http://baltimore.orioles.mlb.com/ne...21&content_id=26417016&vkey=news_bal&c_id=balDuquette, Orioles optimistic at FanFest
BALTIMORE -- It was a different vibe at the Orioles annual FanFest on Saturday, with last year's Derrek Lee addition and rumors of the soon-to-be-signed Vladimir Guerrero giving way to a sense of optimism unmatched in any of the team's more recent campaigns. 2012's unofficial kickoff party at the Baltimore Convention Center was more subdued, as new executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette continues to focus efforts on less-flashy upgrades, front-office changes and efforts to fix the organization's player development and Minor League system.
But for the fans who braved Baltimore's first real snowfall to pack the Convention Center, the atmosphere was anything but disappointing, as nearly every Orioles player turned out for an afternoon of autographs, meet-and-greets, and interviews that left everyone involved eager for Spring Training.
"Winning is important to me," said shortstop J.J. Hardy, who believes this O's squad can exceed expectations. "I see a lot of potential. I really do. I feel like we've got a lot of young pitchers, and I think it's time for them to step up and do what they are capable of. I know that's what everyone has been saying for a couple of years now, but they've got a few more years under their belt, and I think it's time for them to go out and do it."
I can draw three things from last year.
1. They eliminated the Red Sox.
2. With basically no real pitching, they were almost .500 into May
3. JJ Hardy needs his fuckin eyes examined.
I'm going to say this year will be a 72-90 type season at best. If Matusz comes back somewhat healthy they may even get there.