Significance of the Jaire Alexander Signing
As I started drafting this piece, it was announced that the Ravens inked a one-year deal with former Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander. Both Lamar Jackson and Alexander, who were college roommates, entered the 2018 draft together. When a reporter queried Jackson about leveraging their shared past to entice Alexander to Baltimore, his response was simple: “Go get him, Eric [DeCosta, the Ravens’ general manager].” Interestingly, it seems Alexander was likely already in the area. As news of the agreement spread, the Ravens’ social media accounts had already shared images of him signing the contract. Usually, it takes a player a day or two to reach team facilities, indicating that discussions were underway well before Jackson spoke publicly. The Ravens certainly have some clever strategists at work!
This signing highlights DeCosta’s commitment to equipping the team for a Super Bowl run. This offseason, he has made several significant moves, like retaining offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley, extending wide receiver Rashod Bateman, signing wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, and drafting outside linebacker Mike Green in the second round—who many analysts considered a top 15 talent. Now, acquiring Alexander further strengthens the roster.
However, some may point out that Alexander’s health is a substantial concern. He has only played 14 games over the past two seasons and hasn’t completed a full season since 2021. This injury history was a pivotal factor in the Packers deciding to let him go, as they effectively moved forward without him. Yet, when healthy, Alexander ranks among the top cornerbacks in the league. He joins a robust secondary that already features Kyle Hamilton, Marlon Humphrey, Nate Wiggins, and 2025 first-round pick Malaki Starks. DeCosta is working hard to minimize excuses for the Ravens not achieving a Super Bowl victory, and should they fall short, the blame cannot be directed his way. Remarkably, he may not be finished making moves this offseason.
The Orioles Are… Making a Comeback?
Currently, the Orioles are experiencing an upswing, having secured 10 wins out of their last 14 games as of June 18. They seem to be regaining their health just when it matters most. The returns of Jordan Westburg and Colton Cowser have energized their previously stagnant offense, resembling the team everyone hoped for earlier in the season. Gunnar Henderson is heating up, and Ryan O’Hearn remains a key player in the lineup. Notably, after having one of the worst team ERAs (earned run averages) on May 31, the Orioles’ pitching staff has since ranked among the best. It begs the question: is this improvement due to healing players or managerial changes? Perhaps it’s a mix of both. While players reacted emotionally to Hyde’s recent firing, they seem to have adapted well under interim manager Tony Mansolino. A significant move by Mansolino was to ensure that Jackson Holliday would be a consistent presence in the lineup, barring any days off or injuries. The team is playing more aggressively, particularly in stealing bases and improving their batting approaches. Even Adley Rutschman has shown progress in managing stolen bases. It’s still uncertain if it’s too late for a wild-card contention, but we’ve seen other teams succeed after changing managers, so we’ll see what transpires in Baltimore. I’m not yet ready to blast the “Orioles Magic” song, but the outlook is certainly more promising.
Should the Orioles Buy, Sell, or Stand Pat?
The Orioles face some crucial choices in the coming weeks. Should they trade away valuable assets like Cedric Mullins and Ryan O’Hearn in preparation for future seasons, or bolster the current roster for a potential turnaround? Or should they let circumstances dictate their approach? The latter option seems less viable. They must either aim for a push now, indicating a buyer’s stance, or choose to sell and focus on building for the future. The existing roster has greatly contributed to a sluggish start to the season, and even though injuries have been a factor, numerous challenges persist even with a healthy team. Charlie Morton has improved since his rocky start and demotion, but he doesn’t compensate for the loss of Corbin Burnes. Grayson Rodriguez’s potential return is pushed back to the second half of the season, Cade Povich is dealing with injuries, and the bullpen has been frequently overworked. With Zach Eflin possibly on the trading block as well, the pitching landscape appears rather bleak. The Orioles need to make significant decisions, and their recent victories complicate matters. As the saying goes, no pressure, no diamonds. Let’s hope they make the right choices.
Angel Reese Turning Trolls Into Triumph
One of my favorite stories this week features Baltimore’s own Angel Reese. Last season, the Chicago Sky forward set a single-season record for rebounds, but critics have humorously noted that many of those were her own missed shots. This year, social media users have continued to jab at her, calling the rebounds “Mebounds.” Instead of being disheartened, Reese decided to trademark the term and monetize it. I absolutely love this for two reasons: Firstly, it turns a would-be insult into a clever marketing tool, and secondly, it highlights the negative impact of mean-spirited comments for social media clout.
Bravo, Angel. And I wouldn’t mind a t-shirt to commemorate this!
