Clear Eyes. Full Hearts. Beat Yu. Let's go O's!

Oct. 5, 2012

For most of the past decade, including prior to this season, I likely would have had a Jim Mora-type reaction had you suggested to me that the Orioles would make the playoffs. "You kidding me? Playoffs?"

How wonderful it is then to be preparing to watch the Orioles' first playoff appearance since Game 6 of the 1997 ALCS.

For fans of "Friday Night Lights" and bad Photoshop efforts, I offer the image attached to this post that provides a look inside the visitor's locker room in Texas. And for those of you reading about the Orioles rather than doing work today - and who can blame you? - here are some playoff baseball links, starting with my favorite headline:

Rangers will find a way to lose to the Orioles (Larry Stone, Seattle Times)

One-game wild card playoffs offer history, excitement -- and pressure (Tom Verducci, SI.com)

Duquette's Orioles are all ready to fly (Howard Herman, Berkshire Eagle)

Tons of credit to pass around for Orioles' stunning season (Jon Heyman, CBS Sports)

Previewing the Wild Card showdown (Chris Stoner, Baltimore Sports and Life)

The many ex-Rangers who now play for the Orioles (Stacey Long, Camden Chat)

Postseason probably means an improbable hero or two (My Friday guest post on MASN)