After 6 Weeks In Sunny Sarasota, Orioles Ready For Opening Day
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The Orioles start a new season with Opening Day, taking on the Boston Red Sox Monday afternoon.
Mark Viviano has more on the team's final preparations.
The Sunday workout is a washout, but after six weeks of workouts under mostly sunny skies down in Florida, the Orioles feel like they're ready for Opening Day.
There's plenty of orange and sunshine in the forecast for the opener. And with it, there's also plenty of optimism and anticipation--both for the players and the fans.
The players know the fans will be expecting a great show and an exciting season.
"They're going to be cheering loud, having beers, having crab pretzels--I want one--having some Boogs and enjoying some good baseball," outfielder Adam Jones said.
"I know they love the Orioles so, that's the only thing I care. And like I say, my team's embraced me very well and it makes this transition more easy for me," outfielder Nelson Cruz said.
Cruz is one of seven Orioles who are new to the team in 2014. The O's feel like they had a successful preseason, acquiring new talent, mixing the new with the tried and true and putting it all together who what they expect to be a winning season ahead.
"Coming from spring training to Baltimore, especially opening up at home, it's a big difference. But at the same time, the baseball field is where we're comfortable," pitcher Chris Tillman said.
"I know one game isn't going to make or break your season, especially early on, but you want to get off to a good start, get the momentum rolling, especially just having a few games at home and then having to go on the road," said first baseman Chris Davis.
There is an injury concern for the Orioles on Opening Day. Outfielder Nick Markakis has been suffering from neck spasms.
Manager Buck Showalter says he has prepared two Opening Day lineups--one with Markakis and one without.
The Orioles start the season Monday, hosting the world champion Boston Red Sox at Camden Yards. Coverage begins at 2 p.m. and you can see the game live on WJZ-TV.
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