It took 12 innings, but the Birds took down the Phillies 6-4 in front of a sell-out crowd at Camden Yards on Saturday evening.
Adam Jones broke out of an 0-for-18 slump with a single in the ninth before launching a walk-off two run bomb in the bottom of the 12th. It was Jones' team-leading 17th long ball of the season; 11 of his homers have either tied a game or given the Birds a lead.
Tommy Hunter's return from Triple-A was a success...Hunter went seven innings, walked none and allowed just three runs (all solo homers). The 'pen allowed just a run on five hits over the final five frames.
The Birds have now split the series with Philadelphia and look to take the rubber-game this afternoon behind Jason Hammel.
ORIOLES BASEBALL 2012
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Arrieta Stumbles Yet Again
What is wrong with Jake Arrieta?
The Birds fell to the visiting Phillies 9-6 on Friday night. Arrieta lasted just four innings, surrendering nine runs on 11 hits before being yanked. He walked none and fanned five in the 83-pitch outing.
Arrieta (2-8) now leads the Majors in losses and he's dropped six straight. It's frustrating. He shows flashes of brilliance (he struck out the side in the third after the Phillies hit for the cycle in a six-run second) but can't seem to put everything together consistently this season. A trip to Norfolk looks likely...
The Birds were down 7-0 in the second inning but rallied back to make a game of it. Chris Davis slapped a solo shot in the fourth and J.J. Hardy launched a two-run bomb in the seventh, but the deficit was just too great to overcome.
With the loss, the O's (32-26) dropped into third place in the division, trailing Tampa Bay by a game and the Yankees by a half game. Tommy Hunter has been called up from Norfolk and will get the start on Saturday afternoon.
The Birds fell to the visiting Phillies 9-6 on Friday night. Arrieta lasted just four innings, surrendering nine runs on 11 hits before being yanked. He walked none and fanned five in the 83-pitch outing.
Arrieta (2-8) now leads the Majors in losses and he's dropped six straight. It's frustrating. He shows flashes of brilliance (he struck out the side in the third after the Phillies hit for the cycle in a six-run second) but can't seem to put everything together consistently this season. A trip to Norfolk looks likely...
The Birds were down 7-0 in the second inning but rallied back to make a game of it. Chris Davis slapped a solo shot in the fourth and J.J. Hardy launched a two-run bomb in the seventh, but the deficit was just too great to overcome.
With the loss, the O's (32-26) dropped into third place in the division, trailing Tampa Bay by a game and the Yankees by a half game. Tommy Hunter has been called up from Norfolk and will get the start on Saturday afternoon.
Matusz Rocked As O's Blanked In Fenway
Brian Matusz turned in his shortest outing of the season and the O's were blanked on four hits in a 7-0 drubbing by the Red Sox on Thursday night.
Matusz lasted just two innings, giving up five runs (four earned) on four hits and FIVE walks...he needed 67 pitches to record six outs. Devastating.
Of course, the offense was nowhere to be found, and the defense was lacking as the Birds committed another two errors.
The O's still managed to take the series and head home after going 3-6 on this divisional road trip in a tie for first with Tampa Bay.
Jake Arrieta takes the mound Friday night as the Birds kick-off another round of Interleague play starting with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Matusz lasted just two innings, giving up five runs (four earned) on four hits and FIVE walks...he needed 67 pitches to record six outs. Devastating.
Of course, the offense was nowhere to be found, and the defense was lacking as the Birds committed another two errors.
The O's still managed to take the series and head home after going 3-6 on this divisional road trip in a tie for first with Tampa Bay.
Jake Arrieta takes the mound Friday night as the Birds kick-off another round of Interleague play starting with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Chen Gives O's Series Over Sox
The Orioles are once again in sole possession of first in the East after a 2-1 win over Boston on Wednesday night.
I could get used to this.
Wei-Yin Chen was magnificent, pitching seven innings of one-run ball. Pedro Strop took on his usual eight- inning duties, and Jim Johnson came on in the ninth to start another streak of saves.
The Birds have snapped a season-worst string of four straight series losses and have a chance to sweep Boston at Fenway for the second time this season Thursday night.
Brian Matusz takes the mound...Let's Go O's!!!
I could get used to this.
Wei-Yin Chen was magnificent, pitching seven innings of one-run ball. Pedro Strop took on his usual eight- inning duties, and Jim Johnson came on in the ninth to start another streak of saves.
The Birds have snapped a season-worst string of four straight series losses and have a chance to sweep Boston at Fenway for the second time this season Thursday night.
Brian Matusz takes the mound...Let's Go O's!!!
O's Topple Sox In 10 Innings
It was bound to happen...Jim Johnson blew a save for the first time this season. When it was all said and done, JJ picked up his first W in 2012 after the Birds bested the Sox 8-6 in 10 innings on Tuesday night.
You gotta love baseball.
The O's and Sox battled back and forth all evening, but the Birds took a commanding 6-4 lead into the ninth and Buck Showalter handed the ball to the best closer in the majors. Johnson needed one more strike to pick up his 18th straight save before serving up a two-run dinger in the bottom of the ninth.
Nevermind all the stats...I'm WAY late on this post. The O's would not let Johnson down, scoring twice in the top of the tenth, letting the closer try one more time. JJ got em' 1-2-3 and the Birds won again at Fenway.
Wei-Yin Chen looks to make it two straight on Wednesday night.
You gotta love baseball.
The O's and Sox battled back and forth all evening, but the Birds took a commanding 6-4 lead into the ninth and Buck Showalter handed the ball to the best closer in the majors. Johnson needed one more strike to pick up his 18th straight save before serving up a two-run dinger in the bottom of the ninth.
Nevermind all the stats...I'm WAY late on this post. The O's would not let Johnson down, scoring twice in the top of the tenth, letting the closer try one more time. JJ got em' 1-2-3 and the Birds won again at Fenway.
Wei-Yin Chen looks to make it two straight on Wednesday night.
Monday, June 4, 2012
O's Fall Out Of First
Jake Arrieta was masterful for three innings but unraveled in the fourth and the O's fell to the Rays 8-4 on Sunday afternoon.
It was the fourth straight series the Birds have dropped, and the loss gave Tampa Bay sole possession of first in the East.
Arrieta (2-7) continues to be a mystery this season, showing flashes of brilliance before falling apart. He lasted just 4 2/3 innings, surrendering four runs on just two hits but four walks, striking out three. The 'pen, overworked lately, gave up another four runs (only three earned...the O's committed three errors and lead the league with 51).
The Birds thankfully have Monday off before starting a three-game set with the Red Sox. Jason Hammel takes the mound at Fenway on Tuesday night.
It was the fourth straight series the Birds have dropped, and the loss gave Tampa Bay sole possession of first in the East.
Arrieta (2-7) continues to be a mystery this season, showing flashes of brilliance before falling apart. He lasted just 4 2/3 innings, surrendering four runs on just two hits but four walks, striking out three. The 'pen, overworked lately, gave up another four runs (only three earned...the O's committed three errors and lead the league with 51).
The Birds thankfully have Monday off before starting a three-game set with the Red Sox. Jason Hammel takes the mound at Fenway on Tuesday night.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Matusz Lifts O's Over Rays
Somebody needed to step up. Brian Matusz turned in his best start of the season on Saturday afternoon and the O's snapped a six-game losing streak with a 2-1 victory over Tampa Bay. The two clubs are now tied for first with one game left in the series.
Matusz (5-5) took a no-hitter into the fifth and allowed just a run on two hits and three walks over 7 1/3 innings, fanning seven. Pedro Strop came on in relief in the eighth and walked a batter to load the bases before inducing an inning-ending double play. Jim Johnson pitched a scoreless ninth to notch his 17th save in as many tries this season.
Endy Chavez put the Birds on the board with a solo homer, his first of the season, in the third inning. The O's took advantage of a throwing error to score what would be the winning run in the seventh.
Jake Arrieta takes the mound on Sunday afternoon...let's see if he can follow Matusz's lead. Go O's!
Matusz (5-5) took a no-hitter into the fifth and allowed just a run on two hits and three walks over 7 1/3 innings, fanning seven. Pedro Strop came on in relief in the eighth and walked a batter to load the bases before inducing an inning-ending double play. Jim Johnson pitched a scoreless ninth to notch his 17th save in as many tries this season.
Endy Chavez put the Birds on the board with a solo homer, his first of the season, in the third inning. The O's took advantage of a throwing error to score what would be the winning run in the seventh.
Jake Arrieta takes the mound on Sunday afternoon...let's see if he can follow Matusz's lead. Go O's!
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Birds Blanked, Drop Out Of First
For the first time this season, I turned off an O's game early. To be fair, I had worked all day and needed to get a two hour nap before heading back in. But after Tampa Bay took a 5-0 lead in the first inning, I had no trouble turning off the TV and catching a few z's.
I woke up to find the final score was the same as it was in that fateful first frame...the Rays blanked the O's and took over sole possession of first place on Friday night. It was the sixth straight loss for the Birds...
Wei-Yin Chen was the latest starter to falter, though he bounced back and lasted 5 2/3 innings. The bullpen followed with an impressive performance, but the early damage was too much to overcome.
It's tough to win when you don't score any runs, and the Birds were held scoreless on seven singles. Adam Jones and Matt Wieters both went 2-for-4. The O's haven't had an extra-base hit in the past two games...
Brian Matusz takes the mound Saturday afternoon as the O's try to snap the losing streak...here's hoping.
I woke up to find the final score was the same as it was in that fateful first frame...the Rays blanked the O's and took over sole possession of first place on Friday night. It was the sixth straight loss for the Birds...
Wei-Yin Chen was the latest starter to falter, though he bounced back and lasted 5 2/3 innings. The bullpen followed with an impressive performance, but the early damage was too much to overcome.
It's tough to win when you don't score any runs, and the Birds were held scoreless on seven singles. Adam Jones and Matt Wieters both went 2-for-4. The O's haven't had an extra-base hit in the past two games...
Brian Matusz takes the mound Saturday afternoon as the O's try to snap the losing streak...here's hoping.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
O's Drop Fifth Straight Behind Hammel
Jason Hammel couldn't stop the bleeding and the O's fell to Toronto 4-1 on Wednesday night.
Hammel gave up four solo homers in 6 2/3 innings after allowing just three in his previous nine starts and fell to 6-2 on the season.
The O's scored on an infield hit in the second inning but were kept off the board the rest of the game, managing just four hits all night and striking out 10 times.
The Birds have now lost three straight series and have won just two of their last 10 games, yet are still tied for first with the Rays.
After an off-day Thursday, things get interesting as the O's take on Tampa Bay for a three-game set starting Friday night. Wei-Yin Chen looks to lead the Birds to victory and sole possession of first...
Hammel gave up four solo homers in 6 2/3 innings after allowing just three in his previous nine starts and fell to 6-2 on the season.
The O's scored on an infield hit in the second inning but were kept off the board the rest of the game, managing just four hits all night and striking out 10 times.
The Birds have now lost three straight series and have won just two of their last 10 games, yet are still tied for first with the Rays.
After an off-day Thursday, things get interesting as the O's take on Tampa Bay for a three-game set starting Friday night. Wei-Yin Chen looks to lead the Birds to victory and sole possession of first...
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
O's Drop Fourth Straight
The O's recent slide continued with an 8-6 loss to Toronto on Tuesday night.
Jake Arrieta was rocked to the tune of seven runs (six earned) off six hits and three walks in just 4 1/3 innings. Arrieta (2-6) hasn't won in four weeks and his ERA now stands at 5.37.
The offense didn't help him out, either. The Birds managed just three hits over the first five innings, and were down 8-1 heading into the sixth. The O's rally fell short with the go-ahead run at the plate in the ninth.
Adam Jones went 3-for-3 with a single, two walks, two homers and three RBIs and extended his career-best hit streak to 20 games.
The Birds (29-21) are still tied with Tampa for the lead in the East, but just 3 1/2 games separate the five teams in the division. If the Birds don't start winning soon, they could be in last place by the end of this road trip. The O's turn to Jason Hammel on Wednesday night and look to avoid the sweep.
Jake Arrieta was rocked to the tune of seven runs (six earned) off six hits and three walks in just 4 1/3 innings. Arrieta (2-6) hasn't won in four weeks and his ERA now stands at 5.37.
The offense didn't help him out, either. The Birds managed just three hits over the first five innings, and were down 8-1 heading into the sixth. The O's rally fell short with the go-ahead run at the plate in the ninth.
Adam Jones went 3-for-3 with a single, two walks, two homers and three RBIs and extended his career-best hit streak to 20 games.
The Birds (29-21) are still tied with Tampa for the lead in the East, but just 3 1/2 games separate the five teams in the division. If the Birds don't start winning soon, they could be in last place by the end of this road trip. The O's turn to Jason Hammel on Wednesday night and look to avoid the sweep.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
O's Drop Third Straight
The O's lost their third straight game after a humiliating 6-2 loss to Toronto on Monday night.
Tommy Hunter lasted just 3 innings, giving up six runs (five earned) on nine hits, walking none and striking out none. Hunter (2-3) gave up a two-run shot in the third and another in the fourth before being pulled. The 'pen allowed just three baserunners through the final five frames, but Hunter's hole was too deep...
The O's continued to struggle offensively, and were held scoreless until the ninth inning. They squandered a chance in the third inning...a single, three walks and no runs. That's pretty much been the story these last few games. Adam Jones extended his hit streak to 19 games with a single in the ninth, and Mark Reynolds slapped an RBI double in his first game back from the DL.
The three-game losing streak ties a season-worst for the Birds...they were swept in three by the Yankees in early April. Tampa Bay lost earlier in the day, so the O's (29-20) are still tied for first in the division.
These last few games have hurt, but I fully expect the O's to battle back later tonight. The starters have been pretty consistent so far, and the talent is there. I'm hoping to avoid the long losing streaks that we've seen in seasons past. The offense has been in a slump but the Birds are tied with the Yankees for second in the league with 72 long balls. Let's see if they can put it all together on Tuesday night...Jake Arrieta takes the mound and looks to put the O's back in the win column.
Tommy Hunter lasted just 3 innings, giving up six runs (five earned) on nine hits, walking none and striking out none. Hunter (2-3) gave up a two-run shot in the third and another in the fourth before being pulled. The 'pen allowed just three baserunners through the final five frames, but Hunter's hole was too deep...
