Mike Elias’ choice of word in August, within the infamous “liftoff” quote, caused some confusion regarding payroll flexibility, but it was the first true indicator that he was moving past the rebuild stage and eyeing a much grander one.
Elias told the assembled media at the warehouse Friday morning that the rebuild was over, that it was “behind us.”
That’s liftoff. Different phrasing but the same positive message.
The Orioles weren’t using up most of their energy on addressing the farm system and creating the talent pipeline that would make them annual contenders. Wins would begin to matter again. The standings would begin to matter again beyond how it influences draft status.
The club is talking about the playoffs, and to anyone who will listen. These aren’t just internal conversations.