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ramblingsmlb · 2 years ago

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The Awe-Inspiring Potential of the Baltimore Orioles (And how the front office can mess it up)

As the 2022 season winded down to a close, the annual clinching of postseason berth time began. The Dodgers, who went to win 111 games, the most since the Mariners won a record 116 games in 2001, clinched on September 12th. Next, the Houston Astros clinched on September 16th, and the New York Mets clinched the postseason on September 20th. These, of course, were not shocking. The Dodgers, Astros, and Mets ranked 2nd, 9th, and 1st in overall payroll.

And on September 30th, with the Mariners clinching postseason berth and ending a 21 year playoff drought, the Baltimore Orioles were eliminated. No one expected the Orioles to get this far, the Orioles, whose payroll ranked 28th out of 30 MLB teams, a third of which was going to Chris Davis, who was being paid to not play as a result of one of the worst contracts in the modern era, in what was the best division in baseball.

No one expected this Orioles team to be competitive, but now they've forced the front office's hand in the matter. This team's young talent that comes up in the next two years is unparalleled, after picking 11th, 1st, 2nd, 5th, and 1st again in the Draft the last five years, the Orioles have the ability to build a true juggernaut in the next couple of years.

However, as much as I'd like to have the Orioles succeed, I do have concerns, concerns that link up to the very top of the organization.

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MLB LEVEL

On the major league roster, the Orioles have managed to unlock some key players that they project to keep for a while. Austin Hays, Ryan Mountcastle, Cedric Mullins, Anthony Santander, Ramon Urias, and impressive developments in the bullpen all give me hope for the team's development at the major league level.

None of the pieces mentioned are excellent players. The best is probably Cedric Mullins, and none of these players are stars, but they're all average to above-average players that came into the season with little to no real expectations, and showed that they can be serious contributors to this team.

In the outfield, it seems to be held up by Anthony Santander, Cedric Mullins, and Austin Hays. Santander has had a couple good offensive years now, hitting 33 HRs in 2022 with a 120 wRC+. Santander has an average hit tool, and isn't a great athlete or defender, but his bat gives him enough power to be a significant contributor, and he doesn't strike out much.

Austin Hays is boring, but good. Hays is about average with everything, hit tool, power, arm, speed, and field, but he's a solid contributor in the league's weakest position of left field.

I don't know what Cedric Mullins is. I think it's pretty clear he's a very good player. Plus speed, plus glove give him a very high floor, and he's proven that he can buoy that with at least average offensive prowess, but is there more there? Mullins was a 136 wRC+ and 6 fWAR player in 2021, with plus power and a plus hit tool. In 2022, the power and the hit tool regressed back to a 106 wRC+, though he still posted a 3.4 fWAR. In all likelihood, Mullins will never have a season like 2021 again. That being said, can he be a consistent 4 WAR player and his offense becomes more 110-120 wRC+ rather than 95-105 wRC+? We'll see. I don't have a confident opinion in favor of one side or another.

In the infield, the starters project to be Ryan Mountcastle at first base, Adam Frazier at second base, Jorge Mateo at shortstop, Gunnar Henderson at third base, and Adley Rutschman at catcher.

I really like Ryan Mountcastle. Another player who seemingly came out of nowhere, Mountcastle was a pretty good offensive player who was negatively impacted by the wall getting moved back in left field. Mountcastle projects to be an average to above average offensive performer, and about an average first baseman.

Adam Frazier is a decent player, a slap hitter with average defense, average run tool, and no power. Frazier hit .309 with a 113 wRC+ on 2021 split between the Pirates and the Padres, but struggled with a 81 wRC+ in 2022 with the Mariners. I do expect Frazier to bounce back from his dismal 2022 season, I don't expect much offensively, maybe 95-105 wRC+, but not amazing potential or upside. He's solid, that's it.

Jorge Mateo is a weird shortstop. Defensively, he's nasty, and his speed and base running is top notch, but he doesn't have a bat. Mateo's career high in wRC+ is 83, he strikes out 26-30% of the time, and doesn't walk. He'll have bursts of power, but he strikes out and struggles to make contact too much to the point when he's unable to maintain hot streaks. Mateo is a stopgap until the Orioles find someone better at the very least. I would personally be shocked if he started 2023 with the Orioles, and I would be pleased if he wasn't starting after the Trade Deadline because they traded for a better shortstop.

I'll save Gunnar Henderson for the farm system overview, so I'll move on to Adley Rutschman. The common pattern with the Orioles is that there's a lot of average players, offensively and pitching-wise, but that ends with Adley Rutschman, who is a top three catcher as of this moment. Personally, I do think that Adley Rutschman was a better prospect than Julio Rodriguez coming into 2022, and he lived up to expectations for me. Gold Glove caliber defense behind the dish with a plus arm, his defensive value is immense. Offensively, the ceiling is MVP-level. A certified 60-65 hit tool, plus power, and incredibly impressive plate discipline for a rookie, with a 13.8% walk rate that ranked 11th of all major leaguers, an 18.3% strikeout rate that's 4% below league average, his wRC+ finishing at 133. Adley Rutschman is a top thirty player in the league, and if he taps into his plus power more, that's a certified 6+ WAR player and a perennial MVP candidate. This is the guy. This is the kind of guy you build around. This is a star.

Offense (20-80 Scale): 53

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On the pitching side, there is genuine concern. Kyle Gibson, a 35 year old pitcher coming off a bad year, is their ace. I do think Gibson isn't bad, but he's a #4. Beyond that, it's Kyle Bradish, who's a #5, Dean Kramer, who's a #5, Tyler Wells shouldn't be in the rotation, and then there's two wild cards in DL Hall and Grayson Rodriguez, who I strongly believe they should both start 2023 in the rotation. Grayson Rodriguez does not need conditioning in Triple A. He has nothing to prove in Triple A. DL Hall has nothing to prove in Triple A. Both are Top 100 Prospects who you need to build the weakest part of your team around.

Rotation (20-80 Scale): 44

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The bullpen is actually surprisingly good. I like Felix Bautista, I like Dillon Tate, I like Cionel Perez, I like Bryan Baker. We'll see with Mychel Givens. I'm more middle of the pack with the other guys who start in the bullpen, but they developed those four in 2023 and made them the focal point of the bullpen, which is typically a very healthy sign for an organization. If you can find and develop bullpen players one year, you can typically do it again.

Bullpen (20-80 Scale): 54

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THE FARM SYSTEM:

As of right now, the Orioles have a consensus top three farm system in the game, with, at least I believe, eight top 100 prospects: Gunnar Henderson, Grayson Rodriguez, Jackson Holliday, Colten Cowser, Jordan Westburg, DL Hall, Coby Mayo, and Heston Kjerstead.

