league team. In my own childhood, my dad often had the glory, taking me to Orioles and Ravens games and coaching many of my teams, but my mom was right there at every game as my No. 1 fan.  I sincerely thank her for that. Now, on to the 5 Ws and 1 H for the week. 1.  Who really deserves to be the Orioles’ closer at this point?  The closer-by-committee idea sounds logical, but relievers have to be effective in order for it to work.  The struggles of George Sherrill against right-handed hitting are well-documented (right-handers are hitting .378 against him), but no one else is emerging as a viable option. Chris Ray (7.20 ERA) still doesn’t look right after returning from Tommy John surgery, Jamie Walker is really a one or two-batter pitcher at this point in his career, and Jim Johnson gave up the demoralizing three-run homer to Johnny Damon this afternoon. Danys Baez has been the

Bullpen melts down to Yanks after strong outing from Koji, Orioles lose 5-3

Nestor Aparicio

4:43 p.m. — Well, I was feeling good when Felix Pie got on base for the third time today but it wasn’t meant to be. The Orioles got a nice effort from Koji Uehara today but the Jamie Walker-Jim Johnson combo couldn’t hold the lead after the 7th and a pair of homers from Robinson Cano and Johnny Damon beat the Orioles 5-3 at Camden Yards. The Orioles are now 13-19 and are 7-17 since beginning the season 6-2. They get a rare off day tomorrow and will resume action Tuesday night at Camden Yards with Andy Sonnenstine (1-3, 5.79) and Mark Hendrickson (1-4, 5.13) going to the hill. Below is my running live blog. 4:32 p.m. — I agree with most of the comparisons of George Sherrill to Don Stanhouse, who gave us thrills in the summer of 1979. The only difference? This 2009 team stinks some 30 years later. Either way, he put a couple on and managed to silence Johnny Damon with the game in the balance. They’re already down two with Rivera en route. They need a happy ending. But they have the dreaded 7-8-9 hitters coming to the plate. Not a good scenario. I need

Orioles can make all Moms happy today with Yanks series win

Nestor Aparicio

The Orioles have the chance to make all orange Moms smile today with a potential series win over the Yankees at Camden Yards after an impressive 12-5 win last night. Once again, the middle of the lineup is sizzling and even on nights when they give up a less-than modest five runs, they can beat around mediocre pitching with the likes of Phil Hughes, Edwar Ramirez, Jonathan Albaladejo and Brett Tomko. (Makes you ask, “Where have you gone Jeff Nelson and Mike Stanton?”) Adam Jones and Nick Markakis are both batting .353 now, and have been rock stars since Opening Day. They are both now making a strong bid to be in St. Louis for the All Star Game. Aubrey Huff hit a homer last night and I’m not convinced last year was an aberration. Go back and read my blogs. He was one of my favorite “non Orioles” to watch when he was in Tampa Bay. He always put up big numbers and I think with ducks on the pond so often this year, he’ll be productive. Even if he still thinks Baltimore sucks as a place to party after dark. Hey, even my boy Gregg Zaun is batting

Purple Friday – Join me on WNST this afternoon

Luke Jones

Join me on AM 1570 WNST or WNST.net this afternoon at 4:20 as we have an excuse to talk Ravens football despite the season still being months away.  What’s the biggest question on your mind as we approach the preseason? It’s a far cry from a Purple Friday in the fall, but we’ll get a small tease of football this weekend as the Ravens begin their mandatory minicamp today at 1 Winning Drive. The weekend is nothing more than an obligation for most veterans—with the exception of Terrell Suggs who is not expected to attend after again being named the team’s franchise player—but it’s the first chance for the rookies to rub elbows with the likes of Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Derrick Mason.  It’s always interesting to hear the veterans’ first impressions of the new draft picks and rookie free agents. As we take the next step toward training camp in Westminster—now less than three months away—, several questions loom large as the Ravens try to improve upon coach John Harbaugh’s surprising first season. Here are five questions on my mind as we approach the season, in no particular order. 1.  How is the depth at quarterback shaping up?

