Tips for the Second Half
As we approach the All-Star Break, the traditional half-way point in the season, the Orioles are fighting, clawing, scrapping, and winning their way into the postseason. But since it’s a very long season, there are a few things that Baltimore players, coaches and front-office personnel should consider.
Time for some midseason thought…
1. Bench Chris Davis. That’s right. I said it. While the shock is still there, let me repeat: Bench Chris Davis. I see it’s already happened today. This is a good thing. Give him at least three days to do nothing but sit on the bench and watch. Let the hunger for play get back to a full burn. Resetting the motivation can be worth it – if he is willing to learn Buck’s original lesson that no one’s job is safe. Crush is a top-notch player. Great glove. Threatening bat. But something isn’t right. Time to sit down and relax for a day or so to get his head out of the southbound end.
2. Stabilize the rotation. Is Kevin Gausman in the lineup or in the minors? Is Chen supposed to pitch more than 6 innings, like everyone else? Will Jimenez get some consistent run support?
3. Keep Manny on a tight leash. Happy Birthday, Manny Machado. Here’s your present: a tight leash. We Orioles fans love you. You’ve got a great amount of potential that has translated into all-star talent. You have the best shot at being the next superstar for Baltimore. But the temptation to be a bad boy needs to be reigned in, and that right quickly. What does that mean? Easy. First sign of bad behavior on or off the field, and you are going back to Frederick. While fans at Harry Grove Stadium would love to see you, I’m sure this would feel like an insult. Don’t try it.
4. Get Nolan Reimold back. Toronto has claimed him off of waivers. Good for him. Personally, I like him. Nolan is a standup guy. I’ve never met him, but I know some who have. I wish him the best. But I can’t help but think that designating him for assignment is going to bite Baltimore later in the season.
Disagree with me all you want (Twitter @ACHefty). But these are a few intangibles that I believe will help Baltimore make it to the post-season.
