The Baltimore Orioles have started the 2023 season hot, with a 32-17 record in their first 49 games. Speculations for this success vary. Some believe it is the young talent they have been nurturing in their program, while others look beyond the field for answers. Team morale is at an all-time high as the city is eager to see the O’s keep winning. Average fan attendance per game increased from 16,893 last year to 19,668, nearly a 3,000 fans per game spike.  

The introduction of the Bird Bath splash zone has attracted many to get a unique viewing experience. In the splash zone, fans get sprayed with water by an Orioles staff member with a hose after the team has a hit that is not a single, known as an extra base hit. This mimics the team’s celebration where the dugouts spits water on the field after an extra base hit. Located in the lower left-field seats of the outfield, the section has sold out every game since it was introduced. Varsity baseball player and Orioles enthusiast Jett Steller (‘24) has already been to a handful of O’s games this season.  

“The energy has been electric in the ballpark and a big part of that is the celebrations,” Steller said. “The homer hose and splash zone are sick and creating an amped environment.” 

Credit must also go to the team as young talent has fueled many wins. Number one overall pick in the 2019 MLB draft Adley Rutschman has proven to be worth the hype already having seven home runs. He is considered the best catcher in all Major League Baseball by analysts at only 25 years old. Other young stars like Gunnar Henderson, Grayson Rodriguez, and Joey Ortiz have made big plays to help lift the team to victory. The Orioles have even more star power coming soon after drafting Jackson Holliday first overall in the 2022 MLB draft. He is currently 19 years old and playing for the Aberdeen IronBirds, the Minor League Baseball affiliate for the Orioles.  

Head custodian Mr. Dillon Sanders has watched the Orioles for many years growing up. This year is special.  

“Adley Rutschman — ever since we pulled him up, we have been winning,” Sanders said.  

Sanders is excited to catch a game Jun. 24 for the Purple Pride Jersey giveaway and if he’s lucky, he will be able to watch from the splash zone.