"I always knew I was coming back," Trembley said. "I never doubted one bit that I'd be coming back, because I'm dealing with people that are honest and fair."

Trembley has also asked his entire coaching staff to return for the 2009 season.

Trembley spent 20 seasons managing in the minor leagues, compiling a 1,369-1,413 record. He began last season as the bullpen coach, and took over as interim manager of the Orioles June 18, 2007, when then-manager Sam Perlozzo was fired.

Trembley was rewarded with a 2008 contract on Aug. 22, 2007. On that night, the Orioles shattered a handful of major league records with a 30-3 loss to Texas in the opening game of a double-header.

ATHLETICS 11, ORIOLES 2: Oakland put up eight runs in the eighth inning, ruining a decent start from Orioles left-hander Chris Waters. The Orioles walked ten batters and used five pitchers -- all of them allowed a run -- as the team lost for the seventh straight game.