Leo Mazzone would be a huge pickup for the Orioles' coaching and pitching staffs. Mazzone has helped the Braves develop some of the best pitchers of this generation, which has been the key for them to win 14 straight division titles. As much as I like Ray Miller, Mazzone has been developing young talent for a winning organization for over a decade. Mazzone will hopefully be able to come in and get a quick grasp of the O's pitchers and be working with them throughout the off-season to make strides by the time the season rolls around. Specifically, I'm excited to see what he can do working with Erik Bedard and Daniel Cabrera.

It makes me even happier to know that the O's moved in on this deal only after the Yankees failed to bring him in. After Mel Stottlemyre's contract expired after the season, the Yanks immediately looked to get the best man in to replace him. They couldn't reach a deal, however, and that's when the O's began negotiating. Mazzone and Perlozzo grew up together in Maryland and have continued a strong friendship through today. Not that the O's are poised to make any kind of division title run, but it's a strong move to bring in one of the greatest assistants of all time.


Extra note: Maryland has finally started to play some good football this year but they're going to need an amazing effort tonight if they want to upset Virginia Tech. The Hokies have one of the top defenses in the nation so putting up points will be tough for the Terps. It would be nice for the Terps to make a strong showing on a nationally televised game tonight.