The O's continued to struggle offensively, and were held scoreless until the ninth inning. They squandered a chance in the third inning...a single, three walks and no runs. That's pretty much been the story these last few games. Adam Jones extended his hit streak to 19 games with a single in the ninth, and Mark Reynolds slapped an RBI double in his first game back from the DL.
The three-game losing streak ties a season-worst for the Birds...they were swept in three by the Yankees in early April. Tampa Bay lost earlier in the day, so the O's (29-20) are still tied for first in the division.
These last few games have hurt, but I fully expect the O's to battle back later tonight. The starters have been pretty consistent so far, and the talent is there. I'm hoping to avoid the long losing streaks that we've seen in seasons past. The offense has been in a slump but the Birds are tied with the Yankees for second in the league with 72 long balls. Let's see if they can put it all together on Tuesday night...Jake Arrieta takes the mound and looks to put the O's back in the win column.
Monday, May 28, 2012
O's Drop Series To Royals
You gotta beat the teams you're supposed to beat. Yet the first-place O's fell to the Kansas City Royals, the second-worst team in the AL, 4-2 on Sunday afternoon at Camden Yards.
That being said, this was the first time all season that the Birds dropped back-to-back series, which is pretty amazing. The O's finished the homestand with a disappointing 2-4 record but are still tied with the Rays for first in the East.
Brian Matusz pitched a good game, allowing four runs (three earned) on three walks and seven hits over six innings, striking out five. Two of the hits went for solo homers. It was the second straight game the O's lost after getting a quality start after going 22-1 in that scenario since the start of the season. The bullpen allowed just one baserunner over the final three frames, but the damage had been done.
Offensively, the O's just couldn't get anything going...the club went 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position and didn't score after the fourth inning. Adam Jones, who just a few hours earlier had agreed to a six-year contract extension, extended his career-best 18-game hitting streak with a double in the fifth inning.
The O's now head out on a nine-game divisional road trip starting in Toronto on Monday night. Tommy Hunter takes the mound for the Birds.
That being said, this was the first time all season that the Birds dropped back-to-back series, which is pretty amazing. The O's finished the homestand with a disappointing 2-4 record but are still tied with the Rays for first in the East.
Brian Matusz pitched a good game, allowing four runs (three earned) on three walks and seven hits over six innings, striking out five. Two of the hits went for solo homers. It was the second straight game the O's lost after getting a quality start after going 22-1 in that scenario since the start of the season. The bullpen allowed just one baserunner over the final three frames, but the damage had been done.
Offensively, the O's just couldn't get anything going...the club went 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position and didn't score after the fourth inning. Adam Jones, who just a few hours earlier had agreed to a six-year contract extension, extended his career-best 18-game hitting streak with a double in the fifth inning.
The O's now head out on a nine-game divisional road trip starting in Toronto on Monday night. Tommy Hunter takes the mound for the Birds.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
A Royal Flush
The O's let one slip away on Saturday afternoon, falling to Kansas City 4-3 in front of nearly 27,000 fans at Camden Yards.
I had just stated in my last post how the Birds were getting all the breaks- Orioles Magic- but things went the Royals' way on Saturday. Most noticeable was a swinging-bunt double in the seventh where the ball hugged the foul line but just wouldn't roll foul. That run came in to score to tie the game. Nick Johnson came a few feet away from giving the O's a 5-4 lead in the eighth with a two-run blast that hooked just foul. It was just one of those games...
The Birds went ahead early, handing Wei-Yin Chen a 3-0 lead in the fourth inning. Chris Davis homered for the second straight game in the second inning, J.J. Hardy led-off the third with a solo shot of his own and Adam Jones extended his hitting streak to 17 games with a triple, coming home on Matt Wieters' sac fly. But the bats went silent over the final six frames.
Chen kept the Royals off the board through four innings before allowing a run in the fifth and another in the sixth. He lasted six innings, allowing just the two runs on six hits and a walk while striking out five. Darren O'Day allowed the tying run to cross in the seventh and Pedro Strop surrendered the eventual winning run in the eighth.
The O's (29-18) stayed a full game ahead of the Rays after they fell to Boston on Saturday night. Before the game on Sunday, the O's are set to announce the contract extension of Adam Jones- six years for $85.5 million. Brian Matusz looks for his fifth win in May after the mega-deal is announced.
I had just stated in my last post how the Birds were getting all the breaks- Orioles Magic- but things went the Royals' way on Saturday. Most noticeable was a swinging-bunt double in the seventh where the ball hugged the foul line but just wouldn't roll foul. That run came in to score to tie the game. Nick Johnson came a few feet away from giving the O's a 5-4 lead in the eighth with a two-run blast that hooked just foul. It was just one of those games...
The Birds went ahead early, handing Wei-Yin Chen a 3-0 lead in the fourth inning. Chris Davis homered for the second straight game in the second inning, J.J. Hardy led-off the third with a solo shot of his own and Adam Jones extended his hitting streak to 17 games with a triple, coming home on Matt Wieters' sac fly. But the bats went silent over the final six frames.
Chen kept the Royals off the board through four innings before allowing a run in the fifth and another in the sixth. He lasted six innings, allowing just the two runs on six hits and a walk while striking out five. Darren O'Day allowed the tying run to cross in the seventh and Pedro Strop surrendered the eventual winning run in the eighth.
The O's (29-18) stayed a full game ahead of the Rays after they fell to Boston on Saturday night. Before the game on Sunday, the O's are set to announce the contract extension of Adam Jones- six years for $85.5 million. Brian Matusz looks for his fifth win in May after the mega-deal is announced.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Hammel Out-Duels "Old" Chen
Remember Bruce Chen? The old O's lefty was going for his fourth straight win on Friday night...unfortunately for him, his club was facing Jason Hammel and the Orioles, and the Birds spanked the Royals 8-2 in front of nearly 30,000 fans at Camden Yards.
Hammel (6-1) went six strong innings, shutting out Kansas City on just five hits and a walk while fanning seven. Stu Pomeranz, fresh from Triple-A Norfolk, went two innings in relief but lost the shutout after surrendering a two-out homer in the eighth. Dana Eveland pitched a scoreless ninth.
The O's struck first, scoring on a sac fly off the bat of Adam Jones, but left the bases loaded in the first with just a 1-0 lead. But the bats came to life in a big five-run fifth...Xavier Avery led off with a walk, then stole second although Chen had him picked off (this kid is FAST). Robert Andino laid down a perfect sac bunt that turned into an infield single, and then promptly stole second. Chen had Andino picked off as well, but he hustled and slid in under the tag...instead of none on with two outs, the Birds had runners at second and third with no one down. If you haven't accepted that some Orioles' Magic is in the air this season, you really should! The Birds used two doubles, two singles and another stolen base to chase Chen from the game and take a commanding 6-0 lead. Chris Davis added another pair of runs with a two-run bomb in the seventh.
The O's (29-17) still hold the best record in the AL and maintained a one-game lead over the Rays in the East. The Birds send their own Chen (Wei-Yin) to the mound on Saturday afternoon...
Hammel (6-1) went six strong innings, shutting out Kansas City on just five hits and a walk while fanning seven. Stu Pomeranz, fresh from Triple-A Norfolk, went two innings in relief but lost the shutout after surrendering a two-out homer in the eighth. Dana Eveland pitched a scoreless ninth.
The O's struck first, scoring on a sac fly off the bat of Adam Jones, but left the bases loaded in the first with just a 1-0 lead. But the bats came to life in a big five-run fifth...Xavier Avery led off with a walk, then stole second although Chen had him picked off (this kid is FAST). Robert Andino laid down a perfect sac bunt that turned into an infield single, and then promptly stole second. Chen had Andino picked off as well, but he hustled and slid in under the tag...instead of none on with two outs, the Birds had runners at second and third with no one down. If you haven't accepted that some Orioles' Magic is in the air this season, you really should! The Birds used two doubles, two singles and another stolen base to chase Chen from the game and take a commanding 6-0 lead. Chris Davis added another pair of runs with a two-run bomb in the seventh.
The O's (29-17) still hold the best record in the AL and maintained a one-game lead over the Rays in the East. The Birds send their own Chen (Wei-Yin) to the mound on Saturday afternoon...
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Arrieta Struggles As Birds Fall To BoSox
Finally...a day off. It would have been a little sweeter with a series win over Boston, but the O's will have to settle for one-of-three after a 6-5 loss on Wednesday afternoon.
It certainly isn't easy to take four straight series against the Sox...the Birds hadn't accomplished the feat since 1960. But they were "O" so close...
The game see-sawed throughout: the O's went up 1-0, the Sox tied it, the Birds took a 2-1 lead before Boston tied it again. The Red Sox took a 5-3 lead in the bottom of the sixth but Nick Johnson's second homer of the day, a two-run blast, put the O's within a run in the bottom of the frame. Down 6-4, the O's had runners at second and third with none out in the eighth but managed only a run on a sac fly.
Jake Arrieta (2-5) took the loss and was charged with four runs on eight hits and three walks in 5 2/3 innings of work.
The O's (28-17) are still in first and went 12-8 over the last 20-game stretch. They finally get a day of rest before sending Jason Hammel to the mound Friday night to kick-off a three-game set against the Royals.
It certainly isn't easy to take four straight series against the Sox...the Birds hadn't accomplished the feat since 1960. But they were "O" so close...
The game see-sawed throughout: the O's went up 1-0, the Sox tied it, the Birds took a 2-1 lead before Boston tied it again. The Red Sox took a 5-3 lead in the bottom of the sixth but Nick Johnson's second homer of the day, a two-run blast, put the O's within a run in the bottom of the frame. Down 6-4, the O's had runners at second and third with none out in the eighth but managed only a run on a sac fly.
Jake Arrieta (2-5) took the loss and was charged with four runs on eight hits and three walks in 5 2/3 innings of work.
The O's (28-17) are still in first and went 12-8 over the last 20-game stretch. They finally get a day of rest before sending Jason Hammel to the mound Friday night to kick-off a three-game set against the Royals.
Matusz Magnificent As O's Roll
Brian Matusz seems to have returned to form over his past few starts, and Tuesday night was no exception. Matusz turned in a gem in the O's 4-1 victory over Boston at Camden Yards.
Matusz evened his record to 4-4 on the season and exited to a standing ovation in the seventh after allowing just one run on two hits and a walk over 6 1/3 frames, fanning a career-best nine batters. Darren O'Day, Pedro Strop and Jim Johnson held the Sox hitless over the final 2 2/3 innings. Johnson picked up his 16th save in as many tries this season, retiring the heart of the order on eight pitches in the ninth.
Third baseman Steve Tolleson gave Matusz an early lead with a two-run bomb in the second, his first as an Oriole and first in nearly two years. Wilson Betemit blasted a two-run shot in the eighth to give Johnson some breathing room...
The O's and Sox face-off once more on Thursday afternoon; with a win, the Birds would take four straight series against Boston for the first time since 1960. Jake Arrieta takes the mound for the O's...
Matusz evened his record to 4-4 on the season and exited to a standing ovation in the seventh after allowing just one run on two hits and a walk over 6 1/3 frames, fanning a career-best nine batters. Darren O'Day, Pedro Strop and Jim Johnson held the Sox hitless over the final 2 2/3 innings. Johnson picked up his 16th save in as many tries this season, retiring the heart of the order on eight pitches in the ninth.
Third baseman Steve Tolleson gave Matusz an early lead with a two-run bomb in the second, his first as an Oriole and first in nearly two years. Wilson Betemit blasted a two-run shot in the eighth to give Johnson some breathing room...
The O's and Sox face-off once more on Thursday afternoon; with a win, the Birds would take four straight series against Boston for the first time since 1960. Jake Arrieta takes the mound for the O's...
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
O's Drop Second Straight
The Birds rallied but eventually fell to Boston 8-6 at Camden Yards on Monday night.
Tommy Hunter was given a three-run lead but gave it right back, allowing the tying run to cross the plate on a balk in the sixth inning. Hunter allowed five runs on nine hits in six innings, walking none and fanning three. Kevin Gregg came on in the seventh and was tagged with the loss after allowing two runs on three hits and a walk.
The Birds showed patience at the plate in the third inning against a struggling Clay Buchholz, who walked in two runs with the bases loaded. Chris Davis slapped a solo homer in the fourth to give the O's a 5-2 lead. But the Sox rallied, and the O's didn't score again until the eighth. They had a chance to tie or take the lead with only one out and runners on second and third, but Wilson Betemit popped-out and Nick Johnson struck out swinging to end the threat.
The O's (27-16) still hold sole possession of first in the division while Boston (21-21) is tied with New York for last. The two clubs go at it again later tonight; Brian Matusz takes the mound for the Birds.
Tommy Hunter was given a three-run lead but gave it right back, allowing the tying run to cross the plate on a balk in the sixth inning. Hunter allowed five runs on nine hits in six innings, walking none and fanning three. Kevin Gregg came on in the seventh and was tagged with the loss after allowing two runs on three hits and a walk.
The Birds showed patience at the plate in the third inning against a struggling Clay Buchholz, who walked in two runs with the bases loaded. Chris Davis slapped a solo homer in the fourth to give the O's a 5-2 lead. But the Sox rallied, and the O's didn't score again until the eighth. They had a chance to tie or take the lead with only one out and runners on second and third, but Wilson Betemit popped-out and Nick Johnson struck out swinging to end the threat.
The O's (27-16) still hold sole possession of first in the division while Boston (21-21) is tied with New York for last. The two clubs go at it again later tonight; Brian Matusz takes the mound for the Birds.
Monday, May 21, 2012
O's Fall To Nats In Finale
The streak had to end sometime. You can't win em' all, as the old saying goes. The O's lost on the road for the first time in their last ten tries and saw a five-game winning streak snapped after falling to the nationals 9-3 on Sunday afternoon.
The sad part is that everything went right for the Birds early on. They took a 3-0 lead after two innings and it seemed like they would cruise behind starter Wei-Yin Chen. But baseball is a funny game, and the Nats surged back, scoring nine unanswered runs. The Orioles were held hitless from the third inning until the ninth while the Nationals feasted on Chen and the 'pen.