Gunnar Henderson is the one player I didn't mention on the 2023 opening day roster, their projected third baseman. Gunnar Henderson, in my opinion, is my #1 prospect in MLB. A certified plus hit tool, plus power, plus speed, plus arm, and plus defense, I view Gunnar Henderson about as good of a prospect as Bobby Witt Jr. was entering 2022, maybe a touch worse, who I saw as the #3 prospect in 2022. Henderson flashes incredible athleticism and shocking speed for a guy who's getting 45-50 grades from public platforms. Henderson also flashed a top notch arm and raw defensive potential at three positions. While he's a plus third baseman, could he be an adequate shortstop, or an adequate second baseman? We'll see about that, but he has a decent chance of either of those working out. The ceiling with him is a bona fide star, and maybe there's a five tool player. Again, with Rutschman and Rodriguez, these are all star-level players you build around.

Grayson Rodriguez would have an excellent argument for #1 prospect in baseball if he hadn't gotten an oblique injury that wiped out three months from his 2022. Grayson Rodriguez has gotten legitimate comps to the likes of Gerrit Cole, with four pitches at least plus. His fastball projects as plus to double plus, his slider plus to double plus, his changeup plus to double plus, his curveball as plus, with premium command you simply don't find with this kind of stuff. To put it simply, Grayson Rodriguez is a raw, generational pitching talent, who's proved it at every level. There's zero reason to keep him in Triple A to begin the year with the Orioles' mediocre rotation pieces. Grayson Rodriguez has the ability to establish himself as a top pitcher in the league if given the choice by his team.

Jackson Holliday was the most recent #1 pick in the draft, a high school shortstop with incredible helium and upside, with strong bloodline connections to All-Star and borderline Hall of Famer Matt Holliday. Holliday's tools are hard to quantify at this point, but there's massive upside that comes with the fact that he likely won't make an impact at the major league level for at least three years.

Colton Cowser is a former top college performer, a real offensive force who's rocketed through the minors since his Drafting in 2021, reaching Triple A in 2022. Cowser was initially a hit-over-power outfielder with good tools across the board who turned into more of a power-over-hit guy in 2022, striking out 25% of the time, but hitting 19 HRs in 138 games. Overall, a very good prospect who probably moves to left or right field, where he projects to be average to above average defensively.

Jordan Westburg is a strong offensive performer with a low-ceiling, high floor projection. I view Westburg as a budget Gunnar Henderson, a certified infielder who splits time evenly between second base, third base, and shortstop. Westburg projects to be a solid offensive contributors, but doesn't scream "impact." Westburg flashed plus power and spent significant time at Triple A, which he succeeded in, though his hit tool may be squarely average.

DL Hall is an intriguing prospect, a small lefty arm with big stuff, whose ceiling projects as a strong #3, while his floor is a high-leverage reliever. DL Hall is a fairly divisive prospect who some label as a potential middle of the rotation starter, while others say that he's a multi inning or high-leverage reliever. I don't lean either way, but he pitched 13.2 innings in 2022, with a big fastball, big curveball, and intriguing changeup. His 5.93 ERA is contested by a 1.65 FIP, a 2.57 xERA, a 2.84 xFIP, a 29.7% K rate, and a 46.2% GB rate, though those numbers are from a small sample size where he pitched out of the bullpen most of the time. There is command concerns (5.1 BB/9 in the minors, 9.7% BB rate at majors), and injury concern, given how he's never pitched over 100 innings in a major league season, but if he's healthy, there's no reason not to start DL Hall in the rotation to the begin the year.

Coby Mayo is a high upside, low floor third base prospect who got people excited when he mashed in 2021 after getting drafted. While Mayo has big power and a big arm, the athleticism is below average, which may force him to first base in the future if it continues to trend downhill. Coby Mayo has maxed out at Double A, meaning I would personally be surprised if he made significant impact to the Orioles in 2022, also given that the Orioles have quite a lot of third base depth with Ramon Urias, Gunnar Henderson, and Jordan Westburg all in front of Mayo on the depth chart.

Heston Kjerstead is an intriguing outfield prospect. Selected #2 underslot in the 2020 draft, Kjerstead was projected to be a big power, high upside outfielder that would rush to the majors. However, Heston Kjerstead didn't play in 2020 due to the shortened COVID season, and suffering from myocarditis, a heart inflammation issue, he didn't begin playing until June 2022, and the Orioles want to take it slow with him, ease him back into earning back valuable development time. Kjerstead mashed in Single A, but struggled in a 43 game stint in High A, all of which shouldn't be taken too seriously. Kjerstead is at least a year and a half from the majors on the low end, and all now is being used for is regaining the time he lost.

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FARM SUMMARY:

To be frank, I believe this is the best farm system in the league, with an incredible mix of high-end talent, upper minors talent, outfielder, infielder, lefties, righties, and pitching talent.

When it comes to development, I'll admit it, I'm truly impressed. The Orioles' strategy of going under slot in the draft has certainly paid off. While the Orioles have had their success with their first round talents, Gunnar Henderson, Jordan Westburg, and Coby Mayo are all prime examples of talent they've properly developed outside of the first round. The Orioles have the best position player prospect, and the best pitching prospect in the league, which, to be honest, is all they really need if the front office is open to augmenting the roster with major free agency upgrades, but the depth just provides more floor and more ceiling at the same time.

However, management of this depth and their prospects is where I could possibly see a disconnect between me and the front office. I project that Gunnar Henderson, DL Hall, Grayson Rodriguez, Colton Cowser, and Jordan Westburg will make impact at the major league level, unless any of them deal with significant injury. As of right now, though, I would start Henderson at third base, and start both DL Hall and Grayson Rodriguez in the rotation, while giving Cowser and Westburg just a touch more developmental time in Triple A before getting called up in May or June. That being said, I'm not sure either DL Hall or Grayson Rodriguez start on the roster to being 2022, which would make me furious.

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HOW THEY CAN FAIL:

This is as good of a foundation as you can draw up, to put it simply. It's a better foundation than the Mariners had after 2021. The Orioles have a star at the major league level right now in Rutschman. The Orioles have literally no payroll on the books. The Orioles have waves set up to impact the majors right now. Now is the time to be aggressive, to start your guys, Hall and Rodriguez, in the rotation. Why not? This is your window! You have four pieces I consider significant enough to keep at their respective positions, Rutchsman (Catcher), Mullins (Center Field), Santander (Right Field), and Henderson (Third Base), with Cowser ready to supplant Hays in left field if necessary, and Westburg ready to man any of second base, third base, or shortstop.

These are your guys. This is your basis. This is what you rely on. This a perfect storm that can begin the creation of a true powerhouse. You have every tool at your disposal.

