Fast forward four months later, and Rubenstein’s foresight had become a reality. The team’s early magic had faded, with fans now voicing concerns as the Orioles dropped back in the standings. However, true to his character, Rubenstein wasn’t hiding. He met the criticism head-on. “Obviously everybody knows that the team played better in the first half than the second half,” he candidly told The Baltimore Sun in an interview this past Wednesday.
Baseball’s a Long Game: The 162-Game Marathon
“Baseball is 162 games a year. Players get hurt, players have slumps. We’re in reasonably good shape because we are what, half a game out of first place? Do I wish we won every game? Of course,” Rubenstein added, showing a sense of calm amidst the anxious chatter. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and Rubenstein understands that more than anyone.
His practical perspective is exactly what the Orioles need at this critical point. Fans are growing restless, questioning whether the injury-hit team could have done more to fortify their roster before the July 30 trade deadline. With the Orioles soaring to 20 games over .500 by mid-June, expectations were high. But since then, the team has played .500 ball, and doubts have crept in.
For Rubenstein, this is the first time his popularity as the new owner has taken a hit. After all, this is the same guy who won over fans by dancing on the dugout with the Oriole bird and even taking on the role of “Mr. Splash,” spraying water into the stands. His enthusiasm was infectious, but now, it’s all business.
A Trust in Leadership
Rubenstein, who co-founded The Carlyle Group, one of the largest private equity firms globally, has never been one to micromanage. This isn’t a meddling owner dictating from the top. In fact, he revealed to The Sun that he talks with General Manager Mike Elias once a week and trusts Elias’ vision for the team. “Mike briefs me and co-owner Mike Arougheti about planned trades,” Rubenstein explained, adding, “Arougheti is much more knowledgeable about many baseball things than I am, so Mike weighs in.”
Rubenstein’s confidence in Elias is unwavering, even in the face of criticism. Fans on social media have been quick to point fingers, claiming the Orioles could’ve done more to bolster their injury-riddled pitching staff at the trade deadline. Yes, the team brought in a few new arms, but they were cautious about giving up too many young prospects for short-term gains. It’s a strategic move, and one that Rubenstein is willing to back.
“We’ve got really good young players—in many ways, the envy of the professional baseball world,” Rubenstein proudly stated. “There’s so much young talent on the team and in the farm system, so I’m feeling pretty good about where we are.”
A Legacy Rooted in Baltimore
Rubenstein’s investment in the Orioles runs deeper than business. He’s a Baltimore native, the son of a mailman and a homemaker, and his purchase of the club earlier this year was largely motivated by a desire to give back to his hometown. Officially taking over from the late Peter Angelos and his family in March, Rubenstein stepped into the spotlight with hopes of breathing new life into the franchise.
Unlike John Angelos, the former control person who often cited budget limitations due to Baltimore being a small-market team, Rubenstein isn’t rushing to make similar judgments. Instead, he’s relying on Elias to guide the Orioles’ future decisions. It’s too early to say whether they’ll be big spenders or maintain a more conservative approach, but for now, Rubenstein is staying the course.
In the meantime, he’s making his presence felt, not from the owner’s box, but from the stands. Rubenstein’s game-day attendance hasn’t faltered, even as the Orioles’ performance has dipped. Fans regularly spot him sitting among them, happily posing for selfies and soaking in the experience like any other die-hard supporter. And with the San Francisco Giants coming to town next, Rubenstein has no plans to stop showing up.
Challenges and Injuries Take a Toll
The Orioles’ biggest struggle? Injuries, particularly to their pitching staff, have been relentless. It’s a storyline that’s left fans frustrated, especially since they believe more could’ve been done at the trade deadline. While the team made a few moves, they held back from going all-in, opting to protect their young talent in the farm system.
Yet Rubenstein sees the bigger picture. He pointed out that even the Texas Rangers, last year’s World Series champions, finished second in their division before winning it all as a wild card. “We’re still in the thick of things,” he emphasized.
Heading into Wednesday’s game, the Orioles were just half a game behind the New York Yankees in the AL East. The standings may not reflect the blistering start the team had, but Rubenstein remains optimistic. “We’d like to be in first place. There’s an advantage to it, but I’m not at all worried about our being in the playoffs. I think we will be, for sure. I just don’t know which position we’ll come in.”
Looking Ahead: Building for the Future
Rubenstein’s faith in the Orioles’ long-term success is palpable. The young talent is there, the leadership is trusted, and despite the bumps in the road, the vision remains clear. There’s no panic in his voice, no knee-jerk reactions. Instead, he’s focused on the future, one where Baltimore can compete with the biggest names in baseball.
His approach may not satisfy the instant-gratification crowd, but Rubenstein’s playing the long game. With the playoffs on the horizon and the team in striking distance of the division lead, the real test is just beginning. And for Rubenstein, who’s seen the rise and fall of markets and teams alike, it’s all part of the process.
Sure, the Orioles’ second half hasn’t been as thrilling as their early-season surge, but the playoffs are a different beast altogether. Anything can happen in October, and Rubenstein knows that better than anyone. After all, in baseball—and in life—sometimes it’s not how you start, but how you finish.
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