For being a hometown product, Brian Jordan never seems to pass up a chance to aggravate the Orioles. Sometimes it's subtle, sometimes it's in full view of 38,569 fans.
He could have signed with them four years ago, providing a nice local touch to their winter dealings, but instead chose the Atlanta Braves and closer proximity to his Alpharetta, Ga., residence. The Orioles countered by signing Albert Belle, a move that backfired with such force, the franchise still is covered in soot.
After shaking hands yesterday with players on the high school all-star teams that once showcased his amateur talents, Jordan rattled the Orioles by driving in both runs against them in the Los Angeles Dodgers' 2-1 victory at Camden Yards.
The Milford Mill graduate lined a double into left-center field in the first inning to score Shawn Green and lifted a sacrifice fly in the third for a 2-0 lead against Orioles starter Sidney Ponson. Jordan also beat out an infield hit after being 0-for-10 lifetime against Ponson.
"It was a lot of fun this weekend," said Jordan, who walked twice in the first two games of this interleague series. "Finally, I got a hit today. I was trying so hard. Your family's here and you want to do well. Finally today I settled down and relaxed and had a pretty good game."
He seemed at ease earlier while greeting members of the Crown All-Star teams on the field. Jordan played in the 1985 game at Memorial Stadium before heading to the University of Richmond.
"I watched Cal Ripken play there growing up, and Eddie Murray was my favorite. To be on the same field they played on was an experience I'll never forget," he said.
Returning to Milford Mill on Friday, Jordan donated two $16,000 scholarships during an assembly in his honor. He was greeted by signs with his name splashed across them and the usual embraces often reserved for a local hero.
"It was great to be back at my high school and to give back to my foundation," he said. "That's what it's all about. The kids are our future and I feel like I'm a positive role model for them. And hopefully they'll be successful like myself."
Or like the trade that brought him to the Dodgers, who sent disgruntled outfielder Gary Sheffield to the Braves in January. Along with a harmonious clubhouse, the Dodgers also received pitcher Odalis Perez, the other half of yesterday's torment for the Orioles.
Perez struck out 10 over eight innings before closer Eric Gagne notched his 21st save by stranding the tying run at third base.
"The Orioles, I give them a lot of credit," Jordan said. "They've got a good team. Their young guys are battling and playing their hearts out."
If only Jordan would stop breaking them.