Adam Jones featured in broadcast and lineup
MASN is profiling new centerfielder Adam Jones throughout game 1 of today's doubleheader in Texas. It's a good chance for fans to learn more about the young talent off the field.
Plus, seeing his baby pictures will be hilarious. Jones was very proud of the pictures his mom sent from San Diego for the telecast---especially the one of his older brother holding him as a baby.
Fans will get a chance to see Jones in a different role on the field in game 1 today. He is batting lead off as Brian Roberts gets the game off. In case you haven't noticed, the kid has jets, he can run. However, Manager Dave Trembley said he wants to see Jones become a better base stealer and not just a good base runner which he already is.
One takes pure talent, the other takes brains. First base Coach John "T-Bone" Shelby is working with Jones to think more on the base paths. That is usually a skill every good runner needs to fine tune when they are just 22-years-old.
Scott Moore will get the start at second base in place of Roberts tonight. It will be interesting to see how Moore handles it. He is not a natural middle infielder but has worked extensively at it during Spring Training.
Third base coach Juan Samuel has helped Moore with his pivot necessary to make a good throw to first from that awkward angle. Moore is a good athlete, I'm certain he'll adjust.
As for Moore's confidence at the plate with his homer on Tuesday, that stems from a sense of security. Although he is a utility player right now, Trembley assured Moore he's on the team. He told Moore, "this isn't a tryout." That really helps a player in Moore's position avoid feeling as if every at bat is do or die. They relax and produce.
Trembley also said today that Moore will be an everyday player in this league and the Orioles are trying to groom him to be just that. Trembley said it might not happen this year because of the veterans the O's have at Moore's position---the corners. Kevin Millar and Melvin Mora, however are both 36, so Moore's services could be needed in the future.
On a funny note. There has been a black cat roaming around Texas Rangers Ballpark near the MASN TV truck. I'm convinced the Rangers put him there. What a compliment---the O's are playing so well the opposition has turned to voodoo.
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