Orioles make decision on announcer after receiving immense backlash

Brown, who occasionally announces for ESPN as well, has been serving a suspension since late July, allegedly for his comments before the team's series finale against the Tampa Bay Rays on July 23. If the reasoning for the punishment is true (the team has denied the accusations), it's one of the more unreasonable suspensions for a commentator in recent memory.

During the commentary in question, Brown simply pointed out that the Orioles, at the time, were 0-15-1 in the previous 16 road series at Tropicana Field, which resulted in a 3-18 record from 2020 to 2022. Brown was stating a fact, showed no disrespect and there was even a premade graphic on the broadcast that he used to convey the information.

Since then, scores of fellow media members have both come to the defense of Brown and bashed ownership, specifically Orioles CEO John Angelos. Fans have taken to social media and other communication methods in support of the announcer as well.

It's unclear whether the organization chose to reinstate Brown on Friday as a response to the immense backlash or if it previously planned for his return at the end of the week. If so, it's quite a coincidence.

Since Brown's been away, Baltimore has gone 8-2. The O's begin a big three-game home series against the Houston Astros (64-49) on Tuesday.

The Orioles' hot streak has them holding their biggest lead of the season atop the AL East (three games ahead of the second-place Tampa Bay Rays) and with the best record in the in the AL at 70-42. They're just one game behind the Atlanta Braves (70-40) for the top mark in MLB.