Earl Weaver Rules

Game 40 Recap-

Baltimore Orioles 6- Boston Red Sox 3

The Cardiac kids, aka the Baltimore Orioles, staged another comeback and rallied vs the Boston Red Sox bullpen for a exciting 6-3 victory Wednesday afternoon at Camden Yards in Baltimore. New staff ace Daniel Cabrera got the win(4-1) and continued his strong season after leading MLB in losses and temper tantrums. LF Jay Payton supplied the big blow with a grand slam in the 7th.

Cabrera battled all day vs the World Champs, going 7 innings and allowing 10 hits with 3 runs, He struck out 3 and most importantly, walked ZERO vs one of the more patient lineups in baseball. He have up single runs in the 1st(rbi single by 2b Dustin Pedroia), 5th(solo home run by C Jason Varitek) and 6th(homer by 3b Mike Lowell) but fought thru this tough lineup and looks like a grizzled, composed veteran.

The Orioles started to rally vs LH SP Jon Lester(3.95 era ) in the 6th when they scored 2 runs on a ground out and RF Nick Markakis single. Red Sox RH RP Craig Hansen could not get an out in the 7th after relieving LH specialist Javier Lopez. All star LH RP Hideki Okajima inherited a bases loaded jam and was greeted by Payton’s grand slam to left, quickly the Orioles led 6-3.

The Baltimore bullpen took over in the 8th with RH Matt Albers pitching a clean eighth. Closer LH George Sherrill gave up 2 hits between a double play and then got SS Alex Cora to foul out to left for his 15th save and a 2 game sweep of the World Champs by the Baltimore Orioles.

Star of the Game-

Cabrera- Once again, the big man was huge. Team MVP candidate and most consistent pitcher in the rotation.

Orioles Notes-

Both 3b Melvin Mora(right shoulder) and C Ramon Hernandez(left wrist) missed the game with a day off scheduled for Thursday, Manager Dave Trembley took advantage of the schedule to give them some rest…RH Pitcher Jim Hoey, who was 1-0 with a 6.00 era in 3 games, will miss the rest of the season following shoulder surgery. He also appeared in 23 games last season. The operation occurred May 4th.

Next Game-

Day off Thursday, then 3 game series vs Washington Nationals in inter-league play

Friday’s game- 7:05 start- Camden Yards

Orioles LH Garrett Olson(2-0) vs Nationals RH Shawn Hill(0-0)

Game 39 Recap-

The Baltimore Orioles  rebounded from a 3-0 1st inning deficit and beat one of the best pitchers in baseball to do it,beating the Boston Red Sox 5-4 at Camden Yards in Baltimore. After the Sox scored 3 in the first on a LF Manny Ramirez rbi single and 2 errors by 1b Kevin Millar and 3b Aubrey Huff, the Orioles had a 5-3 by the third off of Red Sox great Josh Beckett.

Orioles RH SP Jeremy Guthrie hung tough after the first and kept the team alive. Over his  6 innings,he gave up 8 hits,  3 runs(2 earned), 1 walks and struck out 7.  The Baltimore offense began to peck away at the lead in the 2nd on a rbi single from OF Jay Payton. The Orioles rally was complete in the 3rd after Millar drove in a run with a single. DH Luke Scott broke a long power drought with a 3 run homer off of Beckett(5  2/3 innings, 11 hits, 5 runs, 2 walks and 5 strike outs) to put Baltimore ahead to stay.

After Guthrie was pulled with 2 runners on in the 7th, LH relief specialist Jamie Walker walked DH David Ortiz to load the bases. RH Jim Johnson(1.10 era) put out the fire though getting Ramirez to ground into a double play and 3b Mike Lowell to fly out. Johnson battled but tired in the 8th, allowing a rare run on run scoring single by SS Alex Cora. Closer George Sherrill was called on to get a 5 out save, he quickly escaped the 8th on a fly out followed by a ground ball. He then got the 3 best hitters on the Red Sox out in order in the 9th with a strike out of Ortiz(ejected for arguing), fly out by Ramirez and a final K of 3b Mike Lowell for his 14th save and a huge Orioles win.

