Skipper or the Crew?

Numerous media outlets are reporting that Baltimore Orioles manager Dave Trembley will be dismissed before the Orioles begin their next series against Boston on Friday night at Oriole Park. Baltimore’s record stands at an abysmal 15-39, their worst start since 1988 when they began the year with 21 consecutive losses. 21.5 games out of first place and losers of 10 of their last 11, the Birds seem to just go through the motions night after night.

It's very easy to point the finger at the skipper, but how much control does a manager really have over a team's play? Trembley has been criticized for his mismanagement of the bullpen, questionable line up decisions, and the inability to motivate or prepare his club. While these factors definitely contribute to a team's success, one has to question whether or not these things alone can be attributed to the Orioles' lackluster play.

Nothing Trembley has done this season is responsible for the Orioles' offense failing to provide any run support for a starting pitching staff that has, for the better part of the season, done its part. Baltimore ranks near the bottom of the league in nearly every offensive category, scoring a paltry 180 runs and sporting a team batting average of just .246. With injuries to key players like Brian Roberts, Felix Pie, and Mike Gonzales, and the apparent regression of young prospects Adam Jones, Nolan Reimold, and Brad Bergesen, Trembley’s hands have been tied all season.

Trembley needs to be held accountable for his team's play, but that doesn't necessarily put him at fault. Dave is a nice man and an Oriole at heart, but unfortunately when a business is failing to meet expectations, the manager is always the first to go.