THE BALTIMORE BATTERY

Fan Fest was an annual occurrence here in downtown Baltimore, and it was known as one of the best ways for fans to personally connect with the Orioles players. Unfortunately, among the plethora of changes to the Orioles organization, Fan Fest will not return to Baltimore in 2020.

Accoriding to masnsports.com beat writer Roch Kubatko, the Orioles will be looking for other ways to connect fans with players. Wether Fan Fest has become a dying event in recent years or not, it was always a fantastic experience for all fans.

I think us as Orioles fans need some event such as Fan Fest. With a team that isn’t top tier on the field, the fans need something that attracts them to the team. Before you say I’m bashing Elias and his decisions, know I trust Elias and anything he decides to do. Although, having no personal fan event for the time being, I am a little disappointed.

One of my fondest Orioles memories came from the 2013 Fan Fest. Being a 15 year old die hard Orioles fan, I was coming off a horrid experience the October before. I witnessed, in person, my beloved O’s being knocked out of the 2012 ALDS by the Evil Empire in New York. Coming into Fan Fest in 2013, I was ecstatic to have a positive experience with my Orioles to wipe away that memory of defeat.

After waiting in line for an hour to meet pitcher Miguel Gonzalez, I was next in line. As I spoke with Miguel, you could tell he enjoyed meeting all of his fans. I told him how much I loved his knuckle curve, and that I was there supporting the team for 3 out of 5 games of that ALDS. After getting his autograph, Miguel Gonzalez looked at me and thanked me for the support. That memory meant so much, will always stick with me, and is a catalyst in my endless love for the Orioles. Without Fan Fest, I would have entered the 2013 season with a bad taste, rather than a memory I’ll forever cherish.

Below is a picture of Miguel Gonzalez and I at the 2013 Fan Fest:

I cannot wait for the new wave of fan connection with players, and I trust Mike Elias will propose an idea that trumps Fan Fest. As Fan Fest being cancelled is disappointing, me and all other fans alike should be looking forward to what Elias has in store for the fans.

Until that new event occurs, Fan Fest will forever be a Baltimore Orioles classic.

What are your thoughts on the cancellation of Fan Fest? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to follow The Baltimore Battery on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!