Chen (4-1) turned in his worst performance of the season, allowing six runs on eight hits and three walks in just 4 1/3 innings. He allowed back-to-back solo homers in the fourth, including Washington's starter Stephen Strasburg's first Major League long-ball.
The Birds went 4-1 on the road trip and now head home for a week. Every other team in the East besides Boston lost, so the O's really didn't lose any ground in the standings and still lead the Rays by two full games. Tommy Hunter takes the mound on Monday night as the Birds welcome the Red Sox to Camden Yards for a three-game set.
The sad part is that everything went right for the Birds early on. They took a 3-0 lead after two innings and it seemed like they would cruise behind starter Wei-Yin Chen. But baseball is a funny game, and the Nats surged back, scoring nine unanswered runs. The Orioles were held hitless from the third inning until the ninth while the Nationals feasted on Chen and the 'pen.
Chen (4-1) turned in his worst performance of the season, allowing six runs on eight hits and three walks in just 4 1/3 innings. He allowed back-to-back solo homers in the fourth, including Washington's starter Stephen Strasburg's first Major League long-ball.
The Birds went 4-1 on the road trip and now head home for a week. Every other team in the East besides Boston lost, so the O's really didn't lose any ground in the standings and still lead the Rays by two full games. Tommy Hunter takes the mound on Monday night as the Birds welcome the Red Sox to Camden Yards for a three-game set.
O's Swat Nats Away
The O's just keep amazing me (and the rest of the world). In a nationally televised game on Saturday night, the Birds took down the Nationals 6-5 in front of a full house in Washington, D.C.
It was a blowout early on, as the O's took an early 6-0 lead before the Nats came charging back. Robert Andino drove in two with a single in the second, Adam Jones cranked his team-leading 14th homer in the third and Nick Markakis launched a two-run bomb in the fifth.
Starter Jason Hammel was lights-out until running into big trouble in the sixth. Hammel (5-1) got the win but was charged with four runs on six hits and two walks in just 5 1/3 frames. The bullpen didn't allow a run until Jim Johnson served up a solo homer in the ninth, but J.J. shut the door and picked up his 15th save in 15 chances this season.
The O's (27-14) have won five straight and nine in a row on the road. The club sends Wei-Ying Chen to the mound on Sunday afternoon and look for the sweep.
It was a blowout early on, as the O's took an early 6-0 lead before the Nats came charging back. Robert Andino drove in two with a single in the second, Adam Jones cranked his team-leading 14th homer in the third and Nick Markakis launched a two-run bomb in the fifth.
Starter Jason Hammel was lights-out until running into big trouble in the sixth. Hammel (5-1) got the win but was charged with four runs on six hits and two walks in just 5 1/3 frames. The bullpen didn't allow a run until Jim Johnson served up a solo homer in the ninth, but J.J. shut the door and picked up his 15th save in 15 chances this season.
The O's (27-14) have won five straight and nine in a row on the road. The club sends Wei-Ying Chen to the mound on Sunday afternoon and look for the sweep.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
O's Top Nats In 11
The O's went into extra innings, on the road, and won...again. Nick Markakis' solo homer in the top of the 11th lifted the Birds to a 2-1 victory over the Nationals on Friday night.
The Birds scored in the first inning before being shut down until the 11th. The Nationals scored their lone run on a solo homer off starter Jake Arrieta in the sixth.
That was Jake's lone mistake, as he went seven strong innings, allowing just six hits and a walk while striking out nine. The bullpen continued to impress, with four relievers tossing four one-hit innings. Pedro Strop allowed that hit in the bottom of the 11th but escaped the jam to pick up his third save of the season.
The O's (26-14) have now played 40 games, and eight have gone to extras (20%). They have won six of those contests (both losses came against the Yankees). The Birds are 12 games over .500 and have now won eight straight on the road...
The O's look to take the Beltway Series with a win on Saturday night...Jason Hammel takes the mound.
The Birds scored in the first inning before being shut down until the 11th. The Nationals scored their lone run on a solo homer off starter Jake Arrieta in the sixth.
That was Jake's lone mistake, as he went seven strong innings, allowing just six hits and a walk while striking out nine. The bullpen continued to impress, with four relievers tossing four one-hit innings. Pedro Strop allowed that hit in the bottom of the 11th but escaped the jam to pick up his third save of the season.
The O's (26-14) have now played 40 games, and eight have gone to extras (20%). They have won six of those contests (both losses came against the Yankees). The Birds are 12 games over .500 and have now won eight straight on the road...
The O's look to take the Beltway Series with a win on Saturday night...Jason Hammel takes the mound.
Friday, May 18, 2012
O's Complete Two-Game Road Sweep
The best team in baseball? The Baltimore Orioles. That's right...after Thursday's 5-3 win over the Royals, the O's (25-14) own the best record in the Majors and are 11 games over .500 for the first time since 2005.
It's simply incredible to watch. This team is never out of any game...on Thursday afternoon, starter Brian Matusz retired the first six batters he faced before giving up three runs in the third inning. Three runs? No worries...
Adam Jones trimmed the deficit to just a run with a two-run bomb in the fourth, his 13th long ball of the year and second in as many games. J.J. Hardy's bases-loaded, two-out two-run single in the seventh put the Birds ahead for good.
Matusz picked up his third win of the season, and Jim Johnson recorded his 14th save in as many tries...this team is clicking in all facets of the game right now (defensively, they need some work but at this point I'm not going to complain!).
The first-place O's head home (sort of) to take on the Washington Nationals in D.C. over the weekend. Jake Arrieta takes the mound on Friday night.
It's simply incredible to watch. This team is never out of any game...on Thursday afternoon, starter Brian Matusz retired the first six batters he faced before giving up three runs in the third inning. Three runs? No worries...
Adam Jones trimmed the deficit to just a run with a two-run bomb in the fourth, his 13th long ball of the year and second in as many games. J.J. Hardy's bases-loaded, two-out two-run single in the seventh put the Birds ahead for good.
Matusz picked up his third win of the season, and Jim Johnson recorded his 14th save in as many tries...this team is clicking in all facets of the game right now (defensively, they need some work but at this point I'm not going to complain!).
The first-place O's head home (sort of) to take on the Washington Nationals in D.C. over the weekend. Jake Arrieta takes the mound on Friday night.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Jones' Jack In 15th Wins It
How many extra-inning games can one team play? The O's must be looking to set another record after going into extras for the seventh time this season on Wednesday night, eventually beating the Royals 4-3 in 15 innings. Nearly 20% of the Birds' games this season were decided in extra innings...
It was quite a comeback. Down 2-0, the O's scored in the eighth to make it a one-run game, but Kansas City answered with an insurance run in the bottom of the frame. Wilson Betemit homered in the ninth to again trim the Royals' lead to one, and J.J. Hardy tied the game with an RBI single. Orioles Magic.
At that point it all boiled down to a battle of the bullpens, and it was the O's that came out on top. Dana Eveland came on in the tenth and pitched three scoreless innings before yielding to Kevin Gregg, who pitched another two scoreless frames and eventually got the "W". Adam Jones launched a solo shot, his 12th of the season, in the top of the 15th to give the O's their first lead of the game, and Jim Johnson came on in the bottom half of the inning to notch his 13th save of the year.
Brian Matusz takes the mound Thursday afternoon as the O's look for a two-game sweep in Kansas City.
It was quite a comeback. Down 2-0, the O's scored in the eighth to make it a one-run game, but Kansas City answered with an insurance run in the bottom of the frame. Wilson Betemit homered in the ninth to again trim the Royals' lead to one, and J.J. Hardy tied the game with an RBI single. Orioles Magic.
At that point it all boiled down to a battle of the bullpens, and it was the O's that came out on top. Dana Eveland came on in the tenth and pitched three scoreless innings before yielding to Kevin Gregg, who pitched another two scoreless frames and eventually got the "W". Adam Jones launched a solo shot, his 12th of the season, in the top of the 15th to give the O's their first lead of the game, and Jim Johnson came on in the bottom half of the inning to notch his 13th save of the year.
Brian Matusz takes the mound Thursday afternoon as the O's look for a two-game sweep in Kansas City.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Chen Leads O's To Series Split
The O's managed a series split with the Yankees after a 5-2 win over New York on Tuesday night.
Starter Wei-Yin Chen improved to 4-0 on the season and exited in the eighth to a standing ovation after shutting down a potent Yankee lineup. Chen went seven innings, allowing just two runs on four hits and two walks, striking out four. The runs came off a bomb from Curtis Granderson, which barely cleared the fence. A Yankee fan reached out and caught the ball, but as happened once before, there was no fan interference called.
Pedro Strop walked two in the eighth but got out of the inning, and Jim Johnson picked up his 12th save in as many attempts this season. The O's turned three double plays, two in the final two frames.
Adam Jones started the scoring with a solo homer in the second inning, his eleventh of the season. J.J. Hardy continued to punish the ball, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs.
The O's have finally finished the grueling 15-game series that began with series in New York and Boston, and concluded with home games against Texas, Tampa and the Yankees again. The so-called experts said the Birds would come down to earth after this stretch. Skeptics that wanted to believe pointed to this as the make-it-or-break-it point of the season. The O's came out of it winning 9 of 16 and remain in a first-place tie with the Rays.
Tommy Hunter takes the mound on Wednesday night as the Birds begin a five-game roadtrip, beginning with two games in Kansas City.
Starter Wei-Yin Chen improved to 4-0 on the season and exited in the eighth to a standing ovation after shutting down a potent Yankee lineup. Chen went seven innings, allowing just two runs on four hits and two walks, striking out four. The runs came off a bomb from Curtis Granderson, which barely cleared the fence. A Yankee fan reached out and caught the ball, but as happened once before, there was no fan interference called.
Pedro Strop walked two in the eighth but got out of the inning, and Jim Johnson picked up his 12th save in as many attempts this season. The O's turned three double plays, two in the final two frames.
Adam Jones started the scoring with a solo homer in the second inning, his eleventh of the season. J.J. Hardy continued to punish the ball, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs.
The O's have finally finished the grueling 15-game series that began with series in New York and Boston, and concluded with home games against Texas, Tampa and the Yankees again. The so-called experts said the Birds would come down to earth after this stretch. Skeptics that wanted to believe pointed to this as the make-it-or-break-it point of the season. The O's came out of it winning 9 of 16 and remain in a first-place tie with the Rays.
Tommy Hunter takes the mound on Wednesday night as the Birds begin a five-game roadtrip, beginning with two games in Kansas City.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Birds Let One Slip Away
On a wet and dreary Monday in Baltimore, the O's let an early lead slip away in an 8-5 loss to the Yankees.
Jason Hammel looked sharp early, allowing just two hits through the first three frames, but was charged with five runs on seven hits in just five innings of work, his shortest outing as an Oriole. The bullpen allowed another three runs over the final four innings.
The Birds scored twice in the first to take the early lead, and after New York took a 3-2 lead in the fifth, the Birds came right back and scored another three times to reclaim the lead. Xavier Avery, in just his second game, doubled and tripled and notched his first Major League RBI. J.J. Hardy launched his ninth homer of the season. But it wasn't enough, and the offense went silent after the three-run fifth. Meanwhile, the Yankees went on to score five unanswered runs.
With the loss, the O's (22-14) fell into a tie for first with the Rays. The Yankees are just a game and a half back. The two clubs wrap-up the short series later tonight...Wei-Yin Chen takes on CC Sabathia.
Jason Hammel looked sharp early, allowing just two hits through the first three frames, but was charged with five runs on seven hits in just five innings of work, his shortest outing as an Oriole. The bullpen allowed another three runs over the final four innings.
The Birds scored twice in the first to take the early lead, and after New York took a 3-2 lead in the fifth, the Birds came right back and scored another three times to reclaim the lead. Xavier Avery, in just his second game, doubled and tripled and notched his first Major League RBI. J.J. Hardy launched his ninth homer of the season. But it wasn't enough, and the offense went silent after the three-run fifth. Meanwhile, the Yankees went on to score five unanswered runs.
With the loss, the O's (22-14) fell into a tie for first with the Rays. The Yankees are just a game and a half back. The two clubs wrap-up the short series later tonight...Wei-Yin Chen takes on CC Sabathia.
Monday, May 14, 2012
O's Fall Just Short
These Orioles have heart...they battled back and fell just short in a 9-8 loss to the Rays on Sunday afternoon.
Down 7-1 in the third inning, the Birds were a timely hit away from a walk-off win in the ninth inning. With one run already in and runners on second and third, Matt Wieters grounded out to end the threat, and the comeback attempt. But the O's were never out of this game, which had "blowout" written all over it early on...
Jake Arrieta turned in the worst performance of his career, allowing seven runs on ten hits and two walks in just 3 2/3 innings. The 'pen bailed Jake out, keeping the Rays off the board until Troy Patton surrendered back-to-back solo homers in the eighth. Those were the only hits Patton allowed over three innings of work, but it proved to be too much to overcome.
The Birds still took two of three from the Rays and are ahead of them in the standings by a full game. The Yankees come to town for a two-game set before the O's hit the road again...Jason Hammel takes the mound on Monday night.
Down 7-1 in the third inning, the Birds were a timely hit away from a walk-off win in the ninth inning. With one run already in and runners on second and third, Matt Wieters grounded out to end the threat, and the comeback attempt. But the O's were never out of this game, which had "blowout" written all over it early on...
Jake Arrieta turned in the worst performance of his career, allowing seven runs on ten hits and two walks in just 3 2/3 innings. The 'pen bailed Jake out, keeping the Rays off the board until Troy Patton surrendered back-to-back solo homers in the eighth. Those were the only hits Patton allowed over three innings of work, but it proved to be too much to overcome.
The Birds still took two of three from the Rays and are ahead of them in the standings by a full game. The Yankees come to town for a two-game set before the O's hit the road again...Jason Hammel takes the mound on Monday night.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Matusz Victorious As O's Topple Tampa
The Orioles guaranteed a winning series against their divisional foes with a 5-3 victory over the Rays on Saturday night at Camden Yards.