However, I'm deeply disturbed by a couple aspects of this plan. First, why haven't you tried to signed Rutschman to an extension? Now is the perfect time to do it. There's not concern about whether he'll succeed or not. He will. Where's the downside with a Rutschman extension?

Secondly, why are you playing passive in free agency? You have the second lowest payroll in baseball, only ahead of the pit of depression and endless famine that is the Oakland Athletics, and you've spent $140M+ in payroll in the past, which means that you're more than capable of spending $170M+ in payroll now. I don't want $170M in payroll in 2023. That would be rash. That being said, just raise it past $100M. Why weren't you aggressive with Carlos Rodon? Why weren't you aggressive with Chris Bassitt? Jose Quintana? Taijuan Walker? Jameson Taillon? Crying cheap isn't getting you any sympathy here.

Am I supposed to believe that you're satisfied with your rotation being a #4, three #5s, and a guy who shouldn't be pitching in a major league rotation in Tyler Wells? What are you really doing with an Adam Frazier signing? Why are you radio silent in the trade market? There's plenty of second base options on the trade market. Kolten Wong was available. Jorge Polanco is likely available. Both are better than Frazier, who got the same deal as Rich Hill, which would've been a significantly better signing than Frazier.

Why weren't you invested in the shortstop market more? Am I really supposed to believe that you were priced out of Dansby Swanson, a 2-3 WAR better option than Jorge Mateo? Hell, why not Jacob deGrom or Justin Verlander? It's aggressive, but you have more than enough payroll space where that doesn't hurt you. Am I supposed to believe that your spending ability has DECREASED since 2018?

To put it bluntly, I love this Orioles team's future. I like the players who're at the major league level. I like their general development, from fringe starters to top prospects to relievers. That being said, I hate how this team is crying cheap, and how they're playing this incredibly passive. In my opinion, this shows that this front office isn't committed to winning in 2023. They're trying to see if this team's good before spending on it. That's the wrong way to go about it. You have your team. You have your system. You know your strengths, you know your weaknesses, and your weakness is clearly lying in offensive impact and the starting rotation. You do not need another average player in Adam Frazier. You need a guy who'll give you a 120 wRC+, or a #3's production in the rotation.

That being said, is the offseason over? No. Can they do more? Of course. Do I expect them to? "I'm not sure" is the unfortunate answer. I think this team has a wonderful foundation, but we'll see whether the front office wants that to blossom in 2023 or not.

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kicksaddictny · 2 years ago

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New Balance Signs Shohei Ohtani

According to New Balance

Two-Time MLB All-Star and 2021 American League MVP, Shohei Ohtani joins the New Balance family as part of a long-term deal. As one of the few two-way players to ever play the game, and only player to ever be named All-MLB First Team as a pitcher and a hitter (DH), Shohei and New Balance will build a relationship that celebrates breaking barriers and inspires the next generation of athletes around the world.

“As I continue my journey in baseball I am excited to join the New Balance family,” says Shohei. “New Balance is a global brand that is known for having incredible product innovation but also for being an authentic brand who allows their athletes to be themselves. I am excited to join with them to change the game.”

As the first athlete in the history of baseball to be named as a starting pitcher and leadoff hitter in the MLB All-Star game, Shohei is no stranger to doing things his way since the very beginning. Shohei was a powerhouse high school athlete and chose to stay in Japan for his first years as a professional, gaining several accolades, including five NPB All-Star selections and was crowned Japan Series Champion in 2016. Shohei signed an MLB contract in 2018, immediately making an impact and earning the American League Rookie of the Year Award. Entering his sixth year in the league, Shohei is often referred to as super-human and someone who is held in high regard for his dominance on the field but also for his gracious demeanor off the field.

“Shohei is a once-in-a-generation athlete who fits with our larger roster of athletes in their approach to their respective sports,'' saysNeil Brooks, Head of Baseball Sports Marketing. “Shohei is never satisfied and is constantly pushing himself and his team to be better while letting his on-field performance speak for itself. We look forward to building the relationship and helping Shohei achieve his dreams and in the process truly change the game as we know it.”

New Balance will work with Shohei on a variety of campaigns across the brand, the first will be a special, limited-edition 574 Cleat, a new take on one of the brand’s classic models. This will represent the first time the iconic 574 model will appear on the field, bringing the culture of the ballpark and the fashion forward style together. The 574 Cleat matches up in pattern and aesthetic to the 574, however the cleat version includes changes to the interior that ensure this cleat is fit for the field and has all the fit, support and performance elements. The 574 Cleat will launch in February at www.newbalance.com with the suggested retail price starting at $120.

Shohei joins a stellar roster of athletes who are leaders in their respective sports such as Kawhi Leonard, Sydney McLaughlin, Coco Gauff, Raheem Sterling, Sadio Mane and more. The common thread throughout the New Balance roster of athletes is their ability push through physical limits and ensure a lasting impact within the world of sports but also in the communities in which they are a part.

#ShoheiOhtani #kicksaddict #NewBalance

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lboogie1906 · 9 days ago

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George Kenneth Griffey Jr. (November 21, 1969) nicknamed “Junior” and “the Kid”, is a former professional baseball outfielder who played 22 years in the MLB. He spent most of his career with the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds, along with a short stint with the Chicago White Sox. A member of the Baseball Hall of Fame and a 13-time All-Star, he is one of the most prolific home run hitters in baseball history; his 630 home runs rank as the seventh-most in MLB history. He was an exceptional defender and won 10 Gold Glove Awards in center field. He is tied for the record of most consecutive games with a home run.

He signed lucrative deals with companies of international prominence like Nike and Nintendo; his popularity reflected well upon MLB and is credited by some with helping restore its image after the 1994 labor dispute. He is one of only 31 players in baseball history to have appeared in major league games in four different calendar decades.

He joined the Mariners’ front office as a special consultant. He was inducted into both the Mariners Hall of Fame and the Reds Hall of Fame. He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, receiving 99.32% of the vote.

He is the son of former MLB player Ken Griffey Sr. and the father of former NFL football player Trey Griffey.

He was born in Donora, Pennsylvania. His family moved to Cincinnati, where his father, Ken Griffey Sr., played for the Cincinnati Reds, he was in the clubhouse during his father’s back-to-back championships in the 1975 and 1976 World Series.

He attended Archbishop Moeller High School, where he was the US high school baseball player of the year in 1987. He hit .478 with 17 home runs in his two seasons of high school baseball. He played football as a wide receiver and received scholarship offers to play college football for such programs as Oklahoma and Michigan.

On October 25, 2021, he joined the Mariners ownership group, becoming the first former player to hold a partnership interest in the Mariners. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

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foolicmazagine · 3 months ago

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Who is the Highest-Paid Player on the Atlanta Braves?

