ORIOLES TO PLAY EXHIBITION GAME AGAINST

STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA ON APRIL 3

            The Orioles today announced that they have reached an agreement with State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) Manatees Baseball, to play an exhibition game at Ed Smith Stadium on Tuesday, April 3 at 1:05 p.m. There will be no admission charge to attend the game, with the exception of reserved tickets near the SCF dugout which will be sold by the college with proceeds supporting Manatees athletics.  Tickets can be reserved through the SCF athletic department at 941-752-5261.

Formerly known as Manatee Community College, the institution has enjoyed a rich athletic tradition throughout their 54 year history. The baseball program has produced over 185 professional baseball players and over 350 players have gone on to four year universities. Legendary coach Tim Hill Sr., only the second baseball coach in school history, is in his 32^nd and last year as head coach of the team.

“The State College of Florida is extremely grateful to the Orioles for enabling us to continue our tradition of facing a major league team,” said State College of Florida Athletic Director Matthew Ennis. “The game means so much to our school and the surrounding community and our players are thrilled for the opportunity to play at Ed Smith Stadium.”

Current Orioles pitcher JIM JOHNSON is a student at State College of Florida, taking online classes to complete his Liberal Arts degree.

For the last 12 years the school played an annual exhibition game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the only junior college in the nation to play a major league team in spring training. The game against the Orioles will allow the State College of Florida to continue this tradition.

–orioles—

BALTIMORE – The Orioles took an 8-1 lead into the 9th inning Sunday at Camden Yards, but that didn’t stop me from asking WNST’s Twitter followers if seven runs was enough for Kevin Gregg as he made his way through the centerfield bullpen gate.

Turns out, Kevin Gregg couldn’t record one out in the 9th, facing six batters while allowing four hits and two walks.

With the score at 8-4 with the bases loaded and no outs, Jim Johnson came into the game and retired the side on 10 pitches. The O’s would go on to win 8-5, with Jim Johnson earning his second save of the season.

The O’s lead was a running joke in the pressbox today, with reporters wondering how many runs the Birds would have to score in order to enter the 9th with a comfortable cushion. The ninth inning felt a bit like the twilight zone until Jim Johnson was summoned to restore the order.

Following the game, Kevin Gregg refused to speak to reporters, commenting that he is always available to speak and wondering why the Baltimore media wanted to talk to him today. Gregg pointed out that the team won, that there are many positives to take away from the game, and that we should instead focus on those story-lines. Gregg seemed rather irritated and was clearly in a foul mood.

Personally, I feel the O’s should have a public relations seminar with their players, as this is not the first time this has happened this season. Towards the end of July, Jeremy Guthrie was very short with reporters who were questioning him about that potentially being his last start as an Oriole at Camden Yards.

Reporters have a job to do just as the players do. Gregg’s near meltdown is frankly one of the bigger story-lines to take out of the game today. He has constantly struggled out of the bullpen this season and has not been the pitcher the O’s were hoping he would be. Gregg also has struggled in non-save situations this season, and we (the media) wanted to talk to him about that fact.

Just as Gregg didn’t do his job today, we weren’t allowed to do our job either. It’s one thing for the Orioles to be losers on the field, but it’s another for them to be classless off the field. This type of behavior shouldn’t be tolerated in the locker-room.

If Gregg would have saved a playoff game, I bet he would have happily talked with reporters.

He should have spoken to us today as well.

In actual on-field news, Jo-Jo Reyes pitched very well, going 6 innings while allowing 4 hits, 1ER, and 2BB while striking out four Tigers.

Buck Showalter talked about Reyes’ next start, so it is assumed that he will be making his next scheduled start next week.

Nick Markakis drove in four runs today, with two of his RBI’s coming in the first inning on his 12th home run of the season. With the hit, Markakis extended his consecutive series with a hit streak to 178 straight series.’

That’s the recap for today. For me, while attempting not to beat a dead horse, I’m disappointed in Kevin Gregg. I really am. I lost some respect for him today.

Players don’t run from success, so they shouldn’t run from failure.

At least the Ravens are back…

The Baltimore Orioles are now two games into the second half of the 2011 season. On Wednesday’s edition of “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST, Drew Forrester and I gave our grades for Orioles players during the first half of the season.

CATCHERS:

Matt Wieters-Glenn Clark B+, Drew Forrester B
Jake Fox-Glenn D, Drew D
Craig Tatum-Glenn C-, Drew B

INFIELDERS:

Derrek Lee-Glenn D+, Drew D
Brian Roberts-Glenn D, Drew D
JJ Hardy-Glenn A-, Drew A
Mark Reynolds-Glenn B-, Drew C-
Robert Andino-Glenn C+, Drew C
Blake Davis-Glenn C, Drew B-
Cesar Izturis-Glenn D, Drew D
Ryan Adams-Glenn C, Drew D
Brandon Snyder-Glenn C-, Drew C-

OUTFIELDERS/DESIGNATED HITTERS:

Luke Scott-Glenn D, Drew D
Adam Jones-Glenn B-, Drew B+
Nick Markakis-Glenn B-, Drew C-
Nolan Reimold-Glenn C+, Drew C-
Felix Pie-Glenn F, Drew D-
Vladimir Guerrero-Glenn D+, Drew D+

STARTING PITCHERS:

Jeremy Guthrie-Glenn C+, Drew C+
Jake Arrieta-Glenn B-, Drew C
Zach Britton-Glenn B, Drew B
Brian Matusz-Glenn D, Drew F
Chris Tillman-Glenn D, Drew D
Brad Bergesen-Glenn D+, Drew C-
Chris Jakubauskas-Glenn C-, Drew D

RELIEF PITCHERS:

Koji Uehara-Glenn B, Drew B+
Jim Johnson-Glenn B+, Drew B-
Pedro Viola-Glenn C, Drew C
Kevin Gregg-Glenn C-, Drew C+
Alfredo Simon-Glenn C-, Drew C-
Jeremy Accardo-Glenn D, Drew D
Mike Gonzalez-Glenn D, Drew D
Josh Rupe-Glenn D, Drew D
Jason Berken-Glenn C, Drew C-
Clay Rapada-Glenn D-, Drew B-
Troy Patton-Glenn D, Drew F

MANAGER:

Buck Showalter-Glenn C-, Drew B+

If you missed the breakdown of our midseason grades on Wednesday’s edition of “The Morning Reaction”, hit the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault at WNST.net!

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

In their first game against the Red Sox in the 2011 season, the Orioles collected their first win over Boston, a 4-1 victory in which rookie left-hander Zach Britton was impressive yet again.

It was the Orioles’ first series-opening win since beginning the season with three consecutive victories in series openers on their way to a 6-1 start.