Brian Matusz eclipsed last year's total with his second win of the season. Matusz (2-4) surrendered a solo homer in the second inning but then cruised until running into trouble in the sixth. He was charged with three runs (two earned) on seven hits and a walk in 5 2/3 innings, striking out five. The bullpen was once again simply spectacular, keeping the Rays off the bases over the final three frames. The 'pen has now retired 19 straight in this series...incredible.
The O's took advantage of five errors, scoring two unearned runs in the second. They scored two more on Adam Jones' single in the fifth, and added an insurance run in the eighth. Bill Hall, called up from Norfolk with Mark Reynolds hitting the DL, homered for the first time since last May and got the obligatory shaving cream pie to the face after the game...
The Birds (22-12) are now two full games ahead of the Rays in the division and look for the sweep this afternoon...Jake Arrieta takes the mound for the O's.
Brian Matusz eclipsed last year's total with his second win of the season. Matusz (2-4) surrendered a solo homer in the second inning but then cruised until running into trouble in the sixth. He was charged with three runs (two earned) on seven hits and a walk in 5 2/3 innings, striking out five. The bullpen was once again simply spectacular, keeping the Rays off the bases over the final three frames. The 'pen has now retired 19 straight in this series...incredible.
The O's took advantage of five errors, scoring two unearned runs in the second. They scored two more on Adam Jones' single in the fifth, and added an insurance run in the eighth. Bill Hall, called up from Norfolk with Mark Reynolds hitting the DL, homered for the first time since last May and got the obligatory shaving cream pie to the face after the game...
The Birds (22-12) are now two full games ahead of the Rays in the division and look for the sweep this afternoon...Jake Arrieta takes the mound for the O's.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
O's Alone In First After Downing Rays
The Orioles claimed sole possession of first place in the East after taking down Tampa 4-3 on Friday night at Camden Yards.
I'll say this about these O's...they can hit homers. Lots of them. The Birds slapped another three dingers and lead all of baseball with 53 round-trippers this season. All four runs came via the long-ball on Friday night.
Adam Jones started things off with a solo homer in the second, his tenth of the year. Nick Markakis slapped his sixth of the season in the sixth inning, and Nick Johnson launched a two-run blast, his first as an Oriole, to give the Birds the lead in the seventh.
Dana Eveland, making his first start of the season, was shaky but managed to keep the O's in the game, and the bullpen was lights-out. Eveland allowed three runs on five hits and six walks over six innings. He struck out two and hit two batters, one with the bases loaded. But he managed to hold Tampa to just the three runs, giving the offense a chance to come back.
Eveland had a little defensive help, as well. The play of the game had to be a play at the plate in the fourth...Matt Wieters took a jarring hit but came up with the ball in his glove, denying the Rays a run and minimizing the damage in the inning.
The bullpen was spectacular as well...Darren O'Day and Pedro Strop needed just six pitches each to get through the seventh and eighth innings, and Jim Johnson needed just eight pitches in the ninth en route to his tenth save in as many tries this season.
The O's (21-12) and Rays (20-13) go at it again Saturday night...Brian Matusz takes the mound for the Birds.
I'll say this about these O's...they can hit homers. Lots of them. The Birds slapped another three dingers and lead all of baseball with 53 round-trippers this season. All four runs came via the long-ball on Friday night.
Adam Jones started things off with a solo homer in the second, his tenth of the year. Nick Markakis slapped his sixth of the season in the sixth inning, and Nick Johnson launched a two-run blast, his first as an Oriole, to give the Birds the lead in the seventh.
Dana Eveland, making his first start of the season, was shaky but managed to keep the O's in the game, and the bullpen was lights-out. Eveland allowed three runs on five hits and six walks over six innings. He struck out two and hit two batters, one with the bases loaded. But he managed to hold Tampa to just the three runs, giving the offense a chance to come back.
Eveland had a little defensive help, as well. The play of the game had to be a play at the plate in the fourth...Matt Wieters took a jarring hit but came up with the ball in his glove, denying the Rays a run and minimizing the damage in the inning.
The bullpen was spectacular as well...Darren O'Day and Pedro Strop needed just six pitches each to get through the seventh and eighth innings, and Jim Johnson needed just eight pitches in the ninth en route to his tenth save in as many tries this season.
The O's (21-12) and Rays (20-13) go at it again Saturday night...Brian Matusz takes the mound for the Birds.
Friday, May 11, 2012
Birds Split Doubleheader, Drop Series
The O's just couldn't keep pace with the Texas Rangers, falling 7-3 in Game Two of a doubleheader on Thursday at Camden Yards.
Tommy Hunter, pitching on just three days rest, looked pretty good against his former club but was tagged with the loss. Hunter (2-2) gave up a two-run bomb to Josh Hamilton in the first inning but settled down after that (Hamilton finished the four-game series with six homers). Hunter went six innings, allowing four runs on five hits and a walk, striking out seven.
All three of the O's runs came in a sloppy second inning...Texas committed three errors and all three runs were unearned. Had the Rangers played a clean game the Birds could have been kept off the board all together. The O's managed just five hits, but unlike Game One, where every hit left the Yard, all five hits went for singles.
The Orioles are still 20-12 and tied for first with the Rays, who are in town for a three-game set starting Friday night. Dana Eveland will get his first start as an Oriole as the two clubs battle for first in the division.
Tommy Hunter, pitching on just three days rest, looked pretty good against his former club but was tagged with the loss. Hunter (2-2) gave up a two-run bomb to Josh Hamilton in the first inning but settled down after that (Hamilton finished the four-game series with six homers). Hunter went six innings, allowing four runs on five hits and a walk, striking out seven.
All three of the O's runs came in a sloppy second inning...Texas committed three errors and all three runs were unearned. Had the Rangers played a clean game the Birds could have been kept off the board all together. The O's managed just five hits, but unlike Game One, where every hit left the Yard, all five hits went for singles.
The Orioles are still 20-12 and tied for first with the Rays, who are in town for a three-game set starting Friday night. Dana Eveland will get his first start as an Oriole as the two clubs battle for first in the division.
Homers Lift Birds Over Rangers
This season has been pretty adventurous, and Thursday was no exception. The O's beat the Texas Rangers 6-5 in Game One of a doubleheader, and it took just eight pitches for history to be made...
The Birds hit back-to-back-to-back jacks in the first inning, the first time the feat has been accomplished in the AL, and only the fourth time it has happened in the Majors. Ryan Flaherty led-off with his first career homer, followed by long-balls from J.J. Hardy and Nick Markakis.
Adam Jones launched yet another solo shot in the seventh, his team-best ninth of the season. After Matt Wieters walked, Wilson Betemit crushed a two-run bomb to give the Birds a 6-1 lead. The O's managed just five hits all game, but all five cleared the fence...
Wei-Yin Chen (3-0) allowed just two runs on six hits over 7 2/3 innings, walking one and fanning five. Jim Johnson surrendered a three-run blast in the ninth but held on to pick up his ninth save in as many attempts.
The O's send Tommy Hunter to the mound for Game Two of the doubleheader; a win would give the Birds a split with Texas.
The Birds hit back-to-back-to-back jacks in the first inning, the first time the feat has been accomplished in the AL, and only the fourth time it has happened in the Majors. Ryan Flaherty led-off with his first career homer, followed by long-balls from J.J. Hardy and Nick Markakis.
Adam Jones launched yet another solo shot in the seventh, his team-best ninth of the season. After Matt Wieters walked, Wilson Betemit crushed a two-run bomb to give the Birds a 6-1 lead. The O's managed just five hits all game, but all five cleared the fence...
Wei-Yin Chen (3-0) allowed just two runs on six hits over 7 2/3 innings, walking one and fanning five. Jim Johnson surrendered a three-run blast in the ninth but held on to pick up his ninth save in as many attempts.
The O's send Tommy Hunter to the mound for Game Two of the doubleheader; a win would give the Birds a split with Texas.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
O's Can't Stop Josh Hamilton
Josh Hamilton went 5-for-5 with a double and four home runs, knocking in eight as the Rangers pummeled the O's 10-3 on Tuesday night.
Yup. The four long balls in a game are the most by a player since 2003, and Hamilton's 18 total bases set an AL record. Simply put, it was a bit embarrassing.
Jake Arrieta became the latest starter to turn in their worst start of the season after turning in their best the start before. After shutting out the Yankees over eight innings without surrendering a single walk, Arrieta walked the second Ranger he faced before serving up Hamilton's first long ball. Arrieta (2-3) settled in and went 6 1/3 innings but was charged with six runs on nine hits and a walk, striking out three. He allowed three homers, two coming off Hamilton's bat.
Hamilton ended up going deep against each pitcher he faced. Lefty Troy Patton pitched a scoreless ninth, but he didn't have to face the slugger...
Nick Markakis broke out of his slump, going 3-for-5 with two RBIs and a solo home run. J.J. Hardy went 2-for-4 with a solo homer, as he continues to swing a hot bat as of late.
Texas has now outscored the Birds 24-6 over the past two games. Let's hope the O's can take the next two games and split the series...Wei-Yin Chen takes the mound on Wednesday night. Let's Go O's!
Yup. The four long balls in a game are the most by a player since 2003, and Hamilton's 18 total bases set an AL record. Simply put, it was a bit embarrassing.
Jake Arrieta became the latest starter to turn in their worst start of the season after turning in their best the start before. After shutting out the Yankees over eight innings without surrendering a single walk, Arrieta walked the second Ranger he faced before serving up Hamilton's first long ball. Arrieta (2-3) settled in and went 6 1/3 innings but was charged with six runs on nine hits and a walk, striking out three. He allowed three homers, two coming off Hamilton's bat.
Hamilton ended up going deep against each pitcher he faced. Lefty Troy Patton pitched a scoreless ninth, but he didn't have to face the slugger...
Nick Markakis broke out of his slump, going 3-for-5 with two RBIs and a solo home run. J.J. Hardy went 2-for-4 with a solo homer, as he continues to swing a hot bat as of late.
Texas has now outscored the Birds 24-6 over the past two games. Let's hope the O's can take the next two games and split the series...Wei-Yin Chen takes the mound on Wednesday night. Let's Go O's!
Birds Blown Out By Texas
The O's five-game winning streak was snapped Monday night with a deflating 14-3 loss to the Texas Rangers at Camden Yards.
Fresh off his best start of the season, Brian Matusz (1-4) turned in his worst performance of the year, allowing seven runs on ten hits and two walks in just five innings of work while fanning four. Jason Berken allowed another seven runs (only two earned thanks to Mark Reynolds' sixth error) in the ninth inning. The lone bright spot? Stu Pomeranz, making his MLB debut, held the potent Rangers offense scoreless over three innings of work, allowing just three hits and a walk while striking out two.
Robert Andino put the Birds on the board in the sixth with a solo homer, his second in as many games, and Wilson Betemit followed with a two-run blast in the seventh. That was all the O's could manage, as they finished with just six hits, three coming off the bat of J.J. Hardy.
The O's (19-10) are now tied with Tampa Bay for first in the division and are in a three-way tie with the Rays and Rangers for best record in the Majors. The Birds and Rangers go at it again Tuesday night...Jake Arrieta is slated to take the mound.
Fresh off his best start of the season, Brian Matusz (1-4) turned in his worst performance of the year, allowing seven runs on ten hits and two walks in just five innings of work while fanning four. Jason Berken allowed another seven runs (only two earned thanks to Mark Reynolds' sixth error) in the ninth inning. The lone bright spot? Stu Pomeranz, making his MLB debut, held the potent Rangers offense scoreless over three innings of work, allowing just three hits and a walk while striking out two.
Robert Andino put the Birds on the board in the sixth with a solo homer, his second in as many games, and Wilson Betemit followed with a two-run blast in the seventh. That was all the O's could manage, as they finished with just six hits, three coming off the bat of J.J. Hardy.
The O's (19-10) are now tied with Tampa Bay for first in the division and are in a three-way tie with the Rays and Rangers for best record in the Majors. The Birds and Rangers go at it again Tuesday night...Jake Arrieta is slated to take the mound.
O's Sweep Sox After Wacky 17-Inning Win
It took 39 innings for the O's to complete their first three-game sweep in Boston since 1984. No wonder it doesn't happen very often...
On Sunday, it took 17 innings and just over six hours for the Birds to finally topple the Sox 9-6. And it was Chris Davis, the O's first baseman, who was credited with the win. It was probably the craziest game I have EVER seen...
The O's handed starter Tommy Hunter an early 5-0 lead: J.J. Hardy launched two solo homers and Robert Andino smacked his second of the season, a three-run shot in the fourth. But Hunter fell apart and surrendered five runs in the bottom of the frame, exiting after just 4 1/3 innings. The O's went ahead again in the eighth but the 'pen allowed Boston to tie it up yet again in the bottom half of the frame. Neither team scored again until the 17th inning, when Adam Jones launched his team-leading eighth homer over the Green Monster.
Both clubs ran out of arms in the bullpen as the game went on, forcing their respective skippers to use a position player on the mound. Buck Showalter turned to Chris Davis, who was the DH and had gone 0-for-8 with five strikeouts at the plate. Davis went from goat to hero, tossing two scoreless innings in relief, allowing just two hits and a walk while striking out two. Seriously.
With the win, the O's (19-9) took sole possession of first in the division as well as the best record in the Majors. The club went 5-1 over the road trip through New York and Boston, and return home for a nine-game homestand starting Monday night against the Texas Rangers.
On Sunday, it took 17 innings and just over six hours for the Birds to finally topple the Sox 9-6. And it was Chris Davis, the O's first baseman, who was credited with the win. It was probably the craziest game I have EVER seen...
The O's handed starter Tommy Hunter an early 5-0 lead: J.J. Hardy launched two solo homers and Robert Andino smacked his second of the season, a three-run shot in the fourth. But Hunter fell apart and surrendered five runs in the bottom of the frame, exiting after just 4 1/3 innings. The O's went ahead again in the eighth but the 'pen allowed Boston to tie it up yet again in the bottom half of the frame. Neither team scored again until the 17th inning, when Adam Jones launched his team-leading eighth homer over the Green Monster.
Both clubs ran out of arms in the bullpen as the game went on, forcing their respective skippers to use a position player on the mound. Buck Showalter turned to Chris Davis, who was the DH and had gone 0-for-8 with five strikeouts at the plate. Davis went from goat to hero, tossing two scoreless innings in relief, allowing just two hits and a walk while striking out two. Seriously.
