The Baltimore Orioles are facing a situation that feels like it’s straight out of a “Back to the Future” movie. Now they are thinking about what the future holds for baseball. Specifically, they’re contemplating what lies ahead for the next decade or so.
During the three-game series at Minute Maid Park, it felt like both the Orioles and the Houston Astros were looking at themselves in a mirror. The Orioles, once considered baseball’s laughingstock just two years ago, now observed the Astros and recognized that they, too, were once in a similar position.
Nightengale knows what’s up. pic.twitter.com/iKekKh0m9q
— Michael Schwab (@michaelschwab13) September 24, 2023
Astros veteran catcher Martin Maldonado commented, “You look at them, and it’s exactly how we were built. It’s scary.”
Before the Orioles even thought about tanking, the Astros endured seasons of struggle, losing 106, 107, and 111 games consecutively from 2011 to 2013. During this difficult time, they were able to gather some really talented players through the draft, which eventually helped them become one of the best franchises in baseball. The Astros are really proud of their two World Series titles, four pennants, and an amazing streak of six consecutive appearances in the American League Championship Series.
The Baltimore Orioles really have the second best record in the mlb who would’ve thought ??
— Mr Carter (@CoachK915) September 24, 2023
Now, the Orioles, who made their postseason return in 2023, just two years after suffering a 110-loss season, appear poised to follow a similar trajectory to the Astros, potentially establishing a dynasty over the next decade.
Astros two-time World Series champion Justin Verlander noted, “Their organization is really stacked. They got some really young good players, and they hit. Do they ever hit.”
In the recent series, the Orioles secured two out of three wins, leaving both teams with a sense that they may cross paths again, perhaps even in the American League Championship Series.
Astros starter Kyle Gibson emphasized the importance of competing against the best, saying, “To go where we want to go, you’ve got to beat the best. And they’ve been the best.’’
The #Orioles on brink of AL East title, magic number: 4.
Astros see themselves in Baltimore Orioles ahead of MLB playoffs https://t.co/zSlftiJZED— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) September 24, 2023
While the Orioles find themselves in uncharted territory, this time of year is where the Astros shine. They have a good understanding of the challenges that come with playoff baseball and have the right amount of experience to perform well during the postseason.
Astros third baseman Alex Bregman, accustomed to World Series expectations, emphasized, “I saw how everyone in here goes about their business… you’ve got to embrace that bullseye.’’
The Astros fully acknowledge that they are a team that evokes both admiration and resentment, especially after their involvement in a cheating scandal in 2017. Regardless, they maintain a consistent winning streak, with a strong determination to establish a long-lasting legacy and strengthen their dynasty.
Even though the Astros have had a tough season with challenges like injuries to important players, they continue to stay confident and resilient. Manager Dusty Baker understands the importance of staying positive even when faced with negativity. The Astros are committed to maintaining their success and moving forward.
The Baltimore Orioles play the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on September 24, 2023. https://t.co/0hxQLGXuSJ
— Baltimore Sun Sports (@BaltSunSports) September 24, 2023
Regarding the Orioles, they have a really talented group of young players and are considered to be a team with a promising future. The Astros respect them but remain undaunted by the challenge they pose. While the Astros are aiming for back-to-back titles, they are cautious, knowing that the Orioles, with their youthful vigor, might make it look easier than expected.
Astros closer Ryan Pressly stated, “If we see them in the postseason, we’ve got our work cut out for us, but believe me, we’ll be ready.’’
In baseball, the torch is eventually passed, and the Orioles appear poised to seize it. However, the timing of this transition remains uncertain.
Alex Bregman acknowledged the Orioles’ potential, saying, “They’ve got a good ballclub… it looks they will be for a long time. This is our time.”
