The Baltimore Orioles finished in the 60 win range for a fourth consecutive season last year, posting an AL East worst 66-96 record. Despite another poor run, the Orioles were bolstered by the late July arrival of Manager Buck Showalter. Baltimore responded to his no nonsense leadership and played better than any of its division rivals down the stretch. Baseball oddsmakers still see a wide talent gap between the O's and the rest of the AL East, though, and, as a result, have them listed at +2000 moneyline odds to win the division in their latest 2011 MLB Predictions.
Baltimore went 35-26 under Showalter's watch last season, which, combined with a few off-season acquisitions (i.e. Vladimir 
Guerrero, Mark Reynolds, Derrick Lee), has Orioles fans excited about the possibility of crawling out of the American League East cellar.
The O's finished 27th in the league in runs scored in 2010 with 613, that should change with the arrival of the bats mentioned above. Guerrero may not equal last year's numbers (29 home runs, 115 RBI), but he will not have to make an impact. His presence in the lineup, as well as Reynolds and Lee's, gives the team a significant power upgrade.
Those three combined for 80 homers last year, even with a down year from Lee (19), giving them almost three quarters of Baltimore's team total (133). In addition to the long ball boost, the new Orioles should also provide protection for home grown talents Nick Markakis, Adam Jones, and Matt Wieters.
It is safe to assume that the O's will no longer be the odd man out in baseball's most talented offensive division.
Baltimore's pitching staff is also inline for some improvement after posting a 4.67 ERA last season (28th worst in the majors). The team has promising young arms in Brian Matusz, Jake Arrieta, and Brad Bergesen as well as a capable veteren hurler in Jeremy Guthrie. If the former three continue to develop, which they all showed positive signs in 2010, the Orioles could piece together their first respectable season in many a year.
Toronto finished fourth in the East last year, but its 85 wins shocked just about everyone. Baltimore could be 2011's surprise performer.
Baltimore Orioles MLB Predictions 2011 World Series Odds:
To Win 2011 World Series +10000
To Win 2011 AL Pennant +4000
To Win AL East +2000 (Five of Five)
Regular Season Wins – Over 76.5 (-120)/Under 76.5 (-110)