Star of the Game-  

Orioles pitchers—- Gave up 3 early and did not quit vs one of the best teams in MLB. Hats off to Guthrie, Walker, Johnson and Sherrill.

Orioles Notes- 

3b Melvin Mora was pulled from the lineup after he was struck by a ball on his right shoulder in the infield, it does not appear to be anything serious. Huff took his spot at Third…. Scott’s homer broke a 95 at bat homer drought….. Beckett had been 4-0 at Camden Yards

Next Game- 

3:05 Start -Camden Yards

Orioles Rh Daniel Cabrera(3-1) vs Red Sox LH Jon Lester(2-2)

Game 38 Recap-

RH SP Brian Bannister was the story Sunday afternoon, as he allowed the hot Orioles 2 hits over 8 innings to help the Kansas City Royals beat Baltimore 4-0 at Kauffman Stadium.  The win salvaged the final game of this 4 game series and was the first win by the Royals over the Orioles in 12 games dating back to July 12,2006.

Young LH Brian Burress(3.59 era) took the mound for Baltimore and continued his strong season with 6 innings plus of work, allowing 9 hits and 4 runs while striking out 1 and walking 2. The Royals touched him for single runs in the 2nd(RF Mark Teahen rbi single) and 3rd(DH Jose Guillen  run scoring double) for a 2-0 lead. Burress tired in the 7th and RH Dennis Sarfate(1.62 era) inherited  2 runners. Kansas City scored both with a ground out and single by 1b Billy Butler.

The Orioles did not mount much of an offense vs Bannister, he allowed a single to C Guillermo Quiroz in the 3rd and a two out single to LF Luke Scott in the 7th. His final stat line was 8 innings pitched,2 hits, 2 walks with 5 strike outs.  Still a productive series for Baltimore taking 3 out of 4 with some messy weather and tough situations.

Player of the Game-

Bannister- Won his 1st 4 starts then went 0 for 4 allowing 33 hits over 21 1/3 innings. Was the first 4 starts guy today, have everything working and Orioles batters off balance all day

Orioles Notes- 

SS Freddy Bynum batted leadoff today and went 0 for 4…… RF Nick Markakis has reached base in 35 of 37 games with 2 walks

Next Game- 

Monday Orioles are off…. Then 2 game series at Camden Yards vs the Boston Red Sox Tuesday and Wednesday

Game 37 Recap-

The Baltimore Orioles got some early offense and beat the Kansas City Royals in a horrible weather game, 6-5 Saturday Night in Kansas City. 1b Kevin Millar hit a 3 run homer in the 1st and LH Garrett Olson(2.95 era) worked 5 1/3 innings allowing 8 hits and 3 runs for his 2nd win. The game featured a rain delay of almost 2 hours, followed by steady rain with heavy winds almost all night.

After Millar’s homer, KC got a run in the bottom of the inning with a sac fly. In the 5th, Baltimore erupted for 3 runs off of starter Brett Tomko(5 1/3 innings,9 hits,6 runs,8 ks) on a sac fly and rbi hits by 3b Melvin Mora(single) and Cf Adam Jones(triple). The Royals scored 2 runs of a tiring Olson in the 6th on a ground out and single by DH Jose Guillen to make it 6-3.

Kansas City made it interesting when LH RP Jamie Walker could not record an out in the 7th and allowed a rbi single by LF Esteban German. However, RH Jim Johnson(.84 era) came in and continued his great season with 2 huge Ks and get a great play at 2b to end the inning by injury replacement Luis Hernandez.

George Sherrill made the 9th interesting with the 2 run cushion. He allowed a leadoff walk then struck out 2 batters. However, DH Billy Butler hit a double to deep left to make the margin 1 run,6-5. However, he got 2b Mark Grudzielanek to ground out and earn his 13th save.