Orioles make it two in a row with mini-sweep of Twins

Nestor Aparicio

It wasn’t a textbook victory last night for the Orioles (12-17) but they’ll take wins anywhere they can find them. After an evening of soggy weather and a six-inning win on Wednesday night, the Birds came back to Camden Yards and finished the mini-sweep with a 5-4 win over the Twins led by Melvin Mora and unlikely Lou Montanez. Mora homered in the second and got on base in the eighth before Montanez singled to left to account for the game-winning RBI. The usual speedy work of Brad Bergesen on the hill picked up the pace of the game, but he was in trouble most of the evening and worked some Houdini magic to avoid big innings. All told, the Twins managed 14 hits off of O’s pitching — including 11 off Bergesen in just six innings — but could never plate runs in bunches. Reliever Chris Ray struggled in the 7th inning, allowing the Twins to tie the game after inheriting a one-run lead, but Jim Johnson was stellar in the 8th inning to vulture a victory and George Sherrill managed to finish a sweaty 9th to earn fifth save of the year. Afterward, manager Dave Trembley gave praise

Are you really surprised anymore?

Luke Jones

When I received the news of Manny Ramirez’s 50-game suspension, I didn’t flinch or really react at all.  No anger.  No disappointment.  Indifference.  We’ve heard this story over and over, especially in Baltimore after the Rafael Palmeiro scandal in 2005.  Of course, Ramirez received a medication from a doctor who didn’t know any better—a doctor clearly unaware of Ramirez’s status or Major League Baseball’s chronic problem with performance-enhancing drugs.  It’s understandable that one of the two highest-paid players in all of baseball could only afford to go to a doctor that didn’t know any better.  And if you believe that, you’re clearly still waiting for Palmeiro’s promise to tell his side of the story—four years later.  How ironic is it that Alex Rodriguez appears set to return to the Yankees this weekend at Oriole Park at Camden Yards this weekend?  Baseball can never get out of its own way, can it? Instead of dwelling on the indelible cloud of doubt and questioning whether anything in baseball is real, I’m reminded of a piece I wrote shortly after the revelation that Rodriguez used steroids—effectively ending any hope of Barry Bonds’ “home run record” being purified.  I’d like to share it with the

Orioles and MLB continue to insult fans with “rainball” at Camden Yards

Nestor Aparicio

While you and most everyone you know was asleep last night, the Orioles, MLB and umpire Randy Marsh were seeing to it that a regulation major league game was played last night at Camden Yards. In an embarrassing display of disregard for the fans and the players in a game that “officially” went until 12:19 a.m. this morning, Marsh spent six hours of the evening through four rain delays to get the Twins and Orioles onto the field for six innings of water-logged baseball and the Orioles stole a 4-1 win. Today, on “Limited Access” at 2 p.m., we’ll be discussing how it’s evenings like Wednesday night and the utter disregard for the paying customers and their own athletes that continue to find Oriole Park empty most nights.  Can you imagine having a full-priced ticket for last night’s game and having to endure an evening at the ballpark where it rains all night and they insist on playing the game against any common sense? As expected, Twins manager Ron Gardenhire was red-faced with anger and livid that the game ever began — and anyone who looked at the forecast and/or the radar could’ve seen that the chances of playing a

Markakis the best homegrown talent since Eddie Murray?

Luke Jones

In an otherwise miserable 10-17 start to the 2009 season, Nick Markakis has been one of the few bright spots for the Orioles thus far. Now playing in his fourth season, the 25-year-old right fielder has performed in relative anonymity outside of Baltimore due to the team’s woes over the last decade.  However, his blistering start has finally forced the rest of the baseball world to take notice. Entering Wednesday, Markakis ranks in the top-10 of the American League in batting average (8th), runs (1st), on-base percentage (5th), runs batted in (4th), and walks (9th).  Though only one sixth of the way through the season, Markakis is on pace for a .356 average, 24 home runs, and 162 RBI. After years of clamoring for a homegrown middle-of-the-lineup hitter and watching failed prospects from Jeffrey Hammonds to Ryan Minor, fans have almost begun to take Markakis for granted due to his quiet nature and consistency.  He is clearly the club’s best player and arguably the best right fielder in the game. But the question remains:  how does Markakis stack up against the great Orioles of the past?  It’s difficult to compare players across different eras accurately, so I’ll compare Markakis to