Britton became the first rookie starter in franchise history to win four games in the month of April, becoming just the fifth American League rookie since 1980 to win four by the end of the season’s opening month.

Kevin Gregg recorded his first save that didn’t require an Orioles outfielder crashing into the fence to record the final out with runners on base. The closer retired the Red Sox in order to earn his third save of the season and keep fans’ blood pressure at a tranquil level.

And the Baltimore offense, a group that’s struggled mightily through the season’s first three weeks, became the first lineup to score more than two runs against a Red Sox starting pitcher in Boston’s last 10 games, a period in which starters had posted a 0.88 earned run average in 61 1/3 innings over nine games. It was the Red Sox’ best nine-game stretch of starting pitching since July 1918 when Babe Ruth anchored their starting rotation.

Though hardly an offensive explosion, the Orioles collected 12 hits and three sacrifice flies to send Clay Buchholz to his third loss of the season. Prior to Tuesday night, the 26-year-old had allowed only one run in 28 innings of work in his last four starts against the Orioles.

In an all-around fun night at Camden Yards for the 18,938 fans not rooting for the Red Sox, Britton was once again the star, failing to blink in his first career start against one of the two big boys in the American League East. The left-hander allowed one earned run over six innings, surrendering five hits while walking two and striking out two.

Britton began the month of April expecting to pitch for Triple-A Norfolk, the result of a business decision by the organization to delay starting his service time. He finishes the month 4-1 with a 2.84 earned run average, having pitched six innings or more in each of his five starts.

Time will tell whether Britton’s hot start is the first chapter of a brilliant career, only a flash in the pan, or somewhere in the middle, but it’s hard not to be impressed with the results, the talent, and what the 23-year-old possesses between the ears — and elsewhere, according to his teammates.

“He’s got a pair,” said outfielder Adam Jones about the rookie’s intestinal fortitude. “Every time he walks out on that mound, he goes out there and gives it his all, and that’s really all you can ask.”

It wasn’t a perfect outing as Britton’s pitch count caught up with him — as is often the case against the patient Boston lineup — but the sinkerball pitcher induced 10 ground ball outs compared to six in the air. His only blemish came in the fourth inning when he allowed Dustin Pedroia to steal third base before cleanup hitter Kevin Youkilis hit a sacrifice fly to drive in the only Boston run.

After years of watching young Baltimore pitchers wilt in their first meeting with the Red Sox or Yankees, Britton displayed the same composure he’s held since making his major league debut in Tampa Bay on April 3.

“I really don’t get that nervous out there,” Britton said. “I don’t know what it is. It’s not that I have a huge ego or anything. I just don’t get nervous out there. I have a lot of confidence that I can get out of jams and if I’m out there getting all worried, I think the situations blow up. I try to take my time and take a couple breaths and get after it.”

It was a much-needed performance for a club struggling to score runs. Despite collecting 12 hits on the night, the Orioles also left 11 men on base as Buchholz battled through 6 2/3 innings before giving way to the Red Sox bullpen. Jones hit two sacrifice flies while Derrek Lee and Vladimir Guerrero combined for five hits in nine at-bats in what’s hopefully a sign of better things to come for the Orioles’ two biggest offseason acquisitions.

The bats will need to stay warm as the Orioles face Josh Beckett and Jon Lester in the final two games of the three-game set. Aiming to win their first series since April 4-7, the Orioles’ ability to get the first one out of the way makes it a far more reasonable task.

“We’re a hit away from opening it up a little bit, but Buchholz is pretty good,” said manager Buck Showalter of the team’s offensive output. “So is Beckett and so is Lester and so is [John] Lackey and [Daisuke] Matsuzaka. It’s the big leagues, so you’ve got to give them credit, too. But we scored a run to get up early.”

Jumping on teams early is exactly what the Orioles haven’t been able to do as they entered Tuesday’s game having lost 11 of 13 games.

But after a quality night of baseball, the Orioles hope Tuesday’s victory over the Red Sox is the first step in recapturing the early-season mojo wiped away by two difficult weeks of baseball.

Visit the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault to hear from Zach Britton, Adam Jones, Buck Showalter, Derrek Lee, and Matt Wieters following the Orioles’ 4-1 win over the Boston Red Sox.

Happy Friday!

It’s a Happy Friday for me because tonight is my annual Fantasy Football Draft; or as I like to call it-”August Christmas.” Thanks to my buddy Chris Appel for arranging the event at Mountain Branch for our “Full House League”, where I’m assuming these things will be on the menu…

I have the 6th pick in this year’s draft. I’m mortified. Clearly Chris Johnson and Maurice Jones-Drew will be gone; with Ray Rice and Adrian Peterson likely behind them. That will likely put me in an uncomfortable spot where the best options are Frank Gore, Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers and Michael Turner.

I have no idea what I’d do in that situation.

I guess Team “Jesse and the Rippers” probably end up having to take this guy…

And as a quick personal note; my condolences go out to Chris Appel (and former WNST.net blogger BJ Appel-the Commish in our league); whose grandfather “Big” Will Appel passed away last night. Big Will was an amazing dude who will be missed. Thoughts and prayers all around, it certainly weighs heavy on an otherwise glorious day.

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. WNST.net’s Glenn Clark says Terrence Cody (knee), Demetrius Williams (ankle) missed practice again Thursday ahead of Ravens-Giants game

Neither are major concerns, and neither have ruled themselves out for tomorrow night-although it would surprise me if either were on the field after missing practice for all (Williams) or the majority (Cody) of the week.

The Ravens will almost certainly be without O-Linemen Jared Gaither (back), Oniel Cousins (concussion), David Hale (tailbone) and Daniel Sanders (shoulder) tomorrow night; as well as CB Marcus Paschal (leg).

WR Eron Riley (back) and DT Brandon McKinney (knee) are question marks having missed a few practices this week; and I would be surprised if CB Lardarius Webb played on the turf at “The Bank” after returning from the PUP list just this Monday.

It sorta feels weird to talk about injuries before a game and not mention LJ Smith. I hope he’s doing well…

2. BaltimoreRavens.com’s Ryan Mink says ‘ball security’ very important for Cam Cameron, Ravens against New York

And after 8 fumbles in the first two preseason games against the Carolina Panthers and Washington Redskins, it seems like a pretty logical thing to work on.

You know what else seems pretty logical? Posting this picture of Ninel Conde from Don Chavez….

3. National Football Post’s Aaron Wilson says Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome to be inducted in Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor

I’m not sure if the Browns are planning on inviting guys to town to be honored the weekend of the induction, and it likely wouldn’t matter; as the Ravens visit the Cincinnati Bengals that day and I’m sure Ozzie will be in The Queen City, not The Comeback City.

