Jerry Coleman: Adam Jones--Oriole For Life?
Center fielder Adam Jones made Orioles history after the team "backed up the Brinks truck " and awarded him a franchise record six year, $85 million dollar contract extension through the 2018 season. By then, he will have been on this team for ten seasons. The O's acquired him in 2008, from the Seattle Mariners, in what seems like a "steal of a deal" . The Orioles received Jones and four other players in exchange for pitcher Erik Bedard in that a trade.
VIDEO OF DAN DUQUETTE'S OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Jones, currently is in his fifth year with the club and in 2011 he was named club MVP, while a setting career high, appearing in 151 games for the Birds. He did not just set a benchmark in appearing in games, he also set career highs offensively as well. Jones had a career high 26 doubles, 25 home runs, 83 runs batted in and much more. His bat and personality have also added something that the Orioles have missed in awhile. Just like his Manager said he is not a "robot".
VIDEO OF ADAM JONES' STATEMENT
To add to his accolades in 2011 Jones was the Orioles' nominee for Major League Baseballs Roberto Clemente Award for his involvement in the Baltimore Community. Adam Jones enjoys making an impact for the underprivileged youth. He has taken part in the First Lady Michelle Obama's "Lets Move" campaign kickoff clinic at Camden Yards in 2010. He is also involved in many other organizations to help the kids. In addition to helping kids he also enjoying helping out the animals as he has partnered with the BARCS (Baltimore Animal and Rescue Care Shelter). He helps them by posing for the Orioles REACH Pet Calendar and raises awareness for animal cruelty in the inner city. Also, Jones provides a ballpark experience to the underprivileged children that package includes the opportunity to attend the game, complimentary game tickets, concessions, Orioles hats and T-shirts, and making sure they have transportation to and from the game.
Adam Jones was born in San Diego California and drafted by the Seattle Mariners in 2003. Even though he is not from Baltimore with him signing the six year extension the All-star, and Gold Glove winner might just be a Baltimore Oriole for life.
