The little we've learned in recent days

Exactly one week has passed since Orioles pitchers and catchers were scheduled to report to the Ed Smith Stadium complex in Sarasota.

Devising a new collective bargaining agreement also is complex, but the sides met yesterday in Jupiter - they caucused for about three hours separately before reconvening late in the afternoon - and Major League Baseball reportedly made modifications on the bonus pool and draft lottery, but there were no discussions about the luxury tax. They'll try again this afternoon.

An agreement wasn't expected yesterday. The hope was that groundwork could be laid that enhanced the chances of a new CBA by Feb. 28. Sort of like how the general managers meetings lead to deals at the Winter Meetings, except much quicker.

The Orioles haven't done much with their roster, the restrictions during a lockout limiting the possibilities. There have been discussions behind the scenes, as executive vice president/general manager Mike Elias indicated during Friday's media scrum - it starts with a few beat writers off to the side and quickly loses its intimacy - but the only non-international signing since December is infielder Shed Long Jr.

The Long transaction still doesn't appear on the team's site or ESPN.com, but it's found on CBSsports.com - which neglects the signing of pitcher Matt Vogel on Dec. 14. Bringing us back to one of my pet peeves, the inconsistency in tracking these moves.

But I digress ...

Elias confirmed that Long is joining the organization, but couldn't offer much more when asked about his shopping list or expectations for the market after the lockout is lifted. He's covered some of this territory before, but prefers to wait until there's more clarity with the CBA and the team's plans for spring training.

Long may not be able physically to compete for a job in camp after undergoing another surgery on his leg in October. The Orioles aren't done with their infield, catching or rotation, and may want a veteran reliever. They've done their homework leading into the Rule 5 draft, whenever it happens.

If it happens.

I'm going with when.

Elias said on Friday that he's still putting together "an infield competition." The only set position is first base.

Rougned Odor is the favorite at second base, but he must hold onto the job. Ramón Urías, Kelvin Gutiérrez, Jorge Mateo, Jahmai Jones and Richie Martin are options for various spots.

The Orioles are getting closer to unveiling the roster for minor league camp, with pitchers and catchers reporting on Monday. Until then, I'll keep assuming that non-roster prospects ticketed for the Ed Smith Stadium complex will join the group at Twin Lakes Park.

I'll also keep assuming that minor league camp will be held at Twin Lakes Park as planned a month ago.

I can confirm that the Orioles didn't change their minds and return the left field fence to its original place. There's heavy construction going on, which could be seen Friday as the media was directed onto Eutaw Street and looped around to the room where the news conference was held.

I can confirm that my ears perked up when chairman and CEO John Angelos, discussing how the Orioles want to keep pursuing musical artists for concerts at the ballpark, said, "Let's go get Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters, let's get them all to come to Baltimore."

Now we're talking.

I didn't stay for The Avett Brothers last year. Didn't know them and wanted to get home after a long delay. I would have sprinted down Interstate 95. But I heard they were really good.

I didn't attend the Billy Joel concert in 2019. I like many of his songs, especially "The Downeaster 'Alexa'". Some great ballads, too. I'm showing my age in a couple of ways - liking Billy Joel and not wanting to deal with a crowd.

If Pearl Jam comes to Camden Yards, I'll sprint there from my house and crowd surf. Maybe shirtless.

We had tickets to the 2018 concert at Wrigley Field, but sold them after receiving my father's cancer diagnosis earlier in the month. We were devastated and couldn't imagine trying to have fun. I'm owed a show. He'd want me there.

Beyond the music musings, Angelos' Zoom call also stood out for the optimism that the Orioles and Maryland Stadium Authority will "extend and renew" their partnership. That's been the intent all along, but fans need to hear it.

Need to stop worrying about the Orioles leaving town. Need to block out the ridiculous rumors and false reports. There's too much happening with the ballpark and too many plans for the future to believe for one second that the team will relocate.

"I'm bullish on Baltimore," Angelos said, and he proved it again with the rest of his comments.

The comparison to the club's relationship with the city of Sarasota also was significant. A major part of ownership's vision.

Let's see what today brings.