Nick Markakis, 2008 Topps Year In Review #YR174

They did it. They really did it. The Orioles pounded the Blue Jays, 8-2, for their 91st win of the season. Their ninth win in the last ten games. The win that clinched their status as 2014 American League East Champions. The O's are on top of the East for the first time since 1997, and it's the first time they've celebrated a clinch with a home victory since 1969. I was there, and the celebration was still going when I reluctantly left at 11:00 PM. Crappy iPhone photos and game recap tomorrow. For now, I'm just thrilled for Nick Markakis, who endured six seasons of losing at the beginning of his career, only to be sidelined with a broken wrist when the Birds finally reached the postseason in 2012. (Thanks, CC Sabathia.) Now, he finally gets to participate in playoff baseball. I love this team. I love this season.