O's: Giant Step Backwards

In his 3 years as president of the Orioles, Andy MacPhail has never been more emotional before the media as he was at the press conference introducing Juan Samuel as the interim manager, following the firing of Dave Trembley.  MacPhail bluntly characterized the 2010 Orioles season as "a giant step backwards," and those O's fans who heard it no doubt agreed (as that giant step backwards has crushed many of their summertime hopes of semi-entertaining baseball).  Upon admitting the disaster this season has become, MacPhail quickly followed up that as bad as it is- the "abysmal" year so far does not make him change course in his blue print to contend in the A.L East.  He is committed to the notion that the development of minor leaguers into Major Leaguers is not just the best way to get the job done- it's the only way.  I've said it before:  it's hard to be adamant in your belief that you're right when so many around you are screaming that you're wrong.   Andy MacPhail is clearly feeling the pain, but he's not tapping out (not yet anyway).  Consumer confidence is no doubt trending downward on MacPhail, but he's standing strong before the on-rushing storm.  You don't have to agree with the guy, but I can't help but admire his conviction.   Then again, Dave Trembley stood strong amidst his own storm, and look where they got him.