The Atlanta Braves are one of Major League Baseball’s most storied franchises, known for their rich history, loyal fan base, and consistently competitive teams. Over the years, the Braves have fielded some of the biggest stars in baseball, and with stardom often comes big paychecks. As of 2024, the highest-paid player on the Braves roster is first baseman Matt Olson, who signed a massive eight-year, $168 million contract extension in 2022.

In this blog, we will explore Matt Olson’s rise to prominence, the details of his contract, and his overall impact on the Braves, both on and off the field. We’ll also touch on how his deal compares to other contracts in MLB and what it means for the future of the Atlanta Braves.

Matt Olson’s Path to the Braves

Matt Olson was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the first round (47th overall) of the 2012 MLB Draft. A talented first baseman with power-hitting potential and superb defense, Olson quickly made a name for himself in the A’s organization. After spending several years developing in the minors, Olson debuted with the A’s in 2016, where his power and glove immediately impressed fans and coaches alike.

By 2017, Olson emerged as one of the premier power hitters in the game, smashing 24 home runs in just 59 games. His incredible slugging percentage (.651) and defensive prowess made him an invaluable asset to the Athletics. Over the next several seasons, Olson continued to solidify his reputation as a star in the making. He earned his first Gold Glove Award in 2018 and was selected for the MLB All-Star Game in 2021.

However, after the 2021 season, the A’s embarked on a roster overhaul, and Olson, who was approaching free agency, became a valuable trade asset. The Atlanta Braves, fresh off a World Series victory but faced with the potential departure of franchise icon Freddie Freeman, saw an opportunity to acquire Olson and traded for him in March 2022. Shortly after the trade, the Braves signed Olson to an eight-year, $168 million extension, securing him as the team’s long-term solution at first base.

The Contract: Breaking Down Olson’s $168 Million Deal

Matt Olson’s contract with the Braves is one of the largest in the franchise’s history. Here’s a breakdown of the key details:

Total Value: $168 million over eight years

Average Annual Value (AAV): $21 million

Duration: 2022-2029, with a club option for 2030

Signing Bonus: Olson received a $15 million signing bonus as part of the deal

This contract made Olson the highest-paid player on the Braves, surpassing several other stars on the roster, including Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies, both of whom are signed to team-friendly extensions. The deal was a major investment for the Braves, but one that they deemed necessary to secure a long-term replacement for Freddie Freeman, who ultimately signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Olson’s Impact on the Field

As the highest-paid player on the Braves, Matt Olson has lived up to expectations. Known for his powerful bat and elite defense at first base, Olson provides a combination of offensive and defensive production that is rare among first basemen.

Offensive Contributions

Olson is best known for his power-hitting ability. Throughout his career, he has consistently ranked among the league leaders in home runs, RBIs, and slugging percentage. His left-handed swing is tailor-made for Truist Park, the Braves’ home field, where he regularly launches towering home runs into the right-field stands.

In his first season with the Braves (2022), Olson hit 34 home runs and drove in 103 runs, solidifying his place as a key part of the team’s lineup. In 2023, he followed up with an even more impressive campaign, smashing 42 homers and driving in 120 runs, all while maintaining a solid .275 batting average. His presence in the middle of the Braves’ order provides protection for fellow stars like Acuña Jr. and Austin Riley, making the Atlanta Braves one of the most dangerous offensive teams in baseball.

Defensive Excellence

While Olson’s power-hitting gets much of the attention, his defense at first base is equally impressive. He has won multiple Gold Glove Awards, recognizing him as one of the best defensive first basemen in the game. Olson’s ability to scoop errant throws, stretch for outs, and make difficult plays look routine gives the Braves’ infield a level of confidence that is hard to quantify.

His defense not only saves runs but also keeps pitchers out of tough situations by turning potential errors into outs. For a team with championship aspirations like the Braves, having a reliable defender at first base is invaluable.

Olson’s Leadership and Influence

Beyond his on-field contributions, Matt Olson has quickly emerged as a leader in the Braves’ clubhouse. Despite being a newcomer in 2022, Olson’s work ethic and professionalism earned him the respect of his teammates. As the highest-paid player on the team, there are always expectations for leadership, and Olson has embraced that role.

His calm demeanor and steady presence provide a stabilizing force in the Braves’ locker room, especially during the high-pressure moments of a playoff race. Olson has been vocal about his excitement to play for his hometown team (he grew up in the Atlanta area) and his desire to help the Braves win more championships.

How Olson’s Contract Compares to Others in MLB

While Olson’s $168 million deal makes him the highest-paid player on the Braves, it is relatively modest compared to some of the mega-contracts handed out across MLB in recent years. Players like Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, and Fernando Tatis Jr. have all signed deals worth well over $300 million. However, Olson’s contract is still a significant investment for the Braves and reflects their confidence in his ability to anchor the team for years to come.

What makes Olson’s deal particularly valuable for the Braves is the timing. The Braves were able to lock him in at a time when salaries were continuing to escalate across the league, securing a power-hitting first baseman who is also an elite defender without having to break the bank entirely.

Conclusion: Olson’s Future with the Braves

Matt Olson’s arrival in Atlanta marked a new chapter for the Braves, and his performance so far has validated the team’s decision to make him their highest-paid player. With his power, defense, and leadership, Olson is a cornerstone for the Braves as they continue to pursue championships in the years to come.

As of 2024, Olson remains the highest-paid player on the Braves roster, and his long-term contract ensures that he will be a key part of the team’s future. For Braves fans, having a player of Olson’s caliber locked in for the long haul is a reason for optimism, as the team looks to build on its recent success and bring more titles to Atlanta.

#Atlanta Braves #Atlanta Braves players #Atlanta Braves jerseys #Atlanta Braves tickets

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damianemcee · 3 months ago

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The BEST of Award-Winning Episodes! This 2021 gem earned Damian an Emmy nomination for writing and multiple Telly, W3, Viddy, and Communicator Awards! MLB All-Star game, Lucky Weddings, and Sofia the Robot! Hosted by Emmy-nominee Damian Muziani. #hindsighttonight, #comedynews, #snl, #thedailyshow, #lastweektonight, #mlb, #briankemp, #lasvegasweddings, #sofiatherobot

#youtube

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motivateandinspiretoday · 4 months ago

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Vladimir Guerrero Jr Words of Wisdom #subscribe #like #Share #Love #MLB...

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is a professional baseball player from the Dominican Republic, currently playing as a first baseman and designated hitter for the Toronto Blue Jays in Major League Baseball (MLB). Born on March 16, 1999, he is the son of Hall of Fame outfielder Vladimir Guerrero Sr. Known for his impressive hitting skills and power, Guerrero Jr. made his MLB debut in April 2019 and quickly established himself as one of the league's most exciting young talents. He has been selected to multiple All-Star Games and was the MVP of the 2021 All-Star Game. His exceptional offensive abilities make him a key player for the Blue Jays.

