In his first year as owner, David Rubenstein saw firsthand the connection the Orioles have to the city of Baltimore and its fans. In his second, he hopes to strengthen that bond even more. Rubenstein touted the Orioles’ 56% increase in spending on player payroll this offseason and laid out plans for “major renovations” to Camden Yards during a 17-minute news conference with

As he enters his second season, Orioles owner David Rubenstein talks with PressBox about what the team means to him and the city.

David Rubenstein was waiting for approval on his bid to buy the Orioles, and that came just before last March’s Opening Day. Rubenstein quickly won fans over by greeting them before the opener and tossing hats and balls throughout Camden Yards.

David Rubenstein conducted his first true news conference as Orioles owner Monday during spring training. He answered questions about the franchise’s payroll, extensions for young stars and more during the 17-minute session.