But hypothetically, imagine the Browns holding an event on a day where Newsome had been able to attend. I am certain there would be at least a level of awkwardness at Cleveland Browns Stadium. I don’t think the majority of fans would be foolish enough to-say-boo the man whose Cleveland career made him a Hall of Fame TE. But I do think there would be a handful of fans (especially younger fans who might not remember Newsome on the field) who would be uncomfortable with honoring the GM of the team that abandoned Cleveland and now regular comes back to kick the Browns in the ass.

And there’s also the whole “he works for Art Modell” thing.

They’re doing the right thing. And it is probably best that it will happen on a day where they can avoid any level of awkwardness.

4. New York Daily News’ Ebenezer Samuel says G-Men center Shaun O’Hara to miss tomorrow night’s game

Before we move on from the Ravens, a couple of things…

-The Ravens are holding a walkthrough today that is CLOSED to the media out at 1 Winning Drive in Owings Mills. They’ll kickoff against the Giants at 7:30 tomorrow night at M&T Bank Stadium. The game can be seen live on WBAL11.

-Did you miss Ravens LB Jason Phillips with Drew Forrester today on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST? Jason discussed his road to making the 53 man roster after missing last season. You can hear it in the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault right here at WNST.net. Some other things you can hear in the Audio Vault include…

• Howard Cross (New York Giants sideline reporter/former TE)-who previewed tomorrow night’s preseason showdown with the Ravens
• Domonique Foxworth (Ravens CB)-who joined Drew to talk about his recovery and preview the Maryland-Navy get together at M&T Bank Stadium on Labor Day
• TJ Rives (Tampa Bay Buccaneers sideline reporter)-who previewed the Bucs with Drew as we continued to look at all of the Ravens’ 2010 opponents
• Roger Lodge (Host of “The Sports Lodge” on AM830 in Los Angeles and the former host of “Blind Date”)-who joined Drew to preview the Angels
• All sorts of audio from Owings Mills Thursday-including Cam Cameron, Greg Mattison, Jerry Rosburg and Ray Rice
• Steve Hauschka (former Ravens, now Detroit Lions kicker)-who joined Thyrl Nelson Thursday on “The Mobtown Sports Beat”
• Joe Maese (former Ravens Long Snapper)-who joined Rex Snider Thursday on “The Afternoon Drive” to talk about Matt Katula/Morgan Cox as well as his new career as a Howard County firefighter
• Len Pasquarelli (CBSSports.com)-who checked in live from the NFL Owners Meetings in Atlanta with Rex Thursday

Plus much much more. It’s all in the Audio Vault, so once again I’ve planned your day completely. I’m getting sick of carrying you like this.

5. The AP’s Jay Cohen says Edwin Jackson masterful as Orioles lost to Chicago White Sox at US Cellular Field

Not a whole heck of a lot more that can be said about this.

Jackson was TREMENDOUS last night. The type of tremendous that sorta makes you wonder how he can ever be bad.

I almost said “I’m glad Edwin Jackson doesn’t pitch for my team, because it would be frustrating to watch him.” But I don’t mean that. I’d take Edwin Jackson my team 10 times out of 10. He’s better than anyone we have.

Nights like these happen sometimes. They’re frustrating, but they happen. Hopefully there will be fewer and fewer of them in 2011.

Hopefully.

6. The AP/WNST.net provide numerical evidence of loss

Jackson’s line: 8 shutout innings, 3 hits, 10 strikeouts

Jake Arrieta’s line: 4 IP, 4 ER, 7 hits, 3BB, 2K

You REALLY don’t want to look at these numbers.

Instead, look at Olivia Wilde. She’s much more pleasant to look at. Thanks Guyism!

7. MLB.com’s Brittany Ghiroli says Armando Gabino optioned to Norfolk after loss, Jim Johnson expected before tonight’s game in Anaheim

And when it comes to Gabino, we’ll always have the memories. Like…

I’m happy for Jim Johnson to finally be getting back. I think there was a real chance of him having his spirits dampened after such a dreadful season thus far.

You know what tends to help me when my spirits are dampened? Robert Randolph…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kABK_CDZal8[/youtube]

8. The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Chris Tillman roughed up, but Norfolk Tides managed to beat Charlotte Knights on farm

And before we move on from the O’s, a couple of things…

-The Birds left the Windy City last night for Anaheim, where they’ll open a weekend series with the Angels tonight. First pitch between Brad Bergesen and Trevor Bell is at 10:05pm, and the game can be seen on MASN2. Kevin Millwood and Jeremy Guthrie face Scott Kazmir and Jered Weaver the rest of the weekend.

-Adam Jones missed another game last night, but was available in an emergency situation. Still not considered a longterm issue.

-While Tillman still seems to be a guy who will be headed to Charm City next week, it does not look like Buck Showalter and Andy MacPhail will be giving Zach Britton the call. Might be the right move, but still kinda disappointing.

9. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says LaQuan Williams, Justin Lewis, Matt Furstenburg now listed as starters for Terrapins

And yet somehow Shannon James STILL isn’t starting. WHERE IS THE JUSTICE IN COLLEGE PARK?!?!?!? (Thanks The Smoking Jacket!)

10. ESPN.com’s Wayne Drehs says Michael Phelps has rededicated himself to Swimming after visiting this year’s Vancouver Olympics

Thank God, as I can’t take seeing Michael Phelps lose anymore.

I mean, if Phelps is losing-I’m pretty sure THIS man defaults back to being the face of Baltimore sports…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJxkbTYekdY[/youtube]

And finally, I leave you with this.

The Maryland State Fair is underway in Timonium. It means plenty of wonderful things all around. Amongst them? DEEP FRIED POP TARTS! (Thanks Fox 45!)

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

Happy Thursday!

It’s a Happy Thursday for me because they have Moosehead on tap at the new Tilted Kilt in White Marsh, which is about 2 minutes from my house…

They are going to get so sick of seeing me there.

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. WNST.net’s Glenn Clark says Ravens LB Brendon Ayanbadejo expected to start season on PUP list

Which wouldn’t surprise you at all if you had checked out my “Mocking The 53″ post Tuesday here at WNST.net. I took Brendon Ayanbadejo and Matt Lawrence out of the equation to make the roster, as I expected both to end up either on PUP or off the roster.

I don’t have anything definitive yet on Lawrence, but it remains a safe assumption.

The hope now is that Ayanbadejo can return to play sometime after the first 6 weeks. I’m still not totally convinced of that either, and wouldn’t be stunned if at some point the team was forced to come to an injury settlement with the LB/Special Teams whiz.

Special Teams will be where someone earns a roster spot with Ayanbadejo missing. Jason Phillips’ chances grow significantly; but David Reed, Edgar Jones, Davon Drew, Prescott Burgess, Prince Miller, KJ Gerard and Demetrius Williams could also stand to benefit by separating their special teams abilities.