#youtube #Tumblr #Blue Jays #Toronto #Canada #Faith #Subscribe #like #share #follow #grow

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scoopflash · 4 months ago

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Jack Suwinski: The Emerging Baseball Sensation

In the world of professional baseball, there are those players who come and go, leaving little impact on the sport. Then there are those who, despite their youth and inexperience, manage to make a name for themselves by demonstrating exceptional talent and potential. One such player is Jack Suwinski, the young slugger who has been turning heads and causing a stir in the baseball community.

Born on May 17, 1998, in Elk Grove, California, Jack Suwinski is an American professional baseball player who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Pirates as an outfielder and first baseman. While he may still be a relative newcomer to the Major Leagues, Suwinski has already shown that he has what it takes to become a star in the sport.

The Early Days: From High School to College

Suwinski's love for baseball began at a young age. He attended Elk Grove High School, where he played both baseball and football. It was during his high school years that Suwinski began to make a name for himself as a talented athlete. He was named All-League and All-City his junior and senior years, and he even led his team to a section championship in his final year.

After high school, Suwinski went on to play college baseball at the University of San Diego, where he continued to hone his skills and develop as a player. In his sophomore year, he hit .316 with 10 home runs and 41 RBIs, earning him a spot on the All-West Coast Conference team.

Drafted by the Padres: A Dream Come True

Suwinski's hard work and dedication paid off when he was drafted by the San Diego Padres in the 14th round of the 2016 MLB draft. This was a dream come true for the young player, who had always dreamed of playing professional baseball.

Suwinski began his professional career in the Padres' minor league system, playing for the Tri-City Dust Devils, Fort Wayne TinCaps, and Lake Elsinore Storm. He steadily climbed the ranks, eventually making it to the Padres' Double-A affiliate, the San Antonio Missions.

The Trade to Pittsburgh: A New Chapter

In 2021, Suwinski's career took a surprising turn when he was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates as part of a deal that sent former Pirates' outfielder, Bryan Reynolds, to the Padres. This move proved to be a blessing in disguise for Suwinski, as he was given the opportunity to play at the Major League level with the Pirates.

Suwinski made his MLB debut on April 7, 2022, and quickly became a fan favorite due to his impressive performance on the field. He finished his rookie season with a .205 batting average, 10 home runs, and 31 RBIs in 95 games.

A Natural at the Plate: Suwinski's Unique Approach

One of the things that sets Suwinski apart from other players is his natural ability at the plate. He has a unique approach to hitting, which involves a combination of patience, discipline, and power.

Suwinski's patience at the plate allows him to wait for the perfect pitch, which he can then drive into the outfield for a hit or a home run. His discipline is evident in his ability to work the count and draw walks, which is crucial for a team's success. And his power comes from his strong, athletic build and his ability to generate bat speed and leverage.

A Team Player: Suwinski's Impact on the Pirates

Despite his young age and relative inexperience, Suwinski has quickly become a key player for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He has not only provided much-needed power to the team's lineup but has also displayed a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn from his teammates and coaches.

Suwinski's team-first mentality has made him a valuable asset to the Pirates, both on and off the field. He has become a fan favorite in Pittsburgh and has helped to energize the team and its supporters.

A Bright Future: What's Next for Jack Suwinski?

As Suwinski continues to develop and mature as a player, the sky is the limit for his career. He has already shown that he has the talent and potential to become a star in the sport, and there is no doubt that he will continue to make a significant impact on the game of baseball.

In the coming years, Suwinski will no doubt face new challenges and opportunities, but with his natural ability, strong work ethic, and team-first mentality, there is no doubt that he will continue to rise to the occasion and achieve great things in the world of professional baseball.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jack Suwinski is a young baseball player with a bright future ahead of him. Despite his youth and inexperience, he has already demonstrated exceptional talent and potential, both on and off the field. With his unique approach to hitting, strong work ethic, and team-first mentality, Suwinski is poised to become a star in the sport of baseball. As he continues to develop and mature as a player, there is no doubt that he will continue to make a significant impact on the game and inspire a new generation of baseball fans.

#Jack Suwinski #Emerging Star

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dankusner · 5 months ago

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Why don’t Rangers have a Pride Night?

They are only MLB team without such an event

All but one of the 30 of the Major League Baseball teams are hosting Pride Nights this season, most during Pride Month, which celebrates and supports LGBTQ culture and rights.

The Texas Rangers are the only team without a Pride Night.

They say they are committed to making everyone feel welcome at all games.

Have the Rangers ever hosted a Pride Night?

No.

In September 2003, two years after the Chicago Cubs hosted what is considered the first Pride game, the Rangers invited local LGBTQ groups to a game as part of a fundraising event, similar to what they do for all kinds of groups throughout each season.

There were some Rangers fans who expressed opposition through a website beforehand and, while not widespread, there were some protests outside the stadium before that game.

What do the Rangers say about not hosting a Pride Night?

The team has been consistent with its response when asked: “Our longstanding commitment remains the same: To make everyone feel welcome and included in Rangers baseball — in our ballpark, at every game, and in all we do — for both our fans and our employees. We deliver on that promise across our many programs to have a positive impact across our entire community.”

What role could Texas politics play in the decision?

Texas has been dominated by Republicans for a generation, and state lawmakers and Gov. Greg Abbott last year joined the push from many conservative states to limit LGBTQ rights.

The Legislature passed new laws expanding definitions of prohibited sexual content in public performances and in school books, and activists fear those measures will be used to target drag shows and ban LGBTQ literature from libraries and classrooms.

Texas became the most populous of what are now at least 25 states with laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors.

And Texas public universities have been directed to dismantle diversity, equity and inclusion offices and training.

Abbott also signed into law the “Save Women’s Sports Act” that bars transgender college athletes from competing on teams that match their gender identity.

Texas already had a similar law for high schools.

Amid that conservative political landscape, there is less outside resistance in their home market to the Rangers not having a Pride Night.

Rangers majority owner Ray Davis has donated at least $560,000 to Texans for Greg Abbott since 2013, which classifies the former energy executive as a “mid-tier” donor, according to state campaign finance records.

Why do the Houston Astros have a Pride Night, but the Rangers do not?

The Astros hosted their first Pride Night in 2021. Houston, the state’s most-populated city with about 2.3 million people in a metro area of about 6.7 million, is one of the biggest strongholds for Democrats in Texas.

Another is Dallas, not far from the Rangers’ home ballpark.

A majority of the elected officials in Houston and Dallas are Democrats.

The Rangers’ ballpark in Arlington is just off Interstate 30, halfway between downtown Fort Worth and downtown Dallas.

What do the Rangers do to support the LGBTQ community?

The Rangers were a sponsor of the NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series in 2022 when the event took place in Dallas and Waxahachie.

