In a move today that surprised absolutely no one, Baltimore Orioles owner Peter G. Angelos has announced that Camden Yards will be renamed “Fenway South”.

“Let’s be honest,” commented Angelos, “we can’t beat the Red Sox. We’re 2-16 against them for the 2009 season. And half the attendees at these Sox Orioles games at Camden Yards are Boston fans anyway. From what I hear, it’s cheaper to fly down to Baltimore, get a nice hotel room for 2, have dinner and see the Red Sox pummel my team, than it is to get a couple of nosebleeds up in Boston.”

“So, after some very short negotiations with John Henry, I’m happy to co-opt Camden Yards out to a franchise that can actually win a few a games in a season. And. . . I’d like to cash in on some of that Boston merchandise. So, let the word go forth, from this time and place, Camden Yards is now Fenway South. ”

Baltimore fans will not be shocked to see the move that has long been rumored. After suffering in the basement of the AL East for over ten years, most Orioles fans will be relieved to root for a team that can put together a winning season and make it to the playoffs.

“I’m happy to see it finally happen officially,” commented long time Orioles fan Dwight DeLippis. “I’ve always been jealous of the Red Sox fans, coming down here to Baltimore and beating the shit out of my team. Now I can switch to wearing Boston caps and jerseys without any loss of pride.”

Details of the deal have yet to be worked out, but according to Angelos’ office, Camden will receive a complete make over during the off season, and be ready to host the Red Sox for the 2010 season.

“It was time,” continued Angelos. “Now when the Red Sox come to Baltimore to play the Orioles, they’ll have a home away from home, as will their fans.”

Opposition to the move has been small but vocal.

“I’ve been a Baltimore Orioles fan since they moved here in ’54″, stated local resident Don Cardenas, “but the last ten years or so… I understand why they’re doing it, even if it is embarrassing.”

No more embarrassing than the Orioles record against the Red Sox, which many MLB insiders postulate is the reason for the move. The addition of a second home ball park for an MLB team is unprecedented, but the deal has been approved by Bud Selig’s office.

What then, will happen to the Orioles club?

“Essentially, the Baltimore Orioles will become the Washington Senators to the Red Sox Globetrotters. It’s been that way for years, now we’re just formalizing it,” answered Orioles Manager David Tremblay.