Defensively, the Ravens will be without a player who had really settled in as a nickel LB and was very good at playing the pass. If you watched Donovan McNabb and Santana Moss Saturday night when the Ravens faced the Washington Redskins; you’d understand why that’s significant.

2. National Football Post’s Aaron Wilson says rookie DT Terrence Cody dealing with swelling in knee

And as I mentioned during one of our Ravens reports yesterday, there is no question that a man of Mount Cody’s size would be putting a significant amount of pressure on his knees.

The good news is that it isn’t necessarily structural damage (John Harbaugh pointed out there was a small cartilage issue) and Cody already told us he didn’t expect to miss a game because of the injury.

The bad news is that it is totally possible that the swelling and amount of pain COULD continue for Terrence as the season goes on.

It’s a little concerning, but certainly not frightening. You know what’s frightening? The look on Ray Lewis’ face in this ESPN The Magazine “Faces of the Game” photo…

3. Sporting News’ Dennis Dillon says back end of Ravens’ defense ‘shaky’

Anyone interested in arguing this point? Didn’t think so.

You know what DOESN’T look shaky? Karissa Gilham. (Thanks Maxim via The Smoking Jacket!)

4. The Sun’s Edward Lee says Demetrius Williams, Terrence Cody missed practice again Wednesday

And before we move on from the (on field) Ravens, a couple of things:

-The Ravens return to the practice field at 1 Winning Drive in Owings Mills today, with coordinators Cam Cameron, Greg Mattison and Jerry Rosburg scheduled to meet with the media. We will have coverage throughout the day on Twitter (@WNST), right here at WNST.net and with Ravens Reports at 12:30 (with Thyrl Nelson) and 4:30 (with Rex Snider) on AM1570 WNST.

-Did you miss Tavares Gooden’s OUTSTANDING chat with Drew Forrester this morning on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST? Make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault today to check it out. Other things you can find in the Audio Vault include…

• Jason La Canfora (NFL Network)-who went around the league with Drew this morning
• Andy Behrens (Yahoo! Sports)-who got Drew and I ready for our own Fantasy Football Drafts this morning
• Our Morning Reaction “Cheap Shots From The Bleachers”-as I took a shot at the new Bud Selig statue in Milwaukee and Drew took a shot at the Dave Trembley interview in The Sun this morning
• Plenty of Audio from Owings Mills Wednesday-including John Harbaugh, Marc Bulger, Terrence Cody, Brendon Ayanbadejo, Cory Redding, Jarret Johnson and Tony Moll.
• Frankie Piliere (Fanhouse/Former Texas Rangers scout)-who went around MLB with Thyrl Wednesday
• Howard Balzer (Sports Xchange)-who checked in with Rex Snider Wednesday from the NFL Owners Meetings in Atlanta

It’s all in the Audio Vault, so once again I’ve planned your day for you. You can send Thank You cards right here at 1550 Hart Rd.

5. BaltimoreRavens.com’s Mike Duffy says team introduces “The Baltimore Fight Song” to the tune of old Baltimore Colts song

Here’s the song-as posted by WBAL on YouTube…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55X44bYiXjI[/youtube]

And here are the lyrics to the song…

Baltimore Ravens Let’s go

And put that ball across the line

So fly on with talons spread wide

Go in and strike with Ravens pride

Ravens dark wings take to flight

Dive in and show them your might

For Baltimore and Maryland

You will fly on to victory

It doesn’t come off as the type of song that will inspire a new generation of football fans, but it will CERTAINLY appeal to those who care about the legacy of football in Charm City.

There are some folks that would just as well have “I’ve Got a Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas played after the team scored. If it were “I’ve Got a Feeling” by The Beatles, I might not be opposed…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UzZDOBWGro[/youtube]

6. The AP says Matusz tossed gem, Brian Roberts homered as Orioles topped Chicago White Sox at US Cellular Field

I’d love to sit here and tell you that I was gripped to MASN2 to watch every pitch from the South Side last night, but I wasn’t.

Of course, during the pitches I was poking my head at on the screen in the corner of my eye-I was impressed. Maybe I should have been gripped to the TV.

Former WNST producer Chris Bonetti once printed out a Tweet from Ken Rosenthal (of FOX Sports fame) that still hangs on our bulletin board. It reads…

“A scout who caught his first look at Orioles LHP Brian Matusz: ‘I would trade virtually any guy on our staff for him. Boy, is he good.”

The guy who pitched last night…he was that guy.

7. The AP/WNST.net provide numerical evidence of win

Incredibly, you actually DO want to look at these numbers. Matusz went 7 innings, giving up just 1 run on 3 hits. He walked 1 and struck out 5.

Besides B-Rob’s homer, Matt Wieters went 2-3 with a double, 2 RBI and a run scored; and Felix Pie went 2-3 with a run scored.

Good things all around.

Of course, I can’t allow my system to be ruined-so go check out the numbers and then come right back to check out Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete, who apparently won the Miss Universe pageant. I say “apparently” because there’s no chance in all hell I actually watched the thing. (Thanks Guyism!)

8. The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Mark Buehrle accused Felix Pie of stealing signs during Birds’ win over Pale Hose

And if he is….I DON’T CARE!!!

I just want Felix Pie to keep playing well. If stealing signs is somehow part of that, STEAL AWAY!!!

Obviously I’m just saying that-but in reality I’d take just about anything for Felix Pie to consistently play well. Whether it’s Buck Showalter, sign stealing, steroids or a deal with Rumpelstiltskin like in Shrek Forever After; just do it.

And maybe do it at the beginning of the season when the games still count…if it isn’t asking for too much.

9. Baysox.com says despite Joel Guzman’s 29th home run, Bowie fell to Akron Aeros on farm

And before we move on from the Orioles, a few things…

-Adam Jones was held out of last night’s game after being hit by a Gavin Floyd pitch Tuesday night. He’s not expected to miss an extended period of time.

-After a rehab stint in Bowie, pitcher Jim Johnson is expected to rejoin the O’s this weekend when they face the Angels in Los Angeles or Anaheim or Rancho Cucamonga or wherever the hell they play.

-He told me he was going to wait until after the season to talk, but Dave Trembley talked to The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec this morning. Nothing earth shattering, but might be worth the read. I’m sure he’ll talk to us soon…

-The O’s and White Sox play the rubber game of their weekday series tonight in The Windy City; Jake Arrieta faces Edwin Jackson. First pitch is at 8:10pm and the game can be seen on MASN2.

10. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says Maryland having TE troubles, as Devonte Campbell now hurt as well

With Will Yeatman and Lansford Watson already hurt this preseason, this is troubling news for Ralph Friedgen’s team.