The club participated in the opening ceremonies in Dallas and worked with the local organizers and NAGAAA officials on several initiatives for the event.

The team is working on initiatives with local groups, including the Pegasus Slow-Pitch Softball Association, which promotes quality amateur softball at all levels of play with a special emphasis on the participation of members of the LGBTQ community.

Pegasus has been invited by MLB and the Rangers to participate in a training program for inclusion on July 14 as part MLB’s All-Star Legacy Program initiatives. The Rangers are hosting the All-Star Game on July 16.

The Rangers have worked in the past with the Resource Center, which provides programs and assistance to LGBTQ communities and anyone impacted in North Dallas by HIV/AIDS through advocacy, health and education. Team employees volunteer and support Resource Center events.

An Inclusion and Community Impact Council was developed by the team to foster conversations, ideas and programs to support employees internally and the community externally.

Rangers employees participate in anti-harassment programs, and education programs offered by MLB.

The Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation focuses on anti-bullying messaging at the club's youth academy, and the staff works with outside agencies to ensure a welcoming environment for all athletes.

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jcmarchi · 8 months ago

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MLB The Show 24 Review - Breaking Barriers - Game Informer

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/mlb-the-show-24-review-breaking-barriers-game-informer/

MLB The Show 24 Review - Breaking Barriers - Game Informer

MLB The Show’s commitment to nuance, iteration, and diversity is what sets it apart. Since the long-running series arrived on Xbox in 2021, the baseball sim has recontextualized sports games – emphasizing the purpose of communities while fitting in new features like Pinpoint Pitching, custom stadiums, and online ranked co-op. The Show 23 pushed the bar further with Storylines: The Negro Leagues, an interactive museum that detailed eight stars of baseball’s segregated past. This year’s iteration mirrors it with new Storyline episodes, a 60-minute tribute to Yankee legend Derek Jeter, and an original RTTS narrative where “Women Pave Their Way.” While it isn’t a hyper-creative leap forward, MLB The Show 24 finds a new swing by tethering style and strategy to baseball’s fundamentals.

MLB The Show 24’s gameplay is almost identical to The Show 23 – complete with 23’s quirks (Break Outlier, Pick Off Artist), throwing interfaces, swing feedback, and updates to attributes that associate the clutch attribute with RISP. There are 400 new animations in 24, plus logic improvements, new base sizes, and ��Impact Plays” that add major league realism to defensive assists. However, it lacks an innovative change to a hitting and pitching engine we’ve seen in past entries. The new face and hair details are a sight to behold when Bryce Harper and Fernando Tatis Jr. are bat-flipping home runs next to cherry-kissed skies, but the immersion breaks when a star player drops a pop fly, misses routine grounders at third, or “soft tosses” a double play ball in extra innings. The Show 24’s updated lighting system provides a sharper, detailed look at the diamonds across Major League Baseball, and it takes advantage of a boost in exit velocities. This shift makes it easier to hit the ball in Petco Park, Chase Field, and Kauffman Stadium, all of which were problematic in past entries.

As expected, Storylines: Season Two is a delight. The docuseries, narrated by Negro Leagues Baseball Museum President Bob Kendrick, stands by the NLBM’s mission to “educate, enlighten, and inspire,” and it continues to combine archival footage, gameplay-driven scenarios, and personal anecdotes to illustrate why baseball is the most romanticized sport on Earth. The new season introduces 10 new Negro League heroes, with four episodes available at launch – reducing the initial runtime to institute a more immersive environment for Kendrick’s narrations.

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And it doesn’t miss. Season Two embraces the Negro Leagues’ revered architects, highlighting how the introduction of “night baseball” in the 1930s led to the discovery of a phenom known as Josh “The Black Babe Ruth” Gibson. It recalls how Walter “Buck” Leonard was a thinking man’s player and a fixture for Pittsburgh’s Homestead Greys; how Henry “The Hammer” Aaron started his career with the 1952 Indianapolis Clowns as a “skinny, cross-handed hitting” shortstop; and how Toni “The Trailblazer” Stone learned how to play with the fellas before becoming the first of three pioneering women to play professional ball. All four narratives are accompanied by iconic moments – such as recreating Stone’s single against the immortal Satchel Paige and hitting a home run with Aaron and the Milwaukee Braves in Sportsman’s Park – and it never once feels overly dramatized. Instead, every photograph, audio excerpt, and subtle ode to Pennsylvania’s Greenlee Field and Newark’s Ruppert Stadium is an organic lesson in American history. Bold and full of soul thanks to scores by Stevie Wonder, Marlena Shaw, and A Tribe Called Quest.

That attention to detail is also embedded in Storylines: Derek Jeter – a ‘90s-based spinoff mode that pays homage to “The Captain” and his New York Yankees-inflected path to baseball nobility. Much like Season Two, it’s a collection of career-defining, playable moments from 1995 to 2000, including his first career hit versus the Mariners in Seattle’s Kingdome, his famous “jump throw” from Game 1 of the 1998 American League Championship, and how the Yankees’ initial All-Star Game MVP drove the club past the New York Mets to seal a three-peat in the 2000 World Series. It’s not the most compelling narrative, particularly if you’re a fan of the Yankees’ rivals, but thanks to San Diego Studio’s Live Content team, it does offer a surplus of in-game rewards, including Atlanta’s 2000 All-Star Game uniforms and Subway Series player items for Diamond Dynasty.

There’s also an interactive subway map, complete with graffiti, billboards, and “New York-isms”, that provides a snapshot of the city and a fan base with high expectations, but it’s difficult not to imagine Storylines being a distinctive voice for pockets of culture that are less commercialized.

Other modes like Franchise and March To October have been largely untouched – pairing The Show 23’s amateur scouting system, postseason formats, and “Ohtani Rule” with custom game conditions and Prospect Promotion Incentive (PPI). Road To The Show is directly tied to the Draft Combine, a four-day event where hitting, pitching, and fielding is graded to provide an accurate projection for attributes, comparisons, and club interest for the MLB Draft. It provides explanations for multiple ballplayer archetypes and their position’s focus, but the core narrative lacks creative ingenuity that goes beyond dated minigames and dialogue systems. Especially when it reaffirms what the community already knows: RTTS is for ‘80s mullets and XP bugs.

“Women Pave Their Way” is a fresh addition that alters the Road To The Show formula in new and exciting ways because it presents an atypical narrative about breaking barriers in baseball. It’s a unique pivot, led by narrative designer Mollie Braley and USA Baseball’s Kelsie Whitmore, and it’s one that promotes awareness of the women who play baseball and that other aspiring athletes are capable of competing at multiple levels. It sounds like “marketing jazz,” but Braley and SDS use pre-recorded video content with MLB Network’s Robert Flores, Lauren Shehadi, Dan O’Dowd, Melanie Newman, and Carlos Peña to stress the physical and mental adversity that is attached to carving a path in minor-league systems. They don’t sugarcoat anxieties or rewrite old baseball traditions; their intention is to inspire new and returning players to chase their lifelong dreams, and it’s a vision that gets its own full circle moment when MLB.com’s Sarah Langs starts detailing RPMs and spin rates.