With the win, the O's (19-9) took sole possession of first in the division as well as the best record in the Majors. The club went 5-1 over the road trip through New York and Boston, and return home for a nine-game homestand starting Monday night against the Texas Rangers.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Birds Rout Sox
Jason Hammel took a shutout into the seventh inning and the offense came to life early as the O's rolled over the Red Sox 8-2 on Saturday afternoon at Fenway Park.
The Birds scored seven runs in the third inning, a season-best, and all came with two outs on the scoreboard. Adam Jones absolutely crushed a ball over the Monster and is now tied with Matt Wieters for the team lead with seven round-trippers, and Mark Reynolds launched a three-run shot to cap-off the inning and give the club an eight run advantage.
It looks like Reynolds is finally back...he's had two homers, two doubles and five RBIs in the past two games. He had no homers and just three RBIs in the month of April.
Hammel (4-1) escaped a jam in the first before holding the Sox without a hit over the next five frames. He entered the seventh with an 8-0 lead but couldn't finish the inning. He went 6 2/3 and tossed a season-high 115 pitches, allowing just two runs on four hits and a walk while fanning eight. The bullpen allowed four hits but blanked Boston over the final 2 1/3 innings.
The O's have now won back-to-back series in New York and Boston for the first time in 20 years, and can sweep the Sox in Fenway for the first time since 1994 with a win on Sunday afternoon. Tommy Hunter takes the mound for the Birds...
The Birds scored seven runs in the third inning, a season-best, and all came with two outs on the scoreboard. Adam Jones absolutely crushed a ball over the Monster and is now tied with Matt Wieters for the team lead with seven round-trippers, and Mark Reynolds launched a three-run shot to cap-off the inning and give the club an eight run advantage.
It looks like Reynolds is finally back...he's had two homers, two doubles and five RBIs in the past two games. He had no homers and just three RBIs in the month of April.
Hammel (4-1) escaped a jam in the first before holding the Sox without a hit over the next five frames. He entered the seventh with an 8-0 lead but couldn't finish the inning. He went 6 2/3 and tossed a season-high 115 pitches, allowing just two runs on four hits and a walk while fanning eight. The bullpen allowed four hits but blanked Boston over the final 2 1/3 innings.
The O's have now won back-to-back series in New York and Boston for the first time in 20 years, and can sweep the Sox in Fenway for the first time since 1994 with a win on Sunday afternoon. Tommy Hunter takes the mound for the Birds...
Saturday, May 5, 2012
O's Topple BoSox In 13
The magic continues...
The O's took down the Red Sox 6-4 in 13 innings on Friday night at Fenway Park.
In a battle of the bullpens, the Birds came out on top, as five relievers combined for eight shut-out innings. Starter Wei-Yin Chen was charged with four runs (three earned) in five innings before yielding to the 'pen. Matt Lindstrom, Pedro Strop, Luis Ayala, Troy Patton and Jim Johnson then held Boston's potent offense to just three hits over the final frames. Patton (1-0) picked up the win while Johnson notched his eighth save in as many attempts.
Mark Reynolds went deep for the first time this season, putting the Birds on the board with a solo shot in the third. Reynolds led-off the seventh with a double and later scored, and knocked in the sixth and final run in the 13th with a sac fly. It would be nice if his bat heated up; he committed yet another error at third base in the first inning, one of three O's errors that could have put them out of the game early...
But the Birds battled back all night, coming back from deficits of 1-0, 3-1, and 4-3 before taking the lead for good with two runs in the 13th. Chris Davis' RBI single proved to be the game-winner.
The O's (17-9) remain in second place in the division and have now won three straight. Jason Hammel takes the mound on Saturday afternoon as the Birds look to take the series.
The O's took down the Red Sox 6-4 in 13 innings on Friday night at Fenway Park.
In a battle of the bullpens, the Birds came out on top, as five relievers combined for eight shut-out innings. Starter Wei-Yin Chen was charged with four runs (three earned) in five innings before yielding to the 'pen. Matt Lindstrom, Pedro Strop, Luis Ayala, Troy Patton and Jim Johnson then held Boston's potent offense to just three hits over the final frames. Patton (1-0) picked up the win while Johnson notched his eighth save in as many attempts.
Mark Reynolds went deep for the first time this season, putting the Birds on the board with a solo shot in the third. Reynolds led-off the seventh with a double and later scored, and knocked in the sixth and final run in the 13th with a sac fly. It would be nice if his bat heated up; he committed yet another error at third base in the first inning, one of three O's errors that could have put them out of the game early...
But the Birds battled back all night, coming back from deficits of 1-0, 3-1, and 4-3 before taking the lead for good with two runs in the 13th. Chris Davis' RBI single proved to be the game-winner.
The O's (17-9) remain in second place in the division and have now won three straight. Jason Hammel takes the mound on Saturday afternoon as the Birds look to take the series.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Arrieta Brilliant As O's Blank Yanks
Jake Arrieta turned in his best start of the season as the O's cruised to a 5-0, series-clinching victory over the Yankees in New York on Wednesday night.
Arrieta (2-2) tied a career-best with nine strikeouts and didn't issue a walk for the first time this season. He allowed just five hits (all singles) over eight innings and never allowed a runner to reach second base. It was an impressive performance, to say the least.
The staff combined to allow just three runs over the three-game series, and held the Yankees to two runs or fewer for three straight games in New York for the first time since 1978.
Matt Wieters put the Birds on the board with his team-leading seventh homer, a solo shot in the fourth. Wieters added an RBI double in the seventh and went 3-for-4 on the night. Nick Markakis went deep for the first time since the second game of the season, and Robert Andino went three-for-three with a walk and an RBI.
The O's (16-9) are in second place behind Tampa Bay and are off today before starting a three-game series in Boston on Friday night. Wei-Yin Chen will take the mound in Fenway...
Arrieta (2-2) tied a career-best with nine strikeouts and didn't issue a walk for the first time this season. He allowed just five hits (all singles) over eight innings and never allowed a runner to reach second base. It was an impressive performance, to say the least.
The staff combined to allow just three runs over the three-game series, and held the Yankees to two runs or fewer for three straight games in New York for the first time since 1978.
Matt Wieters put the Birds on the board with his team-leading seventh homer, a solo shot in the fourth. Wieters added an RBI double in the seventh and went 3-for-4 on the night. Nick Markakis went deep for the first time since the second game of the season, and Robert Andino went three-for-three with a walk and an RBI.
The O's (16-9) are in second place behind Tampa Bay and are off today before starting a three-game series in Boston on Friday night. Wei-Yin Chen will take the mound in Fenway...
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Matusz, Buck Victorious
Brian Matusz won his first game of the season, and skipper Buck Showalter the 1,000th of his career, as the Birds cruised to a 7-1 victory over the Yankees in New York on Tuesday night.
Matusz gave up a solo homer to the second batter he faced before settling down, lasting 6 1/3 innings and allowing just the one run on six hits and a walk while striking out four in a 97-pitch outing. Matusz looks better each time he takes the mound, and I'm almost convinced after this start that he has returned to his 2010 form.
He had some help...Chris Davis went deep in the second to tie the game, and J.J. Hardy's two-run shot in the third gave the Birds a 3-1 lead. The O's tacked on three more runs in the sixth and another in the eighth ( off Nick Johnson's first hit of the year, an RBI double) to take a commanding lead.
I was filling in at the station, and was happy to be a (very small) part of history after Buck notched his 1,000th career win right across the street from where he picked up win number one. Showalter tried to downplay the accomplishment, but is only the 58th man in the history of baseball to accomplish the feat.
The Orioles (15-9) are in second place in the East and can pick up another game over New York with a win on Wednesday night. Jake Arrieta looks to give the O's the series win...
Matusz gave up a solo homer to the second batter he faced before settling down, lasting 6 1/3 innings and allowing just the one run on six hits and a walk while striking out four in a 97-pitch outing. Matusz looks better each time he takes the mound, and I'm almost convinced after this start that he has returned to his 2010 form.
He had some help...Chris Davis went deep in the second to tie the game, and J.J. Hardy's two-run shot in the third gave the Birds a 3-1 lead. The O's tacked on three more runs in the sixth and another in the eighth ( off Nick Johnson's first hit of the year, an RBI double) to take a commanding lead.
I was filling in at the station, and was happy to be a (very small) part of history after Buck notched his 1,000th career win right across the street from where he picked up win number one. Showalter tried to downplay the accomplishment, but is only the 58th man in the history of baseball to accomplish the feat.
The Orioles (15-9) are in second place in the East and can pick up another game over New York with a win on Wednesday night. Jake Arrieta looks to give the O's the series win...
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Hammel Strong But Offense Stalls
Jason Hammel was saddled with his first loss of April after the Birds fell to the Yankees 2-1 on Monday night in New York.
The O's have now lost the first four games against the Yankees this season...two games went into extra innings and two of the four have been decided by just one run. The O's have managed to hang with New York; now they have to figure out a way to beat them.
Strong starting pitching is an obvious answer, and the Birds got it on Monday night. Hammel (3-1) allowed just two runs (a two-run homer) on five hits over six innings of work, walking two and striking out five. A dominant bullpen is a must, and the O's 'pen has been a pleasant surprise this year. Matt Lindstrom pitched the seventh, striking out one, and Jim Johnson returned to pitch a 1-2-3 eighth.
The problem was an anemic offense. The Birds tied season-lows in hits (5) and runs (1) in the loss. There weren't many opportunities, but the O's didn't capitalize when they had the chance. In the seventh, the Orioles had runners on second and third with just one out, but Chris Davis struck out swinging and with Wilson Betemit at the plate, Nick Markakis was thrown out at home trying to score on a wild pitch.
The beautiful thing about baseball is that the O's have another chance tonight...Brian Matusz, looking for his first win of the season, takes the mound in New York.
The O's have now lost the first four games against the Yankees this season...two games went into extra innings and two of the four have been decided by just one run. The O's have managed to hang with New York; now they have to figure out a way to beat them.
Strong starting pitching is an obvious answer, and the Birds got it on Monday night. Hammel (3-1) allowed just two runs (a two-run homer) on five hits over six innings of work, walking two and striking out five. A dominant bullpen is a must, and the O's 'pen has been a pleasant surprise this year. Matt Lindstrom pitched the seventh, striking out one, and Jim Johnson returned to pitch a 1-2-3 eighth.
The problem was an anemic offense. The Birds tied season-lows in hits (5) and runs (1) in the loss. There weren't many opportunities, but the O's didn't capitalize when they had the chance. In the seventh, the Orioles had runners on second and third with just one out, but Chris Davis struck out swinging and with Wilson Betemit at the plate, Nick Markakis was thrown out at home trying to score on a wild pitch.
The beautiful thing about baseball is that the O's have another chance tonight...Brian Matusz, looking for his first win of the season, takes the mound in New York.
Monday, April 30, 2012
O's Walk-Off Winners After Five-Run Ninth
This is Orioles' Magic at its best...the Birds were down 2-0 in the bottom of the ninth before scoring five times to walk-off with a 5-2 win over Oakland on Sunday afternoon.
Just hours after exploding for 10 runs, the offense was held scoreless by A's starter Bartolo Colon, who came on to pitch the ninth inning having allowed just five hits, but J.J. Hardy and Adam Jones started off the frame with infield singles and moved into scoring position on Colon's throwing error.
Matt Wieters followed with a long two-run double, missing a walk-off shot by just a few feet. Chris Davis was intentionally walked to get to Wilson Betemit, who answered with a three-run bomb to right field. Wow.
The O's finished the six-game homestand with a 5-1 mark and are tied with Tampa for first place in the East with an impressive 14-8 record. It's hard to believe, but the last time the Birds were six games over .500 was in July of 2005!
Now comes a rough stretch for the O's, all starting later tonight in New York City. Jason Hammel (3-0) looks to go undefeated in April...Let's Go O's!
Just hours after exploding for 10 runs, the offense was held scoreless by A's starter Bartolo Colon, who came on to pitch the ninth inning having allowed just five hits, but J.J. Hardy and Adam Jones started off the frame with infield singles and moved into scoring position on Colon's throwing error.
Matt Wieters followed with a long two-run double, missing a walk-off shot by just a few feet. Chris Davis was intentionally walked to get to Wilson Betemit, who answered with a three-run bomb to right field. Wow.
The O's finished the six-game homestand with a 5-1 mark and are tied with Tampa for first place in the East with an impressive 14-8 record. It's hard to believe, but the last time the Birds were six games over .500 was in July of 2005!
Now comes a rough stretch for the O's, all starting later tonight in New York City. Jason Hammel (3-0) looks to go undefeated in April...Let's Go O's!
Sunday, April 29, 2012
O's Crush A's
It was a chilly night at The Yard, but the O's bats were on fire in a 10-1 win over the visiting Oakland Athletics.
The Birds banged out 14 hits (12 singles) with every player except J.J. Hardy and Ryan Flaherty recording at least one hit. The team scored five runs in the second inning to take a commanding lead and never looked back. Adam Jones, Robert Andino and Chris Davis all went 3-for-4 and Davis tied a career-best with four RBIs. In the seventh, Davis launched a ball 418 feet onto Eutaw Street, becoming just the 25th Oriole to accomplish the feat.
Wei-Yin Chen went seven innings for the first time this season and picked up his second win. Chen (2-0) allowed just one run (a solo homer) on six hits and two walks while fanning four. He escaped a bases-loaded jam in the very first inning and seemed to get stronger as the night went on...
The O's (13-8) are now tied with Tampa Bay for first in the division. Tommy Hunter takes the mound Sunday afternoon; a win would give the club a 5-1 record on the homestand. Next up: three games against the Yankees starting Monday night in New York.
The Birds banged out 14 hits (12 singles) with every player except J.J. Hardy and Ryan Flaherty recording at least one hit. The team scored five runs in the second inning to take a commanding lead and never looked back. Adam Jones, Robert Andino and Chris Davis all went 3-for-4 and Davis tied a career-best with four RBIs. In the seventh, Davis launched a ball 418 feet onto Eutaw Street, becoming just the 25th Oriole to accomplish the feat.
