Affiliate relations -- DOWN -- What does it say when the Orioles want to extend their working agreement with Triple-A Rochester for three years and Red Wings management counters with one? A 39-year relationship is at risk because of several factors -- disappointing talent, no more Marvelous Marv Foley and now the bad taste preceding Monday's exhibition.

Cal 2000 -- UP -- The Orioles have decided to assume Cal Ripken's option for next season, thereby avoiding at least one controversy.

B.J. Surhoff -- UP -- Joe Torre will make it official this week: After being left on hold for 13 seasons, the Orioles left fielder is going to the All-Star Game. Albert Belle won't be, but his presence has assisted Surhoff's consistent season.

Bullpen madness -- DOWN -- One day Mike Timlin is praised for his recent work and the next he is ripped for pitching scared. Things are so bad Ray Miller has promised to give problem child Rocky Coppinger a chance. What next, retiring Heathcliff Slocumb's number?

The A train -- DOWN -- Miller can't use co-closer Arthur Rhodes on consecutive days and complains about his inability to warm quickly. No progress on contract talks. A trade might make everyone's day.

"The Home of the Game" -- UP -- Columbia author Thom Loverro's intertwining of Camden Yards with the Angelos era. For deep thinkers, Orioles minority shareholder George Will wrote the book's forward.

Pub Date: 7/04/99