Angelos: "It's been a long time coming and thankfully I believe it's here"

Now that the Orioles have strung together three consecutive winning seasons and won their first division title in 17 years, they're determined to bring the city it's first championship since 1983. Owner Peter Angelos likes the direction that the club is headed and believes that it can reach its goal. The Orioles signed shortstop J.J. Hardy to a three-year extension during the playoffs and seem determined to get a deal done with right fielder Nick Markakis. Nelson Cruz won't receive a four- or five-year deal in Baltimore, but efforts will be made to keep him. Same with left-hander Andrew Miller, who may become the most coveted free agent on the market this winter. Meanwhile, Angelos continues to place his trust in manager Buck Showalter and executive vice president Dan Duquette, and he continues to be rewarded for it. "We had a great season," Angelos said. "There has been great progress since Buck and Dan took on their respective positions. Obviously, I'm very pleased with these events, as are fans in general. I think it bodes well for the future. It's been a long time coming and thankfully I believe it's here." Showalter and Duquette signed extensions in January 2013 that keep them here through the 2018 season. "The performance of Buck and Dan is exceptional," Angelos said, "and you have to recognize them as two of the best in the professions that they follow."