Of course, it ISN’T necessarily troubling news for Perry Hall High School alums like Glenn Clark, as this could very well pave the way for former Gators TE David Stinebaugh to see the field on Labor Day against Navy at M&T Bank Stadium.

Matt Furstenburg remains ahead of him, and Patrick would point out that walk-on Ryan Schlothauer is probably ahead of him as well-but I don’t care. If Stinebaugh somehow manages to catch a TD in Baltimore, I’m going to get kicked out of the press box for yelling GAAAATOOORRRSSSS!!!!! at the top of my lungs.

11. UMTerps.com says Terrapins RB Da’Rel Scott named to Doak Walker Award Watch List

And if I were Da’Rel Scott, the first thing I would do is call Krystal Forscutt and find out if this was the type of thing that impressed her. (Thanks NextRound.net!)

And finally, I leave you with this.

Deadspin (via Gawker) posted this yesterday, and it was pretty funny. It’s a horse race at Monmouth Park featuring horses named “My Wife Knows Everything” and “My Wife Doesn’t Know.” It’s a pretty good call…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQRlZw4Rad0[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

Happy Wednesday!

It’s a Happy Wednesday for me because I’ve been waiting days to name our “Greatest Song(s) of All Time This Week.” They couldn’t be more different. The NEW version of the “Greatest Song of All Time This Week” is a song that has been popularly passed around on Facebook (add me as a friend by searching “Glenn Clark” and click on the guy drinking Orange Kool-Aid because he lost a Buck Showalter-related bet to Ed in Park Heights), and is so good I might have to stop this segment altogether.

Note: Cee-Lo uses a LOT of naughty language in this song. It is VERY NSFW! Unless of course you work somewhere like the Gold Club. In which case, you should really stop by the studio when you get the chance…

[dailymotion]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xeidub_cee-lo-green-fuck-you_music[/dailymotion]

Now for something COMPLETELY different. The CLASSIC “Greatest Song of All Time This Week” is a song I once sang on my knees to a young lady in Mexico, I once sang to a dude for free drinks at The Big Bang in Tempe, Arizona and I most recently sang in barbershop quartet form this weekend at a shindig in Towson. If you don’t like the Righteous Brothers (or at least Top Gun), there’s really something wrong with you…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhs3Rj71gpo[/youtube]

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. WNST.net’s Glenn Clark says Ravens LB Sergio Kindle headed to Charm City for evaluation; John Harbaugh won’t rule him out for season

Don’t bother with the “wouldn’t the Ravens have to give him a contract?” comments. The Ravens have ALWAYS planned on giving their 2nd round pick out of Texas a contract. Once he’s been cleared by the doctors that will look at him in Baltimore, the Ravens can move forward with the process of getting a contract done and getting him to Owings Mills.

Kindle will start the season on PUP, but if he were to be able to return by Week 7 it could be a great benefit to this football team. While Antwan Barnes has had a decent preseason, the team could use as much help as they could get from outside backers and in the pass rush area in general.

Kindle would be unable to practice-but could greatly benefit from classroom hours and team meetings after having missed Training Camp. Once activated, he would likely be a scratch the first few weeks as he gets back on the practice field. If at that point he could back on the football field and make some level of impact-that’s a help.

It isn’t a “bonus” necessarily, as NFL teams always expect 2nd round picks to make an impact. But it is MUCH better than what could have been after Kindle was hurt in an accident at a friend’s house in Austin.

I say “if” in all of this, as I also wouldn’t be completely surprised if it didn’t work out the way John Harbaugh and company are hoping it will.

2. WNST.net’s Ryan Chell says ‘no quarterback controversy” between Joe Flacco, Marc Bulger

The frustrating part here is that we even have to address this. It is typically Baltimore to wonder about the other quarterbacks on the roster, as there is a history of having quarterbacks of similar value stacked up. The difference between Kyle Boller and Chris Redman or Elvis Grbac and Randall Cunningham or Scott Mitchell and Tony Banks was just never that great.

I understand this city’s obsession with backup QB’s.

But it’s time to stop.

Hell, it’s long PAST time to stop.

The Ravens have a quarterback. He’s THE guy. He’s the FRANCHISE quarterback. He’s the only quarterback that gives them a chance (if he can improve to “elite” status this season) to win a Super Bowl.

Don’t worry about what other QB’s do against backups in preseason games. It’s completely irrelevant. In fact, don’t worry that there’s even a backup QB on the roster unless (knock on wood) Joe Flacco were to get hurt.

He’s the guy. End of story.

Can we PLEASE agree to stop talking about this moving forward?

3. BaltimoreRavens.com’s Mike Duffy says Jared Gaither has ‘no timetable’ for return from thoracic disc injury

And after talking to Jared yesterday, I have NO gut feeling as to whether or not he will be available September 13 when the Ravens face the New York Jets.

I DO have a gut feeling that I will be spending too much looking at Anya Monzikova today courtesy of Busted Coverage/NextRound.net!

4. National Football Post’s Aaron Wilson says Lardarius Webb ‘unlikely’ to get involved with return game this year

And before we move on from the Ravens, a few things:

-The Ravens are back on the practice field today at 1 Winning Drive, and John Harbaugh will speak to the media at 11:30(ish). Make sure you follow us on Twitter (@WNST), and listen to Thyrl Nelson and Rex Snider throughout the day as we keep you updated LIVE with everything happening in Owings Mills.

-A number of Ravens were not present during the portion of practice open to the media yesterday, including Terrence Cody and Cory Redding-who are not known to be hurt. Hopefully we’ll get some clarification on that today.

-The Ravens will hold their annual Countdown to Kickoff Barbecue tonight at M&T Bank Stadium; and Team President Dick Cass will hold a press conference at 7pm to announce a new fight song for the team-which is expected to be to the tune of the old Baltimore Colts fight song.

5. The AP says Gordon Beckham homered, Gavin Floyd dazzled as Chicago White Sox topped Orioles at US Cellular Field

And with that, the O’s have officially clinched their 13th straight losing season! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

Traditionally, the gift to give on the 13th anniversary is lace. The modern gift to give on the 13th anniversary is textiles or furs. In this case, I’m thinking THIS is a more appropriate gift…

Last night’s game was actually fairly entertaining to watch. Felix Pie and Ty Wigginton made some spectacular defensive plays, and the Birds actually put together a decent 9th inning rally before falling short at the end.

But being excited about a loss is usually only something that happens when you’re watching a team that is mired in a 13th straight losing season.

Ugh.

6. The AP/WNST.net provide numerical evidence of loss

The good news? Luke Scott crushed a BOMB-his 25th of the season; and Brian Roberts and Nick Markakis collected 2 hits and 1 RBI apiece.

The bad news? Over 6.2 innings, Jeremy Guthrie gave up 6 earned runs on 10 hits; walking 2 and striking out 3.

