No “Battle of the Beltways” World Series this Year

Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

Heading into the Postseason last week, many fans in the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area were excited and hopeful to see a “Battle of the Beltways” World Series this year.

The Orioles did their part by sweeping the Tigers in three straight games. However, the same could not be said for the Nationals. Despite Bryce Harper’s monster home run in Game 1, the Nats went down 2-0 quickly in the series and were on the brink of elimination.

In Game 3 at San Francisco, Harper showed his power again as the Nationals went on to beat the Giants 4-1. Their comeback would fall short as they lost in another close game on Tuesday night. A wild pitch was the difference in the game as the Giants won and clinched their spot in the NLCS by a score of 3-2.

A “Battle of the Beltways” World Series would be a Mid-Atlantic Sports Network dream. This year though it will have to remain a dream. While the Nationals’ fans hopes for this year were crushed in San Francisco, Baltimore is still very much hopeful for their team. This year’s team is not just magical; they are extremely good.

Although we did not get the chance to see Miguel Gonzalez pitch in the Postseason yet because of the Orioles kept beating the Tigers, the pitching has kept the Orioles in each and every game. The bats are heating up at the right time and the defense is turning double plays like it is their job (because it is).

Now, less than 48 hours until Game 1 of the ALCS, all of Charm City begins to realize how close they are for a World Series to be played in Baltimore; the first ever in Camden Yards. Orioles’ fans hands are beginning to sweat a bit in anticipation of hanging on every game, every inning and every pitch.

Our voices are saved for when they can be used for the Seven Nation Army chant.  Four wins away. Four wins until Orioles’ fans are taken back in time for seven games. They are taken back to when reporters called Baltimore, “The best darn team in baseball.” Although the faces and even the ballpark are different, the mold of success remains the same.

Excellent pitching. Outstanding defense. A desire to win that cannot be matched. And fans who have orange and black run through their veins.

Play ball!