Why the Orioles bullpen held a closed-door meeting

Luke Jones

From the home office in Glen Rock, Pa., I bring to you the Top 10 Reasons Why the Orioles Bullpen Held a Closed-Door Meeting on Monday Afternoon. 10.  They’re still trying to figure out just how high Radhames Liz’s ERA was in his last stint with the club. 9.  “I know we’ve asked you before, but is it pronounced ‘Danny’ or ‘Dan-eez?’” 8.  They figured since they can’t manage to close the door late in the game, they might as well try to do it in the clubhouse. 7.  With minicamp starting Friday, the relievers discussed who among them could be that big-play receiver the Ravens lack. 6.  To cool complaints about not having established roles, the front office sent over a pack of these for the bullpen to share. 5.  “George, when you’re the closer, we called it colorful.  When you’re not, the brim’s just kind of lame.” 4.  Jamie Walker shared his new seminar titled “How to Critique Umpiring Tactfully.” 3.  After watching another episode of The Office, Chris Ray shouted, “Conference room, 5 minutes!” 2.  Figuring out how to get the bullpen phone to go straight to voice mail is not a one-man job. 1.  In an

Caps win tonight establishes them as a serious Cup threat

Nestor Aparicio

Part of the pain of being a lifelong fan of the Washington Capitals has been the “tease” factor and the dalliances with greatness. It’s a franchise that has had a long history of tragic, Game 7 losses in April and early May. Tonight, with a rabid crowd and the greatest player on the planet registering a hat trick and a kid in goal who is playing electrifyingly exciting between the pipes, this team seems on the verge of doing some special things this May. Despite a few retaliation penalties in the early going before righting their ship, the Caps played the part of a gritty, determined team — the kind that holds serve in their own rink and now must go to Pittsburgh with a chance to exterminate the Penguins in the Igloo on Wednesday and Friday. No doubt the folks at the Verizon Center tonight will be telling people for years about the night that Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby both scored three goals and the Caps won 4-3 in the most exciting local sporting event of 2009. The building sounded like the roof was about to explode. I went to the game on Saturday, which was a great

It’s time to shake things up in Birdland

Luke Jones

The first month of the season should come as no real surprise, but it doesn’t make it any easier for Orioles fans. With low expectations entering the season due to a thin starting rotation, the Orioles are fulfilling those prophecies in addition to disappointing in other areas.  The bullpen has been shaky, the defense inconsistent, and the bottom of the lineup completely anemic. Having lost 14 of their last 17 games, the Orioles are crashing to the bottom of the division.  Frustrations are mounting as Dave Trembley has been ejected twice in the last week and players are slamming bats and helmets in anger. Changes must be made. The starting pitching will continue to struggle with limited options in the minor leagues ready for an immediate promotion to Baltimore.  Lefty Rich Hill continues to rehab his sore elbow and appears to be ready to join the starting rotation by mid-May.  Chris Tillman and David Hernandez have pitched well at Norfolk but are averaging less than five innings per start.  Once these two can go deeper into games, they would be the next logical choices for a call-up. The club has cooled offensively with the bottom of the lineup contributing next

Mining everything but “The Bird”…

Nestor Aparicio

No doubt, by now you know that Mine The Bird, a 51-to-1 shot, won the Kentucky Derby in the mud with the most emotional athlete I’ve ever seen in Calvin Borel aboard. You surely know that the Caps now have a 1-0 series lead over the Penguins after yesterday’s 3-2 win in D.C. You’re keenly aware of the Orioles continued ineptitude in Toronto (which I’ve thankfully avoided with various other sports obligations) and the fact that Johns Hopkins squeaked by Loyola in lacrosse yesterday. You might’ve even stayed up with the Celtics and Bulls last night in a game that even “non-believing” NBA fans couldn’t help but catch a glimpse. We even took a busload of NASCAR fans down to Richmond last night with Rex Snider to catch the race where Kyle Busch held off Jeff Gordon. And, if you’re on the WNST Text Service, you got the note that former Dolphins (and Cam Cameron) quarterback John Beck is expected to sign with the Ravens tomorrow to compete for the No. 2 job. (So much for the Troy Smith experiment.) I went to the Caps game yesterday and had an awesome time. No press pass. Just went and sat in

O.J. Brigance continues to inspire us all

Luke Jones

2008 was a memorable year for the Ravens on so many levels.  From the unexpected run to the AFC Championship game to the encouraging play of rookie quarterback Joe Flacco, the season brought much joy and excitement to the fans of Baltimore. But beyond any accomplishment on the field, the most impressive achievement was the courage and inspiration of Director of Player Development O.J. Brigance.  The former Baltimore Stallion and Raven continues to influence young players and show us all what it means to be a man. This past week, ESPN’s Outside the Lines featured Brigance’s remarkable story.  It’s difficult to see how ALS has stricken the Super Bowl and Grey Cup champion’s body, but it has not affected his mind or, more importantly, his soul.  His story is one of perseverance, faith, and purpose. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeDauc4fb70[/youtube]

Last slice of Pie?