You know you don’t want to look at these numbers. Instead, look at Erica Fabjan and Simona Fabjan-courtesy of Don Chavez. They’re from Slovenia and they play volleyball. What else do you need to know???

7. MLB.com’s Brittany Ghiroli says Adam Jones forced to leave Pale Hose game with shoulder contusion

Which he apparently doesn’t believe to be serious. In fact, here’s what he had to say about it via Twitter…

“All goodie bmore. Imma be back in no time.“

And while we’re on the subject of Adam Jones’ Twitter account, I will be forced to admit that his profile picture is pretty freaking awesome…

8. The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Jim Johnson threw two scoreless innings for Bowie Baysox win over Akron Aeros in rehab appearance on farm

And before we move on from the Orioles, a few things:

-The Birds and White Sox get together again tonight in the Windy City, with Brian Matusz facing Mark Buehrle. First pitch is at 8:10pm and the game can be seen on MASN2.

-Did you miss Baysox pitcher Richard Zagone with Drew Forrester this morning on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST? Make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault today at WNST.net to check it out. Other things you can hear in the Audio Vault include…

• Dannell Ellerbe (Ravens LB)-who woke up early to chat with Drew this morning
• Rich Lord (KILT 610 Houston)-who previewed the Texans (Ravens Week 14 opponent) with Drew this morning as well
• All sorts of audio from Owings Mills yesterday, including John Harbaugh, Joe Flacco, Ray Lewis, Jared Gaither and Matt Birk
• Marcus “The Irish Hand Grenade” Davis (UFC Fighter)-who joined Thyrl Nelson and John Rallo on “The MMA Report” Tuesday
• Allen McCallum (WNST Baseball Analyst)-who joined Rex Snider on “The Afternoon Drive” Tuesday

and even more. It’s all in the Audio Vault, so check it out today. Oh…and…you’re welcome for planning your day for you.

9. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens mocks Navy to Poinsettia Bowl, doesn’t think Maryland reaches bowl game

And in fairness, not much of anyone really thinks Ralph Friedgen’s team is going to find their way to the postseason this year. Of course, one win over the Midshipmen could change a lot of that. Maybe.

Navy is tied in to a trip to San Diego unless they somehow run the table and get themselves in the BCS picture. It’s not impossible either. The tough games on their schedule are Notre Dame (in East Rutherford), Wake Forest, Duke and Maryland. There isn’t an impossible game to win in the mix.

Now-Navy is also a team that has lost some inexplicable games in past years. A loss to Delaware comes to mind-but that was a Delaware team that had a pretty decent quarterback. Fella with eyebrows if I remember right…

10. UMTerps.com’s Shawn Nestor says Dexter McDougle has ‘slight edge’ over Trenton Hughes to start opposite Cameron Chism at CB for Terrapins

Damn! I was really hoping Jo Garcia would win the job. (Thanks The Smoking Jacket!)

And finally, I leave you with this.

As posted by Deadspin, this is the worst thing I have ever seen from a Little League World Series player…

This kid should be ashamed of himself. Heck, his whole country should be ashamed…

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

Happy Thursday!

It’s a Happy Thursday for me because Deadspin introduced me to what is unquestionably the greatest sport ever created by human beings or any other species throughout history. It’s called the “Fight Football League” and it is some sort of combination of football, rugby and Mixed Martial Arts…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXMsmxWRLpY[/youtube]

Here’s actual footage of a match as well…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li9hP6z5DLo[/youtube]

Apparently the sport only exists in Italy, which only goes to prove BASICALLY what we knew all along…Italians are better than everyone. Go ahead and call us “divers” again there Drew Forrester.

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. The AP’s David Ginsburg says Jeremy Guthrie beat up as Orioles fell to Seattle Mariners at Oriole Park at Camden Yards

One of the things we’ve grown accustomed to under Buck Showalter here in Charm City is that he’s going to let his starters pitch.

Last night may not have been the most appropriate time to do that.

Jeremy Guthrie has clearly been this team’s most reliable starter in 2010, but he wasn’t great last night.

Losing 2 of 3 at home to the M’s doesn’t mean doesn’t mean the bloom is off the rose for the new skipper, but it does mean that there is still a level of reality to be understood.

This is a bad team-no matter the manager. We just hope they can continue to be SLIGHTLY better because the skipper continues to light a fire under the asses of as many players as possible.

I think a lot of us had hoped we were past the time when this team would drop 2 of 3 at home to a team like the Mariners. I guess the reality is that they at least showed some effort last night.

2. The AP/WNST.net offer numerical evidence of loss

Hey-Matt Wieters hit a home run. How about that???

Other than that, not a whole lot to see here. So why don’t you take a look at Jessica Hall from Rukus magazine and then we’ll regroup after! (Thanks Guyism!)

3. MLB.com’s Brittany Ghiroli says Manny Machado could report to Sarasota as early as Sunday

I would take this time to warn that this ISN’T Matt Wieters. Machado is coming out of high school in Miami-and no matter how many people compare him to A-Rod, it’s going to take some time. Wieters was coming out of college, and didn’t have as much to prove at Bowie and Norfolk. Machado is going to have to start in the Gulf Coast League, and probably has a LOT of A ball ahead of him in the next year or 2…or 3…or 4.

Just ask Billy Rowell. But we’ll get back to him.

I’d also like to take this to warn that no matter how nice it is described by Don Chavez, the Mila Kunis-Natalie Portman kissing scene PROBABLY won’t be enough to make you want to go see the movie Black Swan-even if it was made by the same guy who made “The Wrestler”. I’m just being honest…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9DevdBithM[/youtube]

4. NBCSports.com’s Bert Blyleven says Buck Showalter can only help O’s ‘so much’

I hate to keep saying this.

If the organization does NOT go get real Major League Baseball players to improve the roster this offseason, nothing is going to change. Even with Buck Showalter as manager, a bad team will lose…like how they’ve lost 2 of 3 to the lowly Mariners this week at home.

If they go get real players AND continue to develop their own (not one OR the other), they’ll have a chance to improve. Even in the mighty AL East. That’s not Glenn Clark saying that, that’s a should-be Hall of Fame pitcher saying that.

5. The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Billy Rowell had big night for Frederick Keys in win over Wilmington Blue Rocks on farm

And before we move on from the Birds, a couple of things…

-The Orioles open up a 4 game series with the Texas Rangers tonight at OPACY; first pitch between Brian Matusz and Colby Lewis is at 7:05pm and the game can be seen on MASN.

-Reliever Jim Johnson is slated to make a rehab appearance for the Frederick Keys starting tonight. I’m not sure what Jim Johnson’s role will be with this team moving forward-but it will be good to at least have him in the mix.

