Things Learned From Baltimore Orioles FanFest

While Baltimore Orioles fans are preparing for a rough season of rebuilding, was there hope to be found at FanFest?

Rebuilds do not always mean a down season because anything can happen in sports. A new MLB season is on the horizon which means hope springs eternal. Pitchers and catchers return soon and the boys of summer will once again crack the bats and shine on the diamond. This past January, the Baltimore Orioles rolled out the orange carpet and introduced a new manager, GM, and new expectations in regard to the future. If you’re an Orioles fan there are some key things to walk away from Fanfest knowing that maybe you were in the dark with before.

Doubling down on analytics

Let’s be honest, the previous front office in the organization did not heavily emphasize the creation of winning consistency. The Boston Red Sox, Houston Astros, and Chicago Cubs all have one thing in common as their usage of analytics have led to championship caliber teams.

The Baltimore Orioles are playing catch up to the modern game. For the Mike Elias era, the orange and black is touching new territory for the first time in 65 years down this road. Elias brought Mejda in, and the former NASA researcher has been given him the responsibility of molding this team.

Fanfest reassured that Elias and his staff are invested in this process because not only will this create a structure for the O’s, but will also finally have everyone on the same page in the front office. Have faith Orioles fans because this current organization has structure.

The Chris Davis comeback

Chris Davis had one of the worst seasons in MLB history last year. His slump even went so far as to be called out by Hall of Famer Jim Palmer in regards to his lack of change to his technique.

This season looks to be different according to Davis. The first baseman has mentioned that he has taken advantage of the of the off-season to make adjustments. At Fanfest, Davis said that 2018 was a fluke in regards to his hitting slump.

The Baltimore Orioles have acquired the new hitting coach, Don Long. There is an opportunity for rejuvenation to Davis’ career come the 2019 season.

The Brandon Hyde era

The 20th Manager hired in Baltimore Orioles history made his first appearance to the public at Fanfest. The current skipper did not disappoint in his question and answer session.

More from Call to the Pen

• Philadelphia Phillies, ready for a stretch run, bomb St. Louis Cardinals
• Philadelphia Phillies: The 4 players on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
• Boston Red Sox fans should be upset over Mookie Betts’ comment
• Analyzing the Boston Red Sox trade for Dave Henderson and Spike Owen
• 2023 MLB postseason likely to have a strange look without Yankees, Red Sox, Cardinals

Hyde emphasized transparency and honesty within the organization during the rebuilding process. Both Hyde and Elias cautiously mentioned that the process of change may not be quick and emphasized the goal this year is to continue to rebuilding process from the ground up in order to enhance the talent base in the organization.

Hyde emphasized the importance of players holding one another accountable and taking responsibility. The fan base has adapted quickly to this new manager and the growth will be interesting when it comes to April.

Baltimore Orioles legends are still here

Brooks Robinson, Eddie Murray, Jim Palmer, and many more came out in full support of the Fanfest. As a fan, you would have no choice but to feel excited for the sense of familiarity amidst a rebuild with the legends conference and autograph sessions.

Nothing can stop change from occurring, but just to have a little familiarity along the way will never be neglected.

While change is coming for Baltimore Orioles fans, plenty of hope abounded at Fanfest and should give an optimistic look to the 2019 season and beyond.