This week has been packed with significant developments for the Orioles. To recap:
After being stuck in scoring position for what seemed like an eternity, the nation's capital is now "rounding third and...heading for home," according to D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams (echoing John Fogerty, who in turn took a page from Chuck Berry) at Wednesday's press conference announcing MLB's intent to move the Montreal Expos to Washington for next season. (At the moment, the brown-eyed, handsome man of song appears to be the bow-tied Mr. Williams.)
The Sun, Washington Post, and Washington Times have sent out a full-court press to cover the story. Here are links to Thursday's main news stories on the move:
- D.C. rejoins big leagues as Expos begin packing (Baltimore Sun)
- Baseball's Coming Back to Washington (Washington Post)
- D.C. gets Expos; 33-year wait over (Washington Times)
Obviously, the Expos' move will have a significant drain on the Orioles' revenues. Owner Peter Angelos is negotiating a compensation deal to offset possible losses in media reach and attendance.
The Orioles' front office is revamping its scouting and development systems. The contracts of scouting director Tony DeMacio and minor-league director Doc Rodgers will not be renewed after the season.
From Baseball America: “Orioles Shake Up Scouting Department”
The rule-interpreters at the MLB offices have determined that the Orioles no longer have rights to negotiate with pitcher Wade Townsend. The Birds' top draft pick in June, Townsend aborted his NCAA eligibility by signing with an agent, then returned to class at Rice in August to finish his bachelor's degree, putting himself in limbo with baseball's negotiating rules. For now, he is off-limits to the Orioles and will probably re-enter next year's draft, giving the Orioles a supplemental pick between the first and second rounds. However, there is a slight possibility that MLB will grant Baltimore an opportunity to sign Townsend before the 2005 draft, in the manner of draft-and-follow signees.
From Baseball America: “MLB Denies Townsend's Gamble”
Analysis of these developments will be forthcoming.