With the exit velocities, Diamond Dynasty is off to its best start in years. The Show 24 alters 23’s Ultimate Team concepts to reintroduce “Seasons 2.0” – an expansion on “Sets & Seasons” that ditches 99 OVR player items on Day One for a traditional power creep, multiple Wild Card slots, monthly Team Affinity drops, and reward paths that differentiate Ranked, Events, and Conquest. There are Cornerstone Captains that implement seasonal archetypes for team building and new Team Captains that add comparable boosts to hitting and pitching attributes for all 30 MLB clubs – solely to create hypotheticals like Yankees vs Dodgers, Cubs vs Phillies, and Rays vs Padres. There are still microtransactions, sure, but The Show’s monetization policies are less iniquitous than Madden NFL, FIFA, and NBA 2K’s practices because they rarely “gatekeep” limited drops when there are hundreds of diamond player items “sitting at home.” Diamond Dynasty is still in need of a visual overhaul, a Custom Practice mode, a new uniform creation system, and more unique customization options that tap into collaborations with Sanford Greene, King Saladeen, and Takashi Okazaki, but listening to a community’s input is a start – especially if it continues.

MLB The Show 24 doesn’t hit it out of the park at every at-bat, but it doesn’t have to. The series is in the middle of an experimental phase that’s trying to mitigate its perpetual “online vs. offline” war. Despite a clear lack of innovation in mechanics, it has still found a way to impress, inspire, and engage with a younger generation that shares an interest in history. The Show’s art team is second to none, its OST shuffles Eladio Carrion, IDLES, Flowdan, and Brittany Howard with the grace of a 2 Chainz verse, and its “Grind 99” mantra has been edited to be a modern ideology – “play however and whenever.” It’s why Diamond Dynasty is the best take on Ultimate Team in terms of approachability and competition and why The Show 24 hopes to reignite annual titles through personalization. As the great Toni Stone once implied: “Get you one ‘cause I got mine.”

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weightloss15days · 8 months ago

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Shohei Ohtani says he's sad and shocked over Mizuhara's gambling and theft allegations

Baseball sensation Shohei Ohtani revealed on Monday that he was unaware until recently of the alleged involvement of his now-dismissed interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, in gambling and theft activities.

In his initial public address regarding the controversy shadowing the start of MLB's 2024 season, the Japanese-born Ohtani, speaking through an interpreter, expressed his dismay and shock upon learning about the accusations. The Dodgers terminated Mizuhara's employment last week after Ohtani's representatives disclosed that they had uncovered extensive theft targeting Ohtani, prompting them to escalate the matter to the authorities.

During a press briefing broadcasted live on the MLB Network from the team's interview room, Ohtani clarified that he has never engaged in sports betting. He further asserted, "Ippei has been embezzling funds from my account and spreading falsehoods." Ohtani revealed that Mizuhara was facing financial troubles but misrepresented the situation to Ohtani's representatives and the public, suggesting that Ohtani was settling debts on behalf of a friend.

Expressing his emotions, Ohtani stated, "To sum up my current state, I am utterly stunned. It's challenging to articulate my feelings at this juncture." He mentioned that his legal advisors recommended involving the authorities in the theft and fraud investigation, emphasizing his full cooperation with ongoing inquiries.

Ohtani conveyed his intention to allow his legal team to handle the matter while he focuses on his game, remarking, "I am eager to concentrate on the season, and I appreciate the opportunity to address this issue."

Ohtani declined to entertain questions from the media following his statement, which lasted approximately 10 minutes.

Later in the day, the Dodgers hosted an exhibition game against the Los Angeles Angels. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed support for Ohtani's decision to address the issue publicly, stating, "I think it's the right thing to do. I'm pleased he's speaking out, providing insight into what he knows and sharing his thoughts on the situation."

Ohtani, a two-time American League MVP, signed a lucrative $700 million contract with the Dodgers during the off-season.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing. Mizuhara admitted to ESPN investigative reporter Tisha Thompson that he incurred substantial gambling debts, allegedly with an illegal gambling ring overseen by Mathew Bowyer in Orange County, Calif. Neither Mizuhara nor Bowyer has been charged with any offense.

The Los Angeles field office of the IRS's criminal investigation division confirmed its involvement in the investigation concerning Mathew Bowyer and Ippei Mizuhara.

Meanwhile, MLB stated that it is investigating the allegations involving Shohei Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhara. Major League Baseball imposes severe penalties on individuals involved in betting on baseball, a violation regulated under Rule 21 on misconduct.

Key questions remain unanswered regarding Mizuhara's conflicting statements about the coverage of his gambling losses. Thompson reported that Mizuhara initially claimed that Ohtani had agreed to settle his gambling debts and even facilitated wire transfers, but subsequently retracted his statements, prompting Ohtani's legal team to assert that their client was a victim of extensive theft.

Ippei Mizuhara, aged 39, hails from Japan and reportedly met Ohtani during the latter's tenure with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in the Nippon Professional Baseball league. Mizuhara served as a translator for the team and later accompanied Ohtani to the MLB as his interpreter. Their close relationship has been evident throughout Ohtani's career, including Mizuhara's participation in the 2021 All-Star Game's home run derby as Ohtani's catcher.

When the Dodgers unveiled Ohtani as their newest acquisition three months ago, Mizuhara stood alongside him onstage. Play-by-play announcer Joe Davis introduced him as "Shohei's interpreter — primarily Shohei's best friend, close companion — Ippei Mizuhara."

#top news #viral #news

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news4usonline · 8 months ago

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The Dodgers' secret sauce

ARIZONA - The Dodgers enter the season with more superstar talent than any team in Major League Baseball (MLB). But what makes this group even more special is team depth and versatility. Manager Dave Roberts and President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman have always valued players who can play multiple positions. Chris Taylor has made a name for himself in Los Angeles doing just that.

