When a team experiences years of mediocrity and losing seasons, people do not expect much of those teams. The lull of a team’s lack of success leads to people undermining that team, even if the atmosphere changes.

Due to baseball’s unpredictability, anything can happen. Teams can go “worst-to-first,” where a team's outlook changes in a season. One year’s bottom feeder can turn into a surprising contender, spearheaded by leadership to oversee the development and direction of the team.

The 2022 Baltimore Orioles were predicted by many as a team that would sink but have instead proven they can play competitive baseball. Not many predicted this coming outside of Baltimore, but the Orioles remain in contention for a Wild Card berth past the trade deadline. Despite trading their two best players, Trey Mancini, and breakout closer Jorge Lopez, at the trade deadline, the Orioles continue to win baseball games. The Orioles have seen solid performances from nearly every position player and a bullpen amongst baseball’s best. The Orioles have proved they are no longer a bottom feeder.

Featuring a bullpen with out-of-nowhere relievers such as Dillon Tate, Félix Bautista, and Cionel Pérez, the Orioles are relying on an unheralded but competitive bullpen. If there is one caveat to the Orioles' success, their starting pitching has been less reliable. If the Orioles continue to use their strong bullpen as they have, bullpen overuse could be possible by the end of the season. However, by utilizing a terrific team effort, Baltimore can prove that rebuilds can work, but patience is necessary. Prioritizing long-term assets and creating a young core can flip the switch.

The 2022 Orioles are a young and hungry team that has become fun to watch. One player can change the attitude of a team, as Adley Rutschman did. Subverting fan and league expectations have proved that this season is a success for the Orioles, and the future remains bright for Baltimore.

References

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