Wei-Yin Chen went seven innings for the first time this season and picked up his second win. Chen (2-0) allowed just one run (a solo homer) on six hits and two walks while fanning four. He escaped a bases-loaded jam in the very first inning and seemed to get stronger as the night went on...
The O's (13-8) are now tied with Tampa Bay for first in the division. Tommy Hunter takes the mound Sunday afternoon; a win would give the club a 5-1 record on the homestand. Next up: three games against the Yankees starting Monday night in New York.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
All Good Things Must Come To An End
The Birds' four-game winning streak was snapped after a 5-2 loss to the A's on Friday night at Camden Yards.
Jake Arrieta pitched a pretty good game but was hurt by the long ball, giving up two homers over 5 2/3 innings of work. Arrieta (1-2) allowed just four hits and two walks, but four runs scored while he was on the mound.
The offense was quiet, as the O's managed just five hits in the game, although three went for extra-bases. Nolan Reimold, Chris Davis and J.J. Hardy all doubled, while Adam Jones (11) and Nick Markakis (9) drove in the O's only runs...
On the plus side, Kevin Gregg came on in mop-up relief and retired the side in order in the ninth inning, striking out two.
With the loss the Birds (12-8) dropped into second place in the ultra-competitive East, where four of the five clubs are at .500 or better.
I'll be at The Yard tonight to collect my Frank Robinson statue; hopefully the rain stays away and the Birds can start another winning streak. Wei-Yin Chen is slated to take the mound.
Jake Arrieta pitched a pretty good game but was hurt by the long ball, giving up two homers over 5 2/3 innings of work. Arrieta (1-2) allowed just four hits and two walks, but four runs scored while he was on the mound.
The offense was quiet, as the O's managed just five hits in the game, although three went for extra-bases. Nolan Reimold, Chris Davis and J.J. Hardy all doubled, while Adam Jones (11) and Nick Markakis (9) drove in the O's only runs...
On the plus side, Kevin Gregg came on in mop-up relief and retired the side in order in the ninth inning, striking out two.
With the loss the Birds (12-8) dropped into second place in the ultra-competitive East, where four of the five clubs are at .500 or better.
I'll be at The Yard tonight to collect my Frank Robinson statue; hopefully the rain stays away and the Birds can start another winning streak. Wei-Yin Chen is slated to take the mound.
Friday, April 27, 2012
O's Sweep Jays
The Birds completed a three-game sweep of Toronto with a 5-2 victory on Thursday night at Camden Yards.
Brian Matusz turned in his best outing of the season but took a no-decision. Matusz allowed two unearned runs on four hits and two walks over six innings, striking out three. It was his first quality start since his final outing in 2010...
Adam Jones snapped a 2-2 tie with a lead-off homer in the eighth, and Chris Davis slapped a two-run shot later in the inning to give the Birds a three-run cushion. Jones is now tied with Matt Wieters for the team lead in homers with six, and Davis has homered in two straight contests.
Luis Ayala took the mound in the ninth and picked up his first save since 2008 when he was a New York Met.
The Birds (12-7) remain tied for first with the Rays and start a three-game set with Oakland on Friday night; Jake Arrieta looks for his second win of the season.
Brian Matusz turned in his best outing of the season but took a no-decision. Matusz allowed two unearned runs on four hits and two walks over six innings, striking out three. It was his first quality start since his final outing in 2010...
Adam Jones snapped a 2-2 tie with a lead-off homer in the eighth, and Chris Davis slapped a two-run shot later in the inning to give the Birds a three-run cushion. Jones is now tied with Matt Wieters for the team lead in homers with six, and Davis has homered in two straight contests.
Luis Ayala took the mound in the ninth and picked up his first save since 2008 when he was a New York Met.
The Birds (12-7) remain tied for first with the Rays and start a three-game set with Oakland on Friday night; Jake Arrieta looks for his second win of the season.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Hammel Blanks Jays
Jason Hammel became the first O's pitcher to hit three wins this season after a strong seven inning performance in a 3-0 win over the Blue Jays Wednesday night.
Hammel (3-0) allowed just four hits and fanned seven over seven scoreless innings, walking one and lowering his ERA to 1.73. Jeremy who?
Wilson Betemit committed two errors at third base but made up for it with his second homer of the season, a solo shot in the second inning. Chris Davis connected for his second homer, a solo blast in the fourth. The O's added a third run in the eighth, when Adam Jones doubled home Nick Markakis.
Pedro Strop allowed the first two batters he faced to reach in the ninth before inducing a pop-fly and a double play to end the game, and recorded his second save in as many days. Jim Johnson is still in the hospital, and doctors are unsure of his ailment at this time...
The O's have a chance at the three-game sweep of Toronto and send Brian Matusz (0-3) to the mound on Thursday night.
Hammel (3-0) allowed just four hits and fanned seven over seven scoreless innings, walking one and lowering his ERA to 1.73. Jeremy who?
Wilson Betemit committed two errors at third base but made up for it with his second homer of the season, a solo shot in the second inning. Chris Davis connected for his second homer, a solo blast in the fourth. The O's added a third run in the eighth, when Adam Jones doubled home Nick Markakis.
Pedro Strop allowed the first two batters he faced to reach in the ninth before inducing a pop-fly and a double play to end the game, and recorded his second save in as many days. Jim Johnson is still in the hospital, and doctors are unsure of his ailment at this time...
The O's have a chance at the three-game sweep of Toronto and send Brian Matusz (0-3) to the mound on Thursday night.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Hunter Shuts Down Jays
Tommy Hunter allowed just a solo homer over six innings as the O's edged Toronto 2-1 on Tuesday night at Camden Yards.
The Birds loaded the bases with none out in the first inning but managed just a run on a double-play ball. Toronto tied it in the third inning, but Matt Wieters slapped his team-leading sixth homer in the fourth to give the O's a 2-1 lead they would never relinquish.
The bullpen continued to impress, allowing just two hits over the final three frames. With Jim Johnson in the hospital with a possible virus, Pedro Strop took the mound in the ninth and struck out two en route to his first Major League save.
The Orioles (10-7) are now in a four-way tie for first place in the East with New York, Toronto and Tampa. Jason Hammel takes the mound Wednesday night...
The Birds loaded the bases with none out in the first inning but managed just a run on a double-play ball. Toronto tied it in the third inning, but Matt Wieters slapped his team-leading sixth homer in the fourth to give the O's a 2-1 lead they would never relinquish.
The bullpen continued to impress, allowing just two hits over the final three frames. With Jim Johnson in the hospital with a possible virus, Pedro Strop took the mound in the ninth and struck out two en route to his first Major League save.
The Orioles (10-7) are now in a four-way tie for first place in the East with New York, Toronto and Tampa. Jason Hammel takes the mound Wednesday night...
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Markakis Comes Through
The O's avoided a sweep and notched a winning road trip with a 3-2, 10-inning victory over the Angels on Sunday afternoon. It was the first time the Birds have had a winning record on a 10-game trip since 2004.
Wei-Yin Chen continues to improve with each appearance; he allowed just one run on five hits and three walks in 6 1/3 innings, striking out five. He exited after issuing back-to-back walks and the O's down 1-0, eventually settling for a no-decision. The 'pen was solid yet again, and Jim Johnson picked up his seventh save in seven opportunities this season.
Nick Markakis put the O's on the board with a two-out, two-run single in the top of the eighth before the Angels tied it up in the bottom of the frame. Markakis laced another two-out single in the tenth to plate Robert Andino with the winning run.
The O's (9-7) have Monday off before starting a six-game homestand on Tuesday. Tommy Hunter will take the hill against Toronto.
Wei-Yin Chen continues to improve with each appearance; he allowed just one run on five hits and three walks in 6 1/3 innings, striking out five. He exited after issuing back-to-back walks and the O's down 1-0, eventually settling for a no-decision. The 'pen was solid yet again, and Jim Johnson picked up his seventh save in seven opportunities this season.
Nick Markakis put the O's on the board with a two-out, two-run single in the top of the eighth before the Angels tied it up in the bottom of the frame. Markakis laced another two-out single in the tenth to plate Robert Andino with the winning run.
The O's (9-7) have Monday off before starting a six-game homestand on Tuesday. Tommy Hunter will take the hill against Toronto.
Errors Costing O's
The O's committed another three errors in Saturday night's 6-3 loss to the Angels.
If you're counting, that's six errors in the past two games, and 19 overall in 15 games this season, tied for the most in the Majors. It's simply unacceptable, and it needs to stop.
Jake Arrieta had two errors on pickoff attempts in his first loss of the year. Arrieta (1-1) had amazing stuff early on, retiring 12 straight at one point, but after the O's handed him a 2-0 lead he fell apart, surrendering five runs in the fifth inning and exiting with the bases loaded and just one out. Not really sure what happened there...
Matt Weiters put the Birds on the board with a two-run shot in the fifth, his fifth of the year, and drove in all three runs. Nick Johnson, serving as the DH, went 0-for-3 and is batting an even .000 so far...
The Birds are now 5-4 on the road and wrap-up the 10-game trip today; Wei-Yin Chen takes the mound later this afternoon.
If you're counting, that's six errors in the past two games, and 19 overall in 15 games this season, tied for the most in the Majors. It's simply unacceptable, and it needs to stop.
Jake Arrieta had two errors on pickoff attempts in his first loss of the year. Arrieta (1-1) had amazing stuff early on, retiring 12 straight at one point, but after the O's handed him a 2-0 lead he fell apart, surrendering five runs in the fifth inning and exiting with the bases loaded and just one out. Not really sure what happened there...
Matt Weiters put the Birds on the board with a two-run shot in the fifth, his fifth of the year, and drove in all three runs. Nick Johnson, serving as the DH, went 0-for-3 and is batting an even .000 so far...
The Birds are now 5-4 on the road and wrap-up the 10-game trip today; Wei-Yin Chen takes the mound later this afternoon.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Matusz, O's Fall To Halos
Will Brian Matusz ever win again? I'm sure of it, but after a 6-3 loss to the Angels on Friday night, Matusz (o-3) could use a confidence boost.
Dating back to last season, Matusz has dropped 12 straight games, and is still in search of his first quality start this year. He came close again, and took the mound in the sixth inning with his team down 3-1. But things took a turn for the worse, and Matusz's final line showed six runs allowed (four earned) in five innings with three walks and six strikeouts. His ERA now stands at 7.98.
The defense didn't help him out...the Birds were charged with three errors on the night (and it could have been four or five in reality). The Orioles have committed 16 errors in the first 14 games of the seaon, tied for the most team errors in the Majors.
Nolan Reimold continued his torrid hitting streak, going 3-for-5 with a double and a two-run bomb, his fifth long ball in his last six games. Reimold leads the club with a .370 average, is tied with Adam Jones with five homers and is tops with 10 RBIs.
The O's (8-6) are now tied for first in the East with the Yankees, and send Jake Arrieta to the mound Saturday night.
Dating back to last season, Matusz has dropped 12 straight games, and is still in search of his first quality start this year. He came close again, and took the mound in the sixth inning with his team down 3-1. But things took a turn for the worse, and Matusz's final line showed six runs allowed (four earned) in five innings with three walks and six strikeouts. His ERA now stands at 7.98.
The defense didn't help him out...the Birds were charged with three errors on the night (and it could have been four or five in reality). The Orioles have committed 16 errors in the first 14 games of the seaon, tied for the most team errors in the Majors.
Nolan Reimold continued his torrid hitting streak, going 3-for-5 with a double and a two-run bomb, his fifth long ball in his last six games. Reimold leads the club with a .370 average, is tied with Adam Jones with five homers and is tops with 10 RBIs.
The O's (8-6) are now tied for first in the East with the Yankees, and send Jake Arrieta to the mound Saturday night.
Friday, April 20, 2012
O's Take 3 Of 4
The O's took the series over Chicago after a 5-3 win on Thursday afternoon.
Jason Hammel (2-0) picked up his second win in three attempts, allowing just two runs on six hits and three walks over six innings, striking out ten.
The bullpen continued to impress, and although Jim Johnson loaded the bases in the ninth, he notched his sixth save in six tries and 14th straight overall dating back to last season.
Adam Jones went 2-for-4 with three RBIs and hit his team-leading fifth long-ball in the fifth inning.
The O's take on the Angels for three games starting late Friday night; Brian Matusz takes the mound for the Birds.
Jason Hammel (2-0) picked up his second win in three attempts, allowing just two runs on six hits and three walks over six innings, striking out ten.
The bullpen continued to impress, and although Jim Johnson loaded the bases in the ninth, he notched his sixth save in six tries and 14th straight overall dating back to last season.
Adam Jones went 2-for-4 with three RBIs and hit his team-leading fifth long-ball in the fifth inning.
The O's take on the Angels for three games starting late Friday night; Brian Matusz takes the mound for the Birds.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Birds Blown Away In Windy City
You can't win them all...the O's lost an ugly game to Chicago 8-1 on Wednesday night. The starting pitching was abysmal and the offense was nowhere to be found. But, the O's are still in first place for now.
Tommy Hunter had his second straight poor outing, giving up eight runs on nine hits and four walks in just 5 2/3 innings. Hunter gave up two long balls and has now served up six homers in his last two starts. He started the game with three straight strikeouts before losing his composure, and tied a career-best with eight K's on the night.
The Birds took a 1-0 lead courtesy of two doubles in the second inning, but were held off the scoreboard for the rest of the night...they had only three singles over the final seven frames.
The O's look to take the series with a win on Thursday afternoon and will send Jason Hammel to the mound...
Tommy Hunter had his second straight poor outing, giving up eight runs on nine hits and four walks in just 5 2/3 innings. Hunter gave up two long balls and has now served up six homers in his last two starts. He started the game with three straight strikeouts before losing his composure, and tied a career-best with eight K's on the night.
The Birds took a 1-0 lead courtesy of two doubles in the second inning, but were held off the scoreboard for the rest of the night...they had only three singles over the final seven frames.
The O's look to take the series with a win on Thursday afternoon and will send Jason Hammel to the mound...
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Chen Picks Up First Major League Win
Wei-Yin Chen picked up his first win in the Bigs, thanks to another offensive showing from Nolan Reimold and a little bit of good luck, as the O's took down Chicago 3-2 on Tuesday night.
