A look at the biggest Orioles development of the past few weeks

The best news for the Orioles and their fans over the last few weeks didn't take place on the field. But it will have a big impact on the field.

It was the day before Game 1 of the American League Championship Series when the O's made a surprise announcement: They signed shortstop J.J. Hardy to a new three-year deal through 2017 with an option for the 2018 season.

Just days away from being a free agent, and possibly having a team like the New York Yankees throw big money his way, Hardy decided to stay an Oriole.

The news spoke volumes about how Hardy feels about the club's present and future.

At his press conference, Hardy said, "This is where I wanted to be ... I believe that Dan (Duquette), Buck (Showalter), the Angelos family - they're all going to continue doing everything they possibly can to make this organization better. And bottom line, it comes down to winning, and I think we've got a good thing here."

Since he joined the Orioles in 2011, Hardy has won two Gold Gloves and leads all major league shortstops with 86 home runs. He was voted the American League's starting shortstop in the 2013 All-Star Game and won the Silver Slugger Award that year.

Since 2011, Hardy ranks second among all shortstops with 276 RBIs and is in the top 10 in games (587), at-bats (2,320), runs (283), hits (600), doubles (112), and OPS (.720).

Hardy's new deal was met with excitement that day throughout the team.

"Besides playing a prime position, what he brings to the club is not just baseball," outfielder Nick Markakis said. "All the things J.J. brings are things, you want your players to have. He's awesome, he's quiet. He goes about his business. He sets good examples and he helps out any way he can."

What does Hardy bring to the Orioles?

"Winning. He brings a winning attitude, he's a great personality in our clubhouse and he's a winner on that field," outfielder Adam Jones said.

Hardy's new deal should also send a message to the fans. These are no longer days when an Orioles free agent or a free agent target - Mike Mussina and Mark Teixeira come to mind - are near certain to wind up a Yankee.

The Orioles are on top of the AL East and Hardy feels they can stay there. His signing was a big step in that direction.

Hardy's the glue that holds the infield defense together and a team leader. Hardy doesn't say much, but when he does his teammates listen.

With Manny Machado's second knee operation, signing Hardy became a top priority. The Orioles got it done and got their offseason off to a great beginning - even before it actually started.

Leave for the Yankees to replace Derek Jeter?

Not only did Hardy not do that, he didn't even listen to a New York offer.

Yep, these are different and better days for the Orioles and their fans.