Luke Jones

According to Roch Kubatko, Felix Pie is out of the lineup again today, as the Orioles will face Toronto’s rookie right-hander Robert Ray.  Could this mean the Pie experiment is coming to an end? Norfolk’s Nolan Reimold hit another home run last night, and Orioles scouts are reportedly watching the 25-year-old outfielder closely.  Reimold is hitting .413 with eight home runs and 24 RBI in the International League. It makes little sense to be sitting Pie again if the organization is not viewing a Reimold promotion as imminent.  Facing the Toronto rookie would logically be a good matchup for the struggling left fielder.  Pie’s 51 at bats are a small sample size, but it’s impossible to ignore the ridiculous numbers Reimold is posting at Triple A.  Reimold hit 25 home runs at Bowie last season. If and when Reimold is promoted, what do you do with Pie?  The organization would have to pass him through waivers to send him to Norfolk, an unlikely proposition.  The decision to bring up Reimold should be more about his dynamic performance at Norfolk—not because of Pie’s struggles. Pie has certainly looked lost, both at the plate and in left field, but it’s unfair to

MASN’s “marketing” efforts are unintentionally comical

Luke Jones

Perhaps the only entertaining part of watching the Orioles lately is the opportunity to see MASN’s embarrassing marketing efforts. Aside from the prudent decision to broadcast a whopping four spring training games on a cable network owned by Peter Angelos, the Orioles continue to produce compelling commercials for upcoming games.  The problem is the network’s definition of “upcoming” makes little sense.  In Friday night’s telecast, I viewed two commercials promoting games against the New York Yankees on May 19 and the Washington Nationals on May 22. Did I miss something, or is today only May 1? The Orioles have series against the Rays, Twins, Yankees, the Rays again, and the Royals before these advertised games take place.  Do the Orioles and MASN want you to forego watching these games, instead marking your calendar to watch games in late May?  I just don’t understand the strategy.  Commercials should be pushing next week’s series in Tampa Bay and then against the Yankees, not looking so far ahead. If you’re going to televise all of the games, don’t you want people watching as many as possible?  Telling viewers about games coming up in three weeks almost sounds like the network doesn’t expect or

Angelos and Orioles put the screws to Dodgertown and Vero Beach

Nestor Aparicio

Not that anything should come as a surprise when Peter Angelos and his band of “friendly” attorneys are involved, but once again — more than a thousand miles away — an honorable and hospitable town has tired of dealing with their negotiating tactics and insolence. Here’s a scathing editorial from A Florida newspaper in Palm Beach… These are not my words — and I never make this stuff up anyway. You don’t have to make this stuff up because the stories always seem to have striking similarities when the Orioles attempt to do “business” with good, honest people. This spring training fiasco — documented by the Orioles players in The Sun three weeks ago — continues into its 16th year now, or as long as Angelos has owned the team. Writer Ray McNulty calls them liars, cheaters and snakes. Oh, and he says the way the “Angelos boys” do business is “slimy.” But other than that, he’s ready to have baklava and ouzo and break plates. Apparently, the folks in Dodgertown had no idea who they were doing business with over the past few years in trying to lure the Orioles to Vero Beach. The more things change… Let’s see

5 Ws and 1 H

Luke Jones

Here are the 5 Ws and 1 H floating around in my head on Thursday night: 1. Who will be the Ravens kicker this season? Steve Hauschka performed well kicking off last season but only attempted two field goals, making a 54-yarder and missing the other from 52. Rookie free agent Graham Gano has a huge leg and had a brilliant season at Florida State, hitting 24 of 26 field goals. It was clear Matt Stover lost a great deal of range last season, but you always knew what you were going to get from him.  Anything inside 45 yards was automatic.  For a team with visions of a Super Bowl, a kicker can make or break the season.  Just ask the 2000 Tennessee Titans. The battle between Hauschka and Gano will be unlike anything we’ve seen in the 14-year history of the team, as the Ravens will search for their second starting kicker in franchise history. 2. What was the original purpose of the dirt path between the pitching mound and home plate in early-1900s ballparks?  For nostalgia, you’ll find the dirt strip at Comerica Park and Chase Field. I was watching the Yankees-Tigers game last night when the

