Nats Inner Harbor Invasion Aftermath

(Courtesy Brotman Winter Fried)

You want a priceless reaction from an owner upon being asked to respond to a chicken/eagle/freak mascot and some Giant Racing President Heads passing out brochures and carrying confrontational signs just blocks from the stadium where his team plays? How about this one, from the Baltimore Sun:

Years ago, a Washington team promoting itself in downtown Baltimore might have seemed like an enemy incursion. But Angelos, when apprised of the event yesterday, said: "It doesn't strike me in any particular way. They're welcome to do that. It's a free country," Angelos said. "It [Baltimore and Washington] is one huge megalopolis, you know? It's about time we realize it."

"It's a free country!" Brills! Upon being told that Giant Racing Thomas was carrying a sign that read "Old Bay Stinks," Mr. Angelos no doubt replied "Sticks and Stones may break my bones but names about my distinctive regional spice combinations will never hurt me." I mean, either go funny ("Politicians will say anything," Angelos pointed out) or go angry ("Get those kids off my lawn!" Angelos said), but the quiet, "doesn't strike me in any particular way" passive aggression is fairly lame.

Other signs: Teddy ("I'll race the Orioles bird and beat him!"), Abe ("Honestly, the Nats will sweep Baltimore, hun!") If you want the earnest, what-it-all-means version, go to Nats320, which says "The past is history and it's time to enjoy the fun possibilities between Our Washington Nationals and The Baltimore Orioles--like these kids yesterday afternoon at The Inner Harbor in Baltimore." Me, I'm waiting for the Teddy-Oriole Bird bloodbath.

(Courtesy Brotman Winter Fried)