Nolan Reimold launched a two-run bomb to left-center in the sixth to break a scoreless tie, and J.J. Hardy followed with a solo shot to give the Birds a 3-0 lead. Reimold has now homered in four straight games, and the Orioles now lead the Majors with 20 long balls in their first 11 games...
Chen once again pitched five scoreless innings before running into trouble in the bottom of the sixth, allowing three hits, a walk and a wild pitch before being pulled with runners on the corners, one out and the O's clinging to a 3-2 lead. Darren O'Day came on and induced an infield pop-up before picking off Alex Rios trying to steal second. O'Day, Troy Patton and Luis Ayala held Chicago to just one hit over 2 2/3 frames, and Jim Johnson survived a wild ninth to pick up his fifth save of the season.
Johnson allowed two walks and J.J. Hardy committed his first error of the year, but with the bases loaded and two outs, Johnson coaxed a ground ball to secure the win.
Tommy Hunter takes the mound on Wednesday night before the Birds wrap-up the four-game set with Chicago on Thursday afternoon.
Nolan Reimold launched a two-run bomb to left-center in the sixth to break a scoreless tie, and J.J. Hardy followed with a solo shot to give the Birds a 3-0 lead. Reimold has now homered in four straight games, and the Orioles now lead the Majors with 20 long balls in their first 11 games...
Chen once again pitched five scoreless innings before running into trouble in the bottom of the sixth, allowing three hits, a walk and a wild pitch before being pulled with runners on the corners, one out and the O's clinging to a 3-2 lead. Darren O'Day came on and induced an infield pop-up before picking off Alex Rios trying to steal second. O'Day, Troy Patton and Luis Ayala held Chicago to just one hit over 2 2/3 frames, and Jim Johnson survived a wild ninth to pick up his fifth save of the season.
Johnson allowed two walks and J.J. Hardy committed his first error of the year, but with the bases loaded and two outs, Johnson coaxed a ground ball to secure the win.
Tommy Hunter takes the mound on Wednesday night before the Birds wrap-up the four-game set with Chicago on Thursday afternoon.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Offense Explodes In Extras
After a frustrating seven innings, in which the O's set a season-high with three errors and consistently stranded runners on base, the Orioles scored three times in the eighth and ninth innings to tie the game before exploding for six runs in the tenth, taking a 10-4 victory over the White Sox in Chicago.
Matt Wieters slapped a solo homer in the eighth inning to cut Chicago's lead to 4-2. Nolan Reimold led-off the ninth with a solo homer and has now homered in three straight games, all solo shots in the ninth inning. Two outs later, Adam Jones followed with a solo blast of his own to tie the game up. In the tenth, the O's scored six times, four coming off Wieters' first career grand slam. The Birds set a season-high with 15 hits.
Jake Arrieta pitched a great game but took a no-decision (he deserved a "W", but hey, it's better than a loss). Arrieta went 6 2/3, allowing four runs (two earned) on seven hits and a walk (intentional) while fanning seven. Matt Lindstrom and Pedro Strop held the Sox to one hit over the final 3 1/3, with Strop striking out the side in the bottom of the tenth.
The 6-4 Orioles are in sole possession of first in the East and now send Wei-Yin Chen to the mound on Tuesday night.
Matt Wieters slapped a solo homer in the eighth inning to cut Chicago's lead to 4-2. Nolan Reimold led-off the ninth with a solo homer and has now homered in three straight games, all solo shots in the ninth inning. Two outs later, Adam Jones followed with a solo blast of his own to tie the game up. In the tenth, the O's scored six times, four coming off Wieters' first career grand slam. The Birds set a season-high with 15 hits.
Jake Arrieta pitched a great game but took a no-decision (he deserved a "W", but hey, it's better than a loss). Arrieta went 6 2/3, allowing four runs (two earned) on seven hits and a walk (intentional) while fanning seven. Matt Lindstrom and Pedro Strop held the Sox to one hit over the final 3 1/3, with Strop striking out the side in the bottom of the tenth.
The 6-4 Orioles are in sole possession of first in the East and now send Wei-Yin Chen to the mound on Tuesday night.
O's Miss Out On Sweep Up North
The Orioles had to settle for taking 2-of-3 against Toronto after falling 9-2 on Sunday afternoon.
It wasn't as bad as it looked...the Birds were right in this one and took a 2-1 lead into the bottom of the sixth. Brian Matusz turned in a pretty good outing but left after 6 2/3 innings and Toronto leading 3-2. Kevin Gregg came on with two on and two outs...that's when things got ugly. Gregg allowed three hits and two walks, hitting a batter with the bases loaded, and Toronto scored seven times in the sixth to put the game out of reach.
The Birds now head to Chicago for a three-game set; Jake Arrieta takes the mound Monday night.
It wasn't as bad as it looked...the Birds were right in this one and took a 2-1 lead into the bottom of the sixth. Brian Matusz turned in a pretty good outing but left after 6 2/3 innings and Toronto leading 3-2. Kevin Gregg came on with two on and two outs...that's when things got ugly. Gregg allowed three hits and two walks, hitting a batter with the bases loaded, and Toronto scored seven times in the sixth to put the game out of reach.
The Birds now head to Chicago for a three-game set; Jake Arrieta takes the mound Monday night.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Reimold Powers O's Past Jays
The Birds took their second straight at Rogers Centre on Saturday afternoon thanks to another blast from Nolan Reimold in the ninth inning, giving them a 6-4 win.
Reimold, who homered in the ninth on Friday night, launched a two-run bomb that broke a 4-4 tie and gave Jim Johnson a two-run cushion to work with. Johnson went on to pick up his fourth save in as many chances.
Chris Davis went 3-for-4 and hit his first homer of the season, and Wilson Betemit's first homer as an Oriole tied the game up in the eighth inning.
Starter Jason Hammel didn't have no-hit stuff on Saturday but kept the O's in the game, giving up just two runs on six hits and a walk over five innings of work, fanning three.
Brian Matusz takes the mound Sunday afternoon as the O's look for a rare sweep of the Jays in Toronto...Let's Go O's!!!
Reimold, who homered in the ninth on Friday night, launched a two-run bomb that broke a 4-4 tie and gave Jim Johnson a two-run cushion to work with. Johnson went on to pick up his fourth save in as many chances.
Chris Davis went 3-for-4 and hit his first homer of the season, and Wilson Betemit's first homer as an Oriole tied the game up in the eighth inning.
Starter Jason Hammel didn't have no-hit stuff on Saturday but kept the O's in the game, giving up just two runs on six hits and a walk over five innings of work, fanning three.
Brian Matusz takes the mound Sunday afternoon as the O's look for a rare sweep of the Jays in Toronto...Let's Go O's!!!
Saturday, April 14, 2012
O's Come Out On Top In Toronto
Toronto out-homered them, but the Orioles took the first of three games against the Blue Jays with a 7-5 win on Friday night.
The Jays bashed four homers, all solo shots, but the O's answered with three solo homers of their own. Tommy Hunter was tagged for five runs (four earned) in six innings, walking two and fanning two. Hunter allowed just six hits, but four of them went over the fence.
Robert Andino and Nolan Reimold both homered for the first time this season and Adam Jones went deep for the second time in 2012. But it was Wilson Betemit's clutch single with two down and the bases loaded in the eighth that won the game.
Betemit, playing third base in place of Mark Reynolds, provided the clutch hit the O's have been lacking the past few games, and made a few nice defensive plays in the field. Reynolds was the DH for the game and went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts. Buck is going to get Reynolds some playing time at first base...apparently our griping is being heard! I would take a few errors if he was hitting, but Mark is batting just .143 with no home runs, two RBIs and 10 strikeouts in his first six games. Still, I'm confident his bat will heat up soon.
The O's are in a four-way tie for first in the division with a 4-3 record, and square-off against their divisional rivals again later this afternoon. Jason Hammel takes the mound for the Birds...
The Jays bashed four homers, all solo shots, but the O's answered with three solo homers of their own. Tommy Hunter was tagged for five runs (four earned) in six innings, walking two and fanning two. Hunter allowed just six hits, but four of them went over the fence.
Robert Andino and Nolan Reimold both homered for the first time this season and Adam Jones went deep for the second time in 2012. But it was Wilson Betemit's clutch single with two down and the bases loaded in the eighth that won the game.
Betemit, playing third base in place of Mark Reynolds, provided the clutch hit the O's have been lacking the past few games, and made a few nice defensive plays in the field. Reynolds was the DH for the game and went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts. Buck is going to get Reynolds some playing time at first base...apparently our griping is being heard! I would take a few errors if he was hitting, but Mark is batting just .143 with no home runs, two RBIs and 10 strikeouts in his first six games. Still, I'm confident his bat will heat up soon.
The O's are in a four-way tie for first in the division with a 4-3 record, and square-off against their divisional rivals again later this afternoon. Jason Hammel takes the mound for the Birds...
Thursday, April 12, 2012
O's Fall In Extras (Again)
It seemed like I just watched this game yesterday...a strong performance by an Orioles' starter, a 4-4 tie in the late innings, the Birds struggling with the bases loaded in the ninth and the Yankees taking the lead in extra innings...and the Orioles lose.
But it really happened again. This time it only took 10 innings, but the results were the same. The Yankees swept the Orioles in three games at Camden Yards.
This time it was Adam Jones, not J.J. hardy at the plate with the bases jammed in the bottom of the ninth. Nick Markakis was intentionally walked to get to Jones, batting cleanup. Jones struck out swinging for the fences, sending the game to extras. Kevin Gregg got two outs before allowing a bloop double and a two-run blast to give New York a lead they would not relinquish.
There are quite a few positives to take from this game: O's starter Jake Arrieta was solid yet again, going 6 2/3 innings, allowing four runs on five hits and a walk while striking out five. He LOOKS like an ace. Jeremy Guthrie, by comparison, never was. Guthrie lasted just 3 1/3 innings tonight, giving up six runs on nine hits to the Giants. The O's are also proving they can hang with the Yankees. I know it's tough to lose, but at least we are close. I'd still rather see a game we could have and SHOULD have won instead of a blowout. The team is improving, and there are 15 games left against New York this season...
That being said, the O's need to improve if they ever hope to be tops in the division. Starting pitching is key, and it seems like the Orioles are where they need to be in that department. I blame the hitting for the last two losses. The O's have struggled all series with runners in scoring position, going 3-for-9 while stranding ten on base on Wednesday. They also struck out 12 times after whiffing 15 times the game prior. That's simply unacceptable no matter who is on the mound.
The 3-3 Orioles have Thursday off before taking on the Blue Jays Friday night. Tommy Hunter looks for his second win, and the Birds look to get back in the win column!
But it really happened again. This time it only took 10 innings, but the results were the same. The Yankees swept the Orioles in three games at Camden Yards.
This time it was Adam Jones, not J.J. hardy at the plate with the bases jammed in the bottom of the ninth. Nick Markakis was intentionally walked to get to Jones, batting cleanup. Jones struck out swinging for the fences, sending the game to extras. Kevin Gregg got two outs before allowing a bloop double and a two-run blast to give New York a lead they would not relinquish.
There are quite a few positives to take from this game: O's starter Jake Arrieta was solid yet again, going 6 2/3 innings, allowing four runs on five hits and a walk while striking out five. He LOOKS like an ace. Jeremy Guthrie, by comparison, never was. Guthrie lasted just 3 1/3 innings tonight, giving up six runs on nine hits to the Giants. The O's are also proving they can hang with the Yankees. I know it's tough to lose, but at least we are close. I'd still rather see a game we could have and SHOULD have won instead of a blowout. The team is improving, and there are 15 games left against New York this season...
That being said, the O's need to improve if they ever hope to be tops in the division. Starting pitching is key, and it seems like the Orioles are where they need to be in that department. I blame the hitting for the last two losses. The O's have struggled all series with runners in scoring position, going 3-for-9 while stranding ten on base on Wednesday. They also struck out 12 times after whiffing 15 times the game prior. That's simply unacceptable no matter who is on the mound.
The 3-3 Orioles have Thursday off before taking on the Blue Jays Friday night. Tommy Hunter looks for his second win, and the Birds look to get back in the win column!
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Birds Fall In 12th
Wei-Yin Chen's Orioles debut didn't start so well: he gave up a home run to the very first batter he faced. Chen settled down though, at one point retiring 12 straight Yankees, but eventually had to settle for a no-decision as the Birds fell to New York 5-4 in 12 innings on Tuesday night.
Chen lasted 5 2/3 innings, giving up four runs (two earned) on seven hits and a walk while fanning six. He would have made it out of the fifth with the Birds leading 4-2 if not for a Mark Reynolds error, which led to the two unearned runs. It was Reynolds second error in the first five games of the season...he didn't fare too well at the plate either, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts.He was on base once via the free pass but was caught stealing. Let's hope he isn't the liability he was at third base last year...
J.J. Hardy launched a solo homer in the first inning, and the O's have now hit at least one home run in each game this season. Sadly, all been solo shots except Nick Markakis' two-run homer on Opening Day.. The Birds struggled offensively all night and never really came up with a clutch hit, going 0-for-8 with runners in scoring position. The club drew five walks but whiffed 15 times.
After sweeping the Twins, the O's have now dropped two straight against the Yankees and wrap up the homestand Wednesday night. In a battle of aces, Jake Arrieta takes on CC Sabathia.
Chen lasted 5 2/3 innings, giving up four runs (two earned) on seven hits and a walk while fanning six. He would have made it out of the fifth with the Birds leading 4-2 if not for a Mark Reynolds error, which led to the two unearned runs. It was Reynolds second error in the first five games of the season...he didn't fare too well at the plate either, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts.He was on base once via the free pass but was caught stealing. Let's hope he isn't the liability he was at third base last year...
J.J. Hardy launched a solo homer in the first inning, and the O's have now hit at least one home run in each game this season. Sadly, all been solo shots except Nick Markakis' two-run homer on Opening Day.. The Birds struggled offensively all night and never really came up with a clutch hit, going 0-for-8 with runners in scoring position. The club drew five walks but whiffed 15 times.
After sweeping the Twins, the O's have now dropped two straight against the Yankees and wrap up the homestand Wednesday night. In a battle of aces, Jake Arrieta takes on CC Sabathia.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Matusz's Struggles Continue
It would have been nice to go 4-0 and keep the Yankees winless, but it didn't happen. Brian Matusz lasted just four innings and took the loss after New York beat the O's 6-2 on Monday night.