Losing mentality still evident with the Orioles

Luke Jones

As if losing 11 of their last 14 games isn’t bad enough for the Orioles, players are now complaining about the infield at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. In an article published by The Baltimore Sun on Tuesday, Peter Schmuck revealed several infielders—including Aubrey Huff and Cesar Izturis—are suggesting the length of the grass is a major factor in the club’s erratic defense this season. Just add it to the long list of excuses accumulated over the last 12 years of losing. The premise behind a thicker infield was to help a pitching staff expected to struggle mightily, not an uncommon idea in the history of the game.  The problem is the grass hasn’t managed to stop Orioles pitchers from allowing a league-high 40 home runs. Go figure on that one. Then, of course, let’s move the fences back.  That will solve everything! Not surprisingly, the club tried it in 2001 and went 30-50 at home, as the Orioles hit only 58 home runs at Camden Yards that season.  After numerous complaints that it had altered the angle of the batter’s eye wall, the original dimensions were restored in 2002 and have been left alone since. Losing organizations will find

Unleash the fury…Harry Kalas and other “non-radio” tidbits

Nestor Aparicio

First, I hope Ray Bachman has fun doing the show from 2 til 6 today. (He won’t admit it, but he really loves talking sports and doing the show. And he loves when I’m not there.) I’m having a “business/strategy” day of respite and I’ve been catching up on sports since 11 p.m. last night when Bruce Springsteen walked off the stage at the Spectrum. (Set list here…) I watched the Washington Caps win Game 7 on the DVR but only after someone in my life who will remain “unnamed” wrecked my evening by texting me the result while Springsteen was in the middle of singing “She’s The One.” (MAKE A NOTE OF THIS: DO NOT EVER TEXT YOUR FRIENDS A SCORE!!!! A simple, “Hey dude…do you want to know who’s winning?” would suffice. And, honestly, with the score of any game in the universe a click away on my phone why would I want you to wreck my midnight viewing by texting me the result. It’s just unacceptable!) But, I digress… Alas, I did watch the game in its entirety this morning (and it’s NOTHING like not knowing the result) and the Capitals are as lucky to be headed

O’s are slip, sliding away…

Nestor Aparicio

It seems that no one noticed over the weekend while the NFL Draft was going on, but the Orioles are still playing baseball. And they’re actually fun to watch most nights. It’s been a strange start to the season in a lot of ways. Just the crowds — one night there’s a “friends and family” gathering of 5,000 or so like last night, and then on Friday and Saturday night the place was almost full — are kinda strange. But so is the weather these last few days. Global warming at work, no doubt. It’s 2:52 a.m. and I’m watching the end of the replay of the Orioles game in HD. I fell asleep on the game at 8:35 and again at 9:10 earlier this evening in low definition. I woke up, and it was the 3rd inning all over again, this time in HD. They lost again. They blew a 4-0 lead again. With the “Number 1” starter on the hill in Jeremy Guthrie an early four-run lead wasn’t nearly enough. This time it was Matt Albers’ turn to take a spanking, getting shelled for 3 earned runs in just 2/3 of an inning. Tonight the Angels come to

How the draft shapes the current roster

Luke Jones

We’re exactly three months away from rookies and quarterbacks reporting to McDaniel College in Westminster for the start of training camp.  With the 2009 NFL Draft complete and the names of undrafted free agent signings beginning to leak, we will start to get a better idea of how the training camp roster will look. Much can change between now and July 27, but here is a look at the Ravens’ selections and how they affect the competition at their respective positions.  Listed in parentheses is the projected number of players kept at the position.  Since undrafted free-agent signings are not officially announced until minicamp, I have excluded them from the current breakdown. Round 1 (23rd overall):  Michael Oher (Mississippi), OT OFFENSIVE TACKLE (4) Locks:  Jared Gaither, Michael Oher Bubble:  Willie Anderson, Adam Terry, Oniel Cousins Longshot:  Joe Reitz, Tre Stallings Analysis:  The selection of Michael Oher immediately transforms offensive tackle from a position of weakness to one of depth.  Gaither is firmly entrenched on the left side, so the real battle will take place on the right side between Anderson and Oher. While Ozzie Newsome and Eric DeCosta currently envision Anderson as a mentor for the rookie, he could be

