Baltimore braces for big sports week

Associated Press

BALTIMORE

Looting, rioting and violence has left Baltimore rattled and in a state of repair. Officials hope a big sports week has a healing effect on the beleaguered city.

Civil unrest remains an issue in Baltimore after two weeks of tension between residents and police. The return of the Orioles for an extended period and the running of the Preakness could help ease matters.

The Orioles expect to play before enthusiastic crowds throughout the week, and track officials say good weather could lead to record attendance numbers at Pimlico Race Course.

“We certainly recognize the role that we play in the community, and hope we would always be seen as a unifying experience,” said Greg Bader, vice president of marketing and communications for the Orioles.

The defending American League East champions begin a nine-game homestand at Camden Yards today. That also marks the start of Preakness Week, the annual buildup at Pimlico to the middle jewel of the Triple Crown.

Baltimore was overrun by violence and destruction April 27 after the funeral of Freddie Gray, a 25-year-old black man who died of spinal cord injuries while in the custody of Baltimore police. The Orioles postponed two home games and, in an unprecedented move, played a third without allowing fans to enter. Then they shed three home games against the Rays on May 1-3 to St. Petersburg, Florida.

“It’s an unfortunate situation, but we’re trying to make the best of it,” Orioles first baseman Chris Davis said during a series at Yankee Stadium, the team’s last stop before returning home.

Today’s game against Toronto will be the Orioles’ first in front of their fans since April 26. Much has changed in Baltimore while they were on the road.

Attorney General Loretta Lynch said Friday the Justice Department will conduct a broad investigation into the Baltimore police force to identify law enforcement practices that are unconstitutional and violate civil rights.