Leading Off The second half of the season is certainly something. The Orioles survived July, and are off to prove that they can bounce back from their first losing month in two years. Meanwhile, do we recognize half this team? Drink of the Week Join us for the Drink of the Week, and let us know how you’re consoling yourself as you watch the O’s. Find us on Untappd * magn8606 * jakee4025 This Week on the Socials .@Orioles fans…happy to report my partners and I now own 100% of our beloved team. We are truly humbled by the honor and grateful for the opportunity to work with a world-class organization on behalf of you, the best fans in MLB.https://t.co/Jhnuwivef1— David M. Rubenstein (@DM_Rubenstein) August 1, 2024 imagine your first major league homer hitting Eutaw St AND being a grand slam. yeah. pic.twitter.com/FHLL3FDnUZ— Orioles on MASN (@masnOrioles) July 31, 2024 James McCann said he told MLB a few years ago that pitchers should have access to sunscreen or rosin on the mound so that players are safer. He thinks it’s needed even more now after he and Westburg got hit— Danielle Allentuck (@d_allentuck) August 1, 2024 Lifeline at the Deadline The Orioles did some serious work at the trade deadline. Between parting with one of their key links to the Dark Ages, to trying to recreate the 2023 Phillies bullpen… they were busy. But was it… enough? Did they do the damn thing? Did they fail to give up too much, all while making themselves better right now, all while getting controllable talent? We will see. But until we see, Birdland will argue about it. Around the Bases First Base: Rough Patches So… how are we feeling? The Orioles were 12-13 in July, and have experienced [clutches pearls] losing streaks! the Yankees are right on their heels, and the Red Sox are uncomfortably close. Time to hit the panic button? Second Base: Since when is Gunnar mortal? Gunnar Henderson has experienced some unusual (and infuriating) defensive struggles at shortstop. Sure, everyone understands he’s tired. He didn’t get the benefit of the All Star break because he was busy representing the Orioles, the American League, and everyone who has ever wanted a sweet, sweet stache. The team is also in a situation in which the viable defensive backups are hurt. So what’s the plan? Pain, probably. Pain and patience. Third Base: A little light stalking