6. WNST.net’s Luke Jones says Oniel Cousins carted from McDaniel College field with ‘headache’ during Ravens Training Camp Wednesday

I’ll take John Harbaugh at his word, but I think this could remain an issue. The bigger issue is that with Jared Gaither, Tony Moll and Cousins all banged up-the team could be left needing Ramon Harewood to play the great majority of the game Saturday night at FedEx Field.

I KNOW the team wants to leave Marshal Yanda at RG and use Chris Chester as a reserve interior lineman-but I get the feeling they have to at least CONSIDER switching Yanda outside for the good of the entire unit at this point.

Hopefully Gaither and Cousins are both ready to go on September 13 against the New York Jets, but I’m not convinced both will be just yet.

7. National Football Post’s Aaron Wilson says CB Lardarius Webb could be activated from PUP list ‘soon’

Wait a second…what is this?

Good news??? From Westminster???

I’m just not so sure I believe it!

In all honesty, it would make a WORLD of difference for the Baltimore Ravens if Lardarius Webb were to begin practicing soon-as it would significantly improve his chances of being on the field in East Rutherford for the Monday Night Football opener.

No matter when Lardarius Webb is activated, I don’t necessarily expect to see him on the field next week against the New York Giants or on the field in two weeks against the St. Louis Rams. That being said, none of that matters.

All that matters is whether or not he can see the field at the Meadowlands. If he can, it helps everything about this team…but you already know that.

You also probably already know that Sheridyn Fisher is a LOVELY gal. (Thanks The Smoking Jacket!)

8. BaltimoreRavens.com’s Ryan Mink says CB Fabian Washington will play Saturday night against Washington Redskins

MORE good news?!?!? WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON HERE!?!?!?

Before we move on from the Ravens, a few things…

-Your LAST chance to view Ravens practice this year is THIS AFTERNOON at 2:45pm. Practice will be closed to the public tomorrow, and the heads back to Owings Mills next week. If you had wanted to get out for Camp, make sure you do it THIS AFTERNOON. Luke Jones is on the scene, he’ll be checking in with Thyrl Nelson and Rex Snider throughout the day.

-Rookie DT Arthur Jones announced on Twitter that he was fined $5,000 for an illegal block during the Carolina Panthers game last Thursday. If I ever Tweet about a $5,000 fine-you can be sure that I’m doing it bankrupt. (You can follow US on Twitter @WNST.)

-Did you miss Ravens Safety/potential punt returner Tom Zbikowski with Thyrl Nelson yesterday on “The Mobtown Sports Beat” here on AM1570 WNST? Make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault today to check it out! Some other things you can check out in the Audio Vault include:

• Audio from Training Camp Wednesday-including John Harbaugh and WR David Reed
• Washington Redskins CB (and former Maryland Terrapins CB) Kevin Barnes-who joined Rex Snider Wednesday afternoon to preview Saturday night’s game
• Steve Wyche (NFL.com)-who talked Brett Favre and more with Rex Wednesday
• Paul White (USA Today)-who talked Buck Showalter, Orioles with Thyrl
• Brian McRae (WHB Kansas City, former Royals OF and Baseball Tonight analyst)-who went around baseball with Thryl
• Larry McReynolds (FOX NASCAR Analyst)-who talked some bumping and grinding with Rex
• All of the Baltimore sports media tryouts you’ve heard on “The Morning Reaction” with Nestor Aparicio

It’s all in the Audio Vault, so once again your day is planned. I’m much too good to you…

9. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says Terps coach Ralph Friedgen planned to meet new University President Wallace D. Loh Wednesday afternoon in College Park

And for more on the hiring of Wallace D. Loh and ALL things Maryland-related, make sure you check out this week’s edition of the “D1scast” with myself and Patrick Stevens. You can hear it in the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault today, and it’s worth checking out.

And while we’re on the topic of Maryland, Patrick also recently passed along that Gary Williams’ basketball team would be facing North Florida December 29 at 8pm at Comcast Center. So…you know…go ahead and cancel your New Year’s Eve trip plans. You can’t miss that!

10. Tribune Newspapers says Michael Phelps won 200 meter butterfly at Pan Pacifics, remained unsatisfied

And finally, I leave you with this.

Geekologie says KFC is testing a new sandwich called “The Skinwich”, which is apparently a sandwich made entirely of fried chicken skin.

Yes. I’m serious…

This is the reason why the United States of America is the greatest country on the face of the planet.

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

Happy Thursday!

It’s a Happy Thursday for me because days like today are the closest I’m going to feel to having a new child myself…at least that I know of. Today there was a new child born in the Chick-Fil-A family; which I count like my own family. Today’s new birth was in Hunt Valley (the mother of “The Artist Formerly Known as The Luckiest Dang Gal on the Face of the Planet” lives there-I wonder if I’m still welcome to visit?).

While Chick-Fil-A Nottingham Square remains my own personal location, I’m always happy to see an addition to the family. I was even HAPPIER when WNST’s new “Quality Control Director” Chris Cortezi came strolling through the front door at 1550 Hart Rd. with this gift, sent by our HERO Susan from Towson…

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. BaltimoreRavens.com’s Mike Duffy says Donte’ Stallworth, Mark Clayton, Tom Zbikowski in mix to be punt returner

Punt return is a strange area this season. Chris Carr was the incumbent and did a decent job last season. Fans were disappointed with the number of times he signaled for a fair catch, but John Harbaugh and Jerry Rosburg were happy to know that he wouldn’t turn the ball over when it was sent to him.

The trouble is-the team now needs Carr to be a starter in the secondary; and they want to keep his focus there. Thus, the punt return job is available for one of these other guys to win. Donte’ Stallworth certainly has the speed to do it and Tom Zbikowski has admirably handled the duties in the past.

Clayton is a particularly interesting character in this cast. His role in the wide receiving corps is a bit diminished, but he still has plenty of speed and is a threat to make plays. That combination could make him a real impact guy in such a position.

2. National Football Post’s Aaron Wilson says Ravens remain in talks with Frank Walker, but he tried out with Miami Dolphins

I know Ravens fans aren’t thrilled with the idea of Frank Walker returning to Charm City, but he’s a legitimate option to be a “plug and play” guy with this team; and they will likely need at least ONE more corner with Cary Williams out for the first two games of the season-assuming Cary makes the roster.

Of course, there are plenty of other options for the team to consider besides Frank Walker. For example, Alessandra Ambrosio would be a tremendous option (Thanks Guyism!)…

3. Fanhouse’s Milton Kent says Ravens preseason games to air in Washington, Harrisburg

And in a story that somehow went unnoticed, WBAL announced that the “Rave TV” weekly programming will air on WBAL Plus (I believe that’s 11.2 on your digital cable); including the “John Harbaugh Show.”