No receivers, but Ravens still upgrade passing game

Luke Jones

The 2009 NFL Draft has come and gone with Ozzie Newsome adding six new players to a team that reached the AFC Championship game last season, despite a passing offense that ranked 28th in the league. Not one was a wide receiver. Despite fans and national pundits clamoring for the Ravens’ need to improve the receiving corps of Derrick Mason, Mark Clayton, and Demetrius Williams, Newsome did not find a receiver to his liking.  However, the Ravens did succeed in upgrading their passing game—not to mention the entire offense—by drafting offensive tackle Michael Oher from Ole Miss with the 23rd overall pick. Not expected to be on the board at No. 23, the Ravens not only drafted a great story but a huge, young upgrade at right tackle.  While not a flashy pick (I’ll refrain from using the term “sexy” since it’s become the overused adjective of the weekend), Oher will provide a bigger boost to the passing game than any rookie wideout would have. A rookie receiver rarely makes a dramatic impact in his first season—just ask Pro Bowlers Roddy White (29 catches in 2005) or Wes Welker (0 in 2004). Though Hakeem Nicks or Kenny Britt could blossom

Info on final Ravens pick RB Cedric Peerman here…

Nestor Aparicio

With the 185th pick of the 2009 NFL Draft, the Ravens selected running back Cedric Peerman from the University of Virginia. Some videos here: [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqOORe6v1gM[/youtube] And a bio piece here: [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uExLaKck2OI[/youtube] Here is a bio: HONORS 2005–Second-team Freshman All-America kick returner by CollegeFootballNews.com … second-team All-State by the Roanoke Times. AT VIRGINIA 2007–Was having a dynamic season until injuring his foot early in the Middle Tennessee game in week six and underwent surgery … was the team’s leading rusher with a career-high 585 yards … was the ACC’s leading rusher at the time of his injury and his 97.5-yards per game average would have ranked second in the league, but he did not play in enough games to qualify … three 100-yard rushing games tied for fourth in the ACC … was the team’s leading rusher in the first five games of the season until his injury … rushed for 137 yards vs. Duke on just 19 carries in the second game … scored on a 58-yard run in the first quarter for UVa’s longest running play in two years … exploded for a career-high 186 yards against North Carolina on 30 carries … his 186 yards were the third-most

Meet tight end Davon Drew from East Carolina

Nestor Aparicio

With the 149th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Ravens selected tight end Davon Drew from East Carolina. Here’s his bio: Overview Drew took advantage of ECU’s climb to national prominence early in the season to improve his draft stock. The honorable mention All-Conference USA pick is an ideal H-back candidate because of his size and receiving skills (43 catches for 695 yards and three scores). Came to college a successful high school quarterback out of North Carolina and played quarterback his first two seasons at ECU, so he’s still learning his new position. Scouts think his best football is yet to come. Had an arm span of 34 1/8 inches and a hand span of 9 1/2 inches at the combine. High School Helped lead Bears to back-to-back state championship appearances in 2002 and 2003 … Compiled a 30-3 record as a starting quarterback under the direction of coach Chip Williams … The Big East Conference Co-Player-of-the-Year as a junior … A two-time all-conference selection and an all-state pick during senior campaign … Completed 99 of 203 passes for 1,709 yards and 20 TDs while only suffering nine interceptions as a senior … Rushed for 492 yards and

Ray Lewis holding off Father Time

Luke Jones

In case you haven’t heard, the incomparable Ray Lewis turned 34 today.  It’s hard to believe the 21-year-old kid that taught

Baby steps for the O’s

Luke Jones

Injuries are never easy on a team, regardless of the fallen player’s talent level or role with the club. Adam

Orioles upend Rays, 7-5

Luke Jones

Despite a wild start to this one, the Orioles got an outstanding effort from the bullpen and center fielder Adam

Preakness on my mind…

Nestor Aparicio

I’m up early this morning and reading online about the Preakness and where it stands in the realm of the

Mike Green’s missing stick

Nestor Aparicio

I took a call this afternoon about the disappearance of Mike Green’s offense in the Pittsburgh series. The caller referred

5 Ws and 1 H

Luke Jones

I wanted to take a moment to wish all the moms out there a very Happy Mother’s Day.  In the

Last slice of Pie?

Luke Jones

According to Roch Kubatko, Felix Pie is out of the lineup again today, as the Orioles will face Toronto’s rookie

5 Ws and 1 H

Luke Jones

Here are the 5 Ws and 1 H floating around in my head on Thursday night: 1. Who will be

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