It wasn't all bad...Matusz's fastball was consistently in the low-90s, an encouraging sign, and he needed just 11 pitches to get through the second inning. But he allowed a run in the first and three more in the fourth before exiting after 96 pitches. His final line: four innings, four earned runs, six hits, four walks, one strikeout. Two of the walks came around to score in the fourth inning.
Overall, the O's walked seven batters while New York walked none. That is one of the easiest ways to explain why the Yankees won despite being out-hit 13-11 by Baltimore. The O's had a rough time with men in scoring position as well, going just 2-for-15.
Matt Wieters had a great game, going 4-for-4 with a solo homer and a double; he also threw out a runner trying to steal third. Robert Andino had two doubles, and Chris Davis slapped an RBI double in the seventh. Six of the O's 13 hits went for extra-bases, but the Birds weren't able to get any clutch hits...
I knew the O's had to lose eventually, but it would have been nice to beat the Yankees...there's still two games left to do just that. Wei-Yin Chen makes his Orioles debut Tuesday night...
It wasn't all bad...Matusz's fastball was consistently in the low-90s, an encouraging sign, and he needed just 11 pitches to get through the second inning. But he allowed a run in the first and three more in the fourth before exiting after 96 pitches. His final line: four innings, four earned runs, six hits, four walks, one strikeout. Two of the walks came around to score in the fourth inning.
Overall, the O's walked seven batters while New York walked none. That is one of the easiest ways to explain why the Yankees won despite being out-hit 13-11 by Baltimore. The O's had a rough time with men in scoring position as well, going just 2-for-15.
Matt Wieters had a great game, going 4-for-4 with a solo homer and a double; he also threw out a runner trying to steal third. Robert Andino had two doubles, and Chris Davis slapped an RBI double in the seventh. Six of the O's 13 hits went for extra-bases, but the Birds weren't able to get any clutch hits...
I knew the O's had to lose eventually, but it would have been nice to beat the Yankees...there's still two games left to do just that. Wei-Yin Chen makes his Orioles debut Tuesday night...
Monday, April 9, 2012
Hammel Almost Makes History
Jason Hammel took a no-hitter into the eighth inning but had to settle for a 3-1 win over the visiting Twins on Easter Sunday. The Guthrie trade is looking like a real good move right about now...
Hammel became the latest starter to go at least seven innings, turning in eight frames and allowing just the one run on two hits (back-to-back doubles to start the eighth) while walking three and fanning five. Jim Johnson pitched a scoreless ninth for his second save in as many tries.
J.J. Hardy put the Birds on the board in the first inning with a solo shot to left. The O's have now homered in each game of the young season. Wilson Betemit gave Hammel some breathing room with a two-run double in the sixth.
With the sweep, the 3-0 Birds are now tied with the Rays for first in the division. The Yankees and Red Sox both started the season 0-3 for just the second time in history...
The Yankees come to town to start a three-game set later tonight. Brian Matusz looks to one-up Hammel's performance, which will be pretty tough to do. I'll settle for seven strong innings and another "W"! Let's Go O's!
Hammel became the latest starter to go at least seven innings, turning in eight frames and allowing just the one run on two hits (back-to-back doubles to start the eighth) while walking three and fanning five. Jim Johnson pitched a scoreless ninth for his second save in as many tries.
J.J. Hardy put the Birds on the board in the first inning with a solo shot to left. The O's have now homered in each game of the young season. Wilson Betemit gave Hammel some breathing room with a two-run double in the sixth.
With the sweep, the 3-0 Birds are now tied with the Rays for first in the division. The Yankees and Red Sox both started the season 0-3 for just the second time in history...
The Yankees come to town to start a three-game set later tonight. Brian Matusz looks to one-up Hammel's performance, which will be pretty tough to do. I'll settle for seven strong innings and another "W"! Let's Go O's!
Sunday, April 8, 2012
A Twin Killing
What a game! The O's launched three homers in an 8-2 rout of the Twins on Saturday night at Camden Yards, and I was lucky enough to be in attendance to see it.
Tommy Hunter turned in seven strong innings, allowing just two unearned runs on six hits and a walk while striking out three. In the first two games of the season, O's starters have gone 14 innings and have yet to allow an earned run...impressive, to say the least. It's all about the pitching, and if the Birds can keep this up they have a real chance this year.
The bats came to life, as Adam Jones, Nick Markakis and Matt Wieters all went deep in the win. It was Markakis' second homer in as many games. Designated hitter Ronny Paulino went 4-for-4 with a double and scored twice, and Robert Andino led the team with two RBIs.
Jason Hammel makes his O's debut on Easter Sunday...I'll be running the board at WBAL. Let's see if he can match Arietta and Hunter's performances.
Tommy Hunter turned in seven strong innings, allowing just two unearned runs on six hits and a walk while striking out three. In the first two games of the season, O's starters have gone 14 innings and have yet to allow an earned run...impressive, to say the least. It's all about the pitching, and if the Birds can keep this up they have a real chance this year.
The bats came to life, as Adam Jones, Nick Markakis and Matt Wieters all went deep in the win. It was Markakis' second homer in as many games. Designated hitter Ronny Paulino went 4-for-4 with a double and scored twice, and Robert Andino led the team with two RBIs.
Jason Hammel makes his O's debut on Easter Sunday...I'll be running the board at WBAL. Let's see if he can match Arietta and Hunter's performances.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Birds Open Season With A Bang
For one day at least, the Orioles looked amazing.
Jake Arrieta was nearly unhittable. Nick Markakis found his power stroke.
The O's beat up on the Twins in a 4-2 season-opening victory in front of a sell-out crowd at Camden Yards. Baltimore is in a three-way tie for first place in the AL East. Boston and New York are in the cellar. Life is good...
Arrieta (1-0) allowed just two hits (both singles) and two walks over seven solid innings, fanning four. Markakis homered to left in his first at bat and tripled to right his next time up, finishing with three RBIs.
Things got a little dicey in the ninth after Troy Patton served up a two-run dinger to cut the O's lead in half, but Jim Johnson came on to record the final two outs and pick up his first save of the season.
The Birds send Tommy Hunter to the mound on Saturday night...me, my wife and some good friends will be in the stands for Opening Night...Let's Go O's!
Jake Arrieta was nearly unhittable. Nick Markakis found his power stroke.
The O's beat up on the Twins in a 4-2 season-opening victory in front of a sell-out crowd at Camden Yards. Baltimore is in a three-way tie for first place in the AL East. Boston and New York are in the cellar. Life is good...
Arrieta (1-0) allowed just two hits (both singles) and two walks over seven solid innings, fanning four. Markakis homered to left in his first at bat and tripled to right his next time up, finishing with three RBIs.
Things got a little dicey in the ninth after Troy Patton served up a two-run dinger to cut the O's lead in half, but Jim Johnson came on to record the final two outs and pick up his first save of the season.
The Birds send Tommy Hunter to the mound on Saturday night...me, my wife and some good friends will be in the stands for Opening Night...Let's Go O's!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Spring Training Comes To An End
Well, this was it...the final week of Grapefruit League play. With a win today (the O's are losing 8-4 in the ninth inning), the Birds would finish Spring Training with a .500 (12-12-6) record, which is all you can really hope for in the regular season. The O's have yet to announce their Opening Day starter, but as stated last week, all signs point to Jake Arrieta taking the mound at Camden Yards on Friday April 6. Here's a few highlights from week four in Florida:
- 03/25- O's 3, Phillies 3- Brian Matusz allowed three runs on six hits and a walk in 4 2/3 innings, striking out two. Nolan Reimold homered for the second consecutive game
- 03/26- O's 4, Pirates 1- Tommy Hunter allowed just one hit (a double) and a walk over six innings, fanning five
- 03/27- Twins 5, O's 0- Tsuyoshi Wada made his first spring start and allowed four runs on four hits and two walks in just three innings of work
- 03/28- Jays 9, O's 3- Dana Eveland allowed three runs through four innings; Alfredo Simon allowed another six runs to cross in just two innings of relief (both pitchers were released later in the week)
- 03/29- O's 4, Yankees 3- Jason Hammel allowed two runs on five hits in 5 1/3 innings, walking none and fanning five; Mark Reynolds knocked in two runs; Matt Wieters doubled and tripled
- 03/30- Tigers 6, O's 4- Brian Matusz made his final start of the spring, allowing three runs on five hits and a walk over five frames, fanning four; Adam Jones launched his fourth homer
- 03/31- O's 6, Pirates 6- Jake Arrieta surrendered six runs on eight hits and two walks in just five innings; three Orioles went deep
- 04/01- Rays 8, O's 5- Wei-Yin Chen allowed seven runs (three earned) over five innings in his final start of the season; J.J. Hardy homered twice; Nick Markakis homered
Sunday, March 25, 2012
O's Heating Up In Week Three...
The weather must be heating up, because the Birds are finally starting to make some noise with their bats. The O's have won their last three contests, scoring a combined 29 runs in those three games. Here's a quick recap of the highlights...
- 03/18- O's 2, Braves 2- Tsuyoshi Wada made his first appearance and allowed one run on one hit over two innings. Five O's pitchers combined to strike out 12 while walking just one
- O's 6, Yankees 3- Adam Jones stroked a three-run bomb and Matt Wieters followed with a solo shot in the first inning
- 03/20- Phillies 4, O's 1- Brian Matusz allowed one run on seven hits and a walk over five innings, fanning three
- 03/21- Jays 6, O's 3- Tommy Hunter made his spring debut, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over five innings, fanning two; Adam Jones homered
- 03/22- O's 11, Twins 1- Wei-Yin Chen allowed just one run on four hits through five innings; the offense slapped 14 hits, including 5 doubles, a triple and 3 round-trippers
- 03/23- O's 6, Red Sox 5- Adam Jones crushed his third homer of the Spring (and of the week); Nick Markakis went deep for the first time
- 03/24- O's 12, Nationals 3- Jake Arrieta allowed one run on four hits and a walk over five innings; Matt Wieters went 4-for-4 with a home run and six RBIs
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Week Two Results...
Since my last post, the O's have won just one of eight games, but I have been impressed for the most part with the starting pitching. Here's a quick recap from the second week of Spring Training:
- 03/11- Red Sox 6, O's 1- Chris Tillman fired three scoreless innings in relief, allowing just one hit while fanning three, and topped out at 95 mph on the radar gun
- 03/12- Jays 4, O's 1- Wei-Yin Chen allowed one run on two hits and a walk over three innings
- 03/13- O's 7, Rays 7- Jai Miller went 3-for-5 with a three-run homer; Jason Hammel allowed just one run (a solo homer) over three innings
- 03/14- Pirates 11, O's 5- Nick Markakis made his debut, going 0-for-2 with a walk as the DH; J.J. Hardy and Mark Reynolds both launched their first homers
- 03/15- Tigers 4, O's 2- Brian Matusz struck out six and allowed just two hits over four scoreless innings, walking none
- 03/16- O's 3, Twins 1-Tillman went 3 1/3 innings in his first start, allowing one run on four hits and two walks; Robert Andino homered
- 03/17- O's 3, Red Sox 3- Chen went five innings, allowing three runs on six hits, one walk and three strikeouts; Markakis doubled
- Red Sox 7, O's 4- Armando Galarraga allowed four runs on six hits and a walk over four innings; Brad Bergesen surrendered three runs on three hits over two innings
Sunday, March 11, 2012
One Week In...
With a week of Spring Training under their belts, the O's are a respectable 4-2-1, although wins and losses mean nothing at this point. Still, I'll take a meaningless win over a loss any day, and if the young players need to learn one thing, it's how to win consistently.
Here are a few highlights from the first seven games:
Here are a few highlights from the first seven games:
- 03/05- O's 3,Rays 1- Alfredo Simon allowed just one hit in two innings while fanning two
- - Pirates 10, O's 3 - Brian Matusz gives up three runs on six hits over two innings
- 03/06- Red Sox 5, O's 4 - Dylan Bundy pitched a scoreless fifth inning
- 03/07- O's 6, Twins 0 - Wei-Yin Chen threw two scoreless innings, striking out three
- 03/08- O's 2, Braves 1 - Jason Hammel tossed two scoreless innings, walking one and fanning one
- 03/09- O's 3, Rays 3 - Jake Arrieta pitches two scoreless innings, Nolan Reimold hit in face by pitch
- 03/10- O's 1, Phillies 0 - Matusz goes four scoreless frames, allowing three hits while fanning four, Chris Davis launches O's first homer of the season
Sunday, March 4, 2012
A New Season Is Finally Upon Us...
The O's kick off Spring Training with two games tomorrow, and I can't wait to see how this team shapes up over the next 30 pre-season games.
If you haven't been following the club over the off-season, the 2012 Orioles will look a bit different than last year. The Birds traded Jeremy Guthrie, their Opening Day starter the past few seasons. The starting rotation is up in the air at this point, with a dozen pitchers vying for one of five starting spots.
Pitching is the one area that the O's have consistently struggled with, but the Birds are hoping that there is strength in numbers and that a few of these pitchers step up and secure a role on this young staff.
The bullpen also looks to have improved, at least on paper. Buck Showalter will have his hands full over the next four weeks trying to determine the Opening Day roster, but all of the competition should be a good thing. No one is guaranteed a spot this year, which should make for an interesting pre-season. If the starting and relief pitching hold up this year, the Orioles should be able to at least contend in the AL East.
If you haven't been following the club over the off-season, the 2012 Orioles will look a bit different than last year. The Birds traded Jeremy Guthrie, their Opening Day starter the past few seasons. The starting rotation is up in the air at this point, with a dozen pitchers vying for one of five starting spots.
Pitching is the one area that the O's have consistently struggled with, but the Birds are hoping that there is strength in numbers and that a few of these pitchers step up and secure a role on this young staff.
The bullpen also looks to have improved, at least on paper. Buck Showalter will have his hands full over the next four weeks trying to determine the Opening Day roster, but all of the competition should be a good thing. No one is guaranteed a spot this year, which should make for an interesting pre-season. If the starting and relief pitching hold up this year, the Orioles should be able to at least contend in the AL East.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)