Make your appointments accordingly.

With no offense to the Ravens, WBAL, WBAL Plus, Rave TV, the John Harbaugh Show or people who watch 11.2 looking for an Oprah Winfrey rerun; I think this is a disappointing solution.

Plus, do they realize what they’re up against at 7:30pm? WNUV54 has “Family Guy”, WMAR2 has “Wheel of Fortune” and WUTB 24 has “The Office”! How am I supposed to choose “Purple Passion” ahead of THIS?!?!?

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-wf2pP7T0Y[/youtube]

4. WNST.net’s Luke Jones says Joe Flacco-Anquan Boldin TD on first drive tonight could send M&T Bank Stadium crowd into frenzy

And a few things before we move on from the Ravens…

-The Ravens of course open exhibition season tonight with a showdown against the Carolina Panthers at “The Bank.” The game can be seen live on ESPN-and will be relayed on WJZ13. Jared Gaither and Chris Carr are definitely expected to be out (besides all of the PUP guys); no definitive word on Fabian Washington’s status just yet. Either way, expect to see a lot of Chris Hawkins and Doug Dutch tonight-but don’t forget that the beer will still be the same price.

-Suzy Kolber and the Monday Night Football crew (Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden, Ron Jaworski, and Michelle Tafoya) are working the game for ESPN tonight. She joined Drew Forrester for a GREAT chat this morning on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST; make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault today to check it out. Some other things you can hear in the Audio Vault include…

• Eugene Robinson (Panthers Color Analyst, former Pro Bowl Defensive Back); who previewed tonight’s showdown with Drew
• Orlando Alzugaray (WQAM Miami)-who previewed the Dolphins with Drew as we continue to go around the AFC East and look at the Ravens’ 2010 schedule
• Our weekly “Cheap Shots from the Bleachers”, as I took to task the USTA and the lack of American men in the Top 10 in the World Tennis rankings; and Drew took Neal S from “The Loss Column” to task for calling out O’s fans

There’s plenty more in there from Rex Snider’s Show Wednesday and with Thyrl Nelson on “The Mobtown Sports Beat”, so make sure you go check it out.

Your day? Planned. I’ll accept tips.

5. The AP says Brad Bergesen threw complete game two hitter to lift Orioles past Indians at Progressive Field

I just don’t know what to make of any of it.

As I’ve said before, it is impossible look at this stretch of 9 games and say “okay, it took them a long time-but they’ve finally developed into the type of team we thought they would be.”

Instead, we’re forced to wonder what any of it means. The danger is that Brad Bergesen isn’t just the pitcher who threw a gem in Cleveland last night, he’s a guy who has gone 4-9 this season with a 5.84 ERA. Do you keep a rotation spot in stone for a guy like that next season?

Brian Roberts added another home run last night. I like the Birds more when Brian Roberts is playing. Of course, everyone does.

6. The AP/WNST.net offer numerical evidence of another win

Unbelievably, you actually DO want to look at these numbers. Again. Brad Bergesen’s line enough is enjoyable.

But AFTER you look at the numbers, look at this picture of Christina Hendricks from whatever the hell that show is that she’s on that everyone likes so bad. Mad Men? True Blood? Tosh.0? Hell if I know. (Thanks Busted Coverage!)

7. MLB.com’s Brittany Ghiroli says Buck Showalter will allow Josh Bell to keep playing during slump

And with Miguel Tejada gone, there aren’t a whole lot of other options.

The only concern here is that somehow Bell’s confidence can be hurt between now and the end of the regular season; but the opposing argument would be that he’s a Major League Baseball player-and he just needs to suck it up.

I don’t think the team should be working under the assumption that Bell is ABSOLUTELY the Opening Day 3B next year. Mostly because I would like to see the team go out and get a real legitimate 3B in the offseason.

I’d also like a million dollars. But only the Barenaked Ladies got that wish.

8. LA Times’ Dylan Hernandez says former Oriole Jay Gibbons keeping paycheck he’s getting from Los Angeles Dodgers

Some might call Gibbons a hypocrite for that; but I wouldn’t be amongst them. The dude probably needs the paycheck at this point.

By the way, Jay Gibbons will join Rex Snider this afternoon at 3:15 on AM1570 WNST. My guess is that the words “Mitchell Report” will be uttered at some point.

9. The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Nolan Reimold had two hits for Norfolk Tides in loss to Indianapolis Indians on farm

And before we move on from the O’s, a couple of things.

-The O’s wrap up a 3 game set with the Tribe tonight before heading to Tampa Bay this weekend to face the Rays. Kevin Millwood faces Jeanmar Gomez, first pitch is at 7:05pm and the game can be seen on MASN.

-Lou Montanez began a rehab assignment with the Bowie Baysox last night, Jim Johnson is expected to begin his tonight. I support the Bowie Baysox myself and think you should as well.

10. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says Maryland TE Lansford Watson limited with knee swelling

In that case, the Terrapins may be in need of some help at TE. May I suggest Ralph Friedgen and the Terps consider Bar Rafaeli??? (Thanks Don Chavez!)

And finally, I leave you with this.

NEW JIMMY EAT WORLD! NEW JIMMY EAT WORLD! OMFG NEW JIMMY EAT WORLD!!!

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWOsyA3To3o[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

With the bullpen completely spent after extensive work in the last three games, the Orioles needed immediate relief help.

The Orioles announced a series of roster moves prior to Wednesday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Lefty reliever Mike Gonzalez has been reinstated from the 60-day disabled list, left-handed pitcher Troy Patton has been recalled from Triple-A Norfolk, and third baseman Josh Bell has been optioned to the Tides. To make room for Gonzalez on the 40-man roster, Jim Johnson has been moved from the 15-day disabled list to the 60-day disabled list.

Gonzalez was placed on the disabled list on April 10 with a strained left shoulder. At the time of his injury, Gonzalez had recorded one save in three appearances, much to fans’ chagrin.

Patton was 6-9 with a 4.91 ERA in 18 starts for Norfolk this season. He posted a 3.44 ERA over his last nine outings for Norfolk. This will be Patton’s first stint in the big leagues since 2007. Patton’s stay with the Orioles could be brief, as Kevin Millwood is expected to return from the disabled list to make the start on Thursday night. Patton will wear uniform No. 54.

Bell batted .263 (6-19) in six games for the Orioles and had been rotting away on the bench in his latest stint with Baltimore.

Johnson has been on the disabled list since May 28 with right elbow inflammation. He was 1-1 with one save and a 6.52 ERA in 10 games for the Orioles.

UPDATE: As expected, the Orioles optioned Patton back to Norfolk following Wednesday’s 5-4 loss to the Rays. Kevin Millwood will be activated Thursday to make the start in the first of a four-game set against the Minnesota Twins.