Smashing: Kiki Hernandez goes yard on one of his two home runs against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Opening Day, March 28, 2019. The Dodgers his eight home runs in the team's opening day victory at Dodger Stadium. Photo by Dennis J. Freeman/News4usonline The two latest additions to the roster during Spring Training involved enhancing flexibility, something the front office has loved during their recent stretch of NL West dominance. With the re-signing of Kiké Hernández and the addition of Andre Lipcius, Los Angeles now once again leads the league in super-utility players. “I think they can move everywhere,” said Dave Roberts. Taylor made the All-Star team in 2021, moving all over the infield and outfield. Hernández can play anywhere, having seen time at every position on the diamond, excluding catcher. Yes, he has even pitched before. Lipcius will likely start the season in the minors but will be called upon in the case of injury. Last year, he saw time at first, second, and third base and even spent some time in left field. “I think adding Andre is just another piece of depth, where in a long season, things can happen. So, another guy that can play anywhere on the dirt and conduct an at-bat has sort of been one of our secret sauces on the position player side,” said Roberts. Lipcius got his first crack at big-league action last year with the Detroit Tigers and had a .286 batting average in 13 games. Surprisingly, he was DFAed midway through camp before being scooped up by the Dodgers. “I certainly know bringing Kiké back was a priority, and what CT has done for us over the last five years has been huge, so we expect Andre to fit that same mold,” said Roberts. For Hernández, it is another chance to cement himself further as one of the all-time fan favorites in Dodger Blue. He won a World Series with the team in 2020 and is often viewed as the guy who raises team morale in the dugout and locker room while also coming up with clutch hits in monumental situations.

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts was selected as the National League Player of the Month for the month of August. Photo by Melinda Meijer/News4usonline His game-tying home run in game seven of the 2020 NLCS will go down as one of the biggest swings in Dodgers history, and his three-home run performance to send the Dodgers to the World Series in 2017 is just another example of how he always comes through in the biggest moments. “I feel like I am one of those players that plays better on winning teams and when a team is winning because of what I can bring to the table. In the end, it came down to Dodgers or Yankees,” said Hernández. “They were able to guarantee me to at least start against left-handed pitchers to start the year, and then from there on, anything can happen.” When Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, or Freddie Freeman need a day off this season, the lineup will not suffer. Another player will fill in with ease. Most teams would see a significant drop-off, but it is just business as usual for the Dodgers. It would not be surprising for one of the utility guys in Los Angeles to be the star on any given night, as it is something they have done time and time again. The rich keep getting richer, and at this point, it really is not even fair. Top Image Caption: LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 06: Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Chris Taylor (3) celebrates as he rounds the bases after hittting a walk-off two run home run in the 9th inning of the MLB National League Wild Card game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Los Angeles Dodgers on October 6, 2021 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire) Read the full article

#Dodgers

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realtorjamier · 11 months ago

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My Favorite Open-Air Activities in the DMV!

The weather is warming and you’re ready to revel in the DMV’s great outdoors. From the athletic fields to strawberry fields, here are some great ways to explore nature – all within a short drive.

The sporting life

Baseball

Got “Natitude?” Head to a Washington Nationals game! How much more American can you get than baseball, beer, and big league cheer? Check out this site online for MLB news, calendar and ticketing information:

Soccer

D.C. United, the “Black-and-Red,” soccer season runs through October. Wear your team colors at Audi Field in D.C.

Washington Spirit, the women’s soccer team, also comes to life at Audi Field. Let’s hope 2022 is a repeat of their 2021 first NWSL championship.

Polo

Whether you just want to watch or learn to play, Virginia is the perfect place to experience the fascinating teamwork of horse and rider. Twilight Polo season in The Plains (30 to 60 minutes from D.C.) runs from May to September. Each evening typically includes three matches, picnicking, wine, food trucks, and games for kids. Admission tickets are available online for $25 per vehicle (5 people), or you can pay $30 cash per vehicle at the gate. https://twilightpolo.com

For more equestrian entertainment, visit nearby Middleburg – known as the Nation’s Hunt and Horse Capital: https://visitmiddleburgva.com/middleburg-equestrian-events/

Farmers Markets

Shop local. Shop fresh. Farmers markets abound throughout D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

National Farmers Market Directory:

Pick-your-own

If you want to feel even closer to nature, connect with the earth while supporting your local farmers by picking your own produce.

Vineyards

Virginia is the birthplace of American wine. Not only will you taste award-winning varietals, but you’ll also drink in beautiful views. Many offer great food pairings. Virginia is home to over 300 wineries and more than a dozen wine trails. The best way to enjoy the day? Hire a driver.

Breweries

If you’re more of a beer sommelier, there are plenty of microbreweries to explore. Many have outside seating.

Hiking

You can hike and bike the banks of the Potomac River on the C & O Canal Towpath from Georgetown to Cumberland, Md. for a total of 184.5 miles!

C & O Canal Towpath

Founded in 1890 by the U.S. Congress, Rock Creek Park is 1,700 acres of hardwood trees, asphalt trails, a brook, and rocky outcrops. What else? A planetarium, a 19th century gristmill, equestrian trails, a tennis center, and a golf course!

Rock Creek Park

Great Falls National Park is a beautiful 800-acre oasis that is only 15 miles from D.C. You can go hiking, bicycling, bird watching, climbing, fishing, horseback riding, and more.

Great Falls National Park

Once called Mason’s Island, now named Roosevelt Island, the landscape of this once-overgrown farmland was transformed by architects in the 1930s into a living memorial to Theodore Roosevelt. You can join a park ranger to explore the miles of trails and swamps while honoring the legacy of the outdoorsman and conservationist.

Roosevelt Island

For a map of other hiking trails in the DMV – and reviews from other hikers – visit:

Camping

Maybe you like to rough it, or maybe you’re more of a glamper. Either way, getting back to nature when you live in the Metro area is not as out of reach as you might think.

Greenbelt Park, Md. is an urban oasis inside the beltway.

Shenandoah National Park in Virginia has more than 500 miles of trails and offers several options for sleeping under the stars.

Bull Run in Centreville, Va. offers 1,500 acres of natural space with lots of activities. Choose to camp or stay in a cottage.

Greenbrier State Park in Boonsboro, Md. offers camping, swimming, fishing, boating, hiking.

Water Parks

Have kids? Need hot weather entertainment? Waterparks are a sure-fire way to beat the heat and wear out the kids! Here’s a list of H2O fun in the DMV. (Check websites for opening days.)

Atlantis Waterpark in Centreville, Va.

Franklin Park Pool in Purcellville, Va.

Great Waves Waterpark in Alexandria, Va.

Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags America in Upper Marlboro, Md.

Ida Lee Waterpark in Leesburg, Va.

Ocean Dunes Waterpark in Arlington, Va.

Pirate’s Cove Waterpark in Lorton, Va.

Signal Bay Waterpark in Manassas Park, Va.

SplashDown Waterpark in Manassas, Va.

Volcano Island Waterpark in Sterling, Va.

Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole in Reston, Va.

Waterpark at Bohrer Park in Gaithersburg, Md.

Waterworks Waterpark in Dale City, Va.

#jamierichards #realtorjamier #realestate #realestateagent #realestatetips #open air activities #dmvactivites #dmvfun #openairactivitiesindmv #activitiesindmv

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