Star of the Game-Millar- 3 hits, big 3 run homer

Store this away-Gut check win in horrible conditions on the road- lost 2 starters and continued to play quality baseball

Orioles Notes—

2b Brian Roberts was removed with a foot contusion after the rain delay, Hernandez entered the game, got 2 hits and some nice defensive plays… LF Jay Payton was ejected for arguing balls and strikes. Flu ridden Luke Scott took his spot… SS Freddy Bynum continues to look like a player, has athleticism and runs down balls

Next Game-

Sunday-Kauffman Stadium-Kansas City,Missouri

2:10

Orioles LH Brian Burres(3-3) vs Royals RH Brian Bannister(3-4)

Game 36 Recap-

Veteran RH SP Steve Trachsel pitched a workman like 5 1/3 innings and earned his 1st victory since April 4th to help the Baltimore Orioles beat the Kansas City Royals 7-4 Friday night at Kauffman Stadium. Trachsel gave up a 2 run homer to KC 3b Alex Gordon in the 1st inning but settled down and allowed the Orioles to mount some offense of their own.

KC starter RH Gil Meche was bit by the homer bug himself in the 3rd. 3b Melvin Mora took him deep with a 2 run shot to tie the game. Baltimore had the lead for good in he 5th when DH Aubrey Huff hit a 3 run homer for a 5-2 margin. That was more than enough for the struggling Orioles starter, as Trachsel(6.75 era)worked into the 6th allowing 5 hits and the 2 runs from the Gordon homer, he also walked 1 batter and struck out 2.

The Orioles set up men struggled a bit thru 2 2/3 innings but kept the lead and only allowed 2 runs. RH Matt Albers, LH Jamie Walker and RH Jim Johnson supported Trachsel and did the job. On top of that, the Baltimore offense produced 2 runs in the 7th with a wild pitch and 1b Kevin Millar rbi single. The KC runs came on Gordon (7th) and C John Buck(8th) rbi singles.

Orioles Closer LH George Sherrill, who entered the game going 11 for 13 in save situations, made it interesting in the 9th with the 3 run lead. He allowed the 1st two hitters to reach base but quickly struck out Gordon. Sherill then got a double play ground out to end the game, make it 12 for 14 in save opportunities and earn a victory for Baltimore.

Star of the Game- Trachsel– 1st win since April 4th. Needed this after two consecutive starts with 6 total innings!

Orioles Notes-

Huff has hit safely in 18 of 20 games….SS Freddy Bynum had another active night with 2 hits and 2 runs out of the 9 spot… Baltimore had 5 players with 2 hits

Next Game-

Saturday- Kauffman Stadium, Missouri

7:10

Orioles LH Garrett Olson(1-0) vs Royals RH Brett Tomko(1-3)

Game 35 Recap-

SP Daniel Cabrera continued his strong comeback season with one of his best starts of his career, helping the Baltimore Orioles beat the Kansas City Royals 4-1 in the opener of a 4 game series at Kauffman Stadium in Missouri Thursday night. The 6′9 RH who led the ML in losses last year and is known for his wildness and temper, pitched a complete game for his third win(3-1, 3.54 era) allowing 3 hits and 1 run while walking one batter and struck out 7.

Cabrera got all the help he needed over the first 3 innings with the Baltimore offense touching up young KC RH Luke Hochevar for 4 runs. The promising rookie was not bad but after a run scored in the 1st on a wild pitch, RF Nick Markakis hit a 3 run homer on in the 3rd. Hochevar pitched well outside of the pitch to Markakis, over 7 innings, 5 hits, 4 runs while walking 2 and striking out 5. 3 KC relievers followed him and did not allow a run over 2 innings.

The story of the game was clearly Daniel Cabrera, He carries a 4-0 career record vs the Royals(Orioles are 7-0 in those games). However, his lifetime era over 714 2/3 innings is 4.89 but vs KC it is 2.25. Tonight’s complete game was his 2nd over his career, as he won 7-1 vs the NY Yankees on September 28,2006. This,however, appears to be a more composed and consistent Cabrera, as he does not have the walk fests and melt downs we have seen earlier in his career. Manager Dave Trembley said after the game,”This is the best I’ve seen him pitch.”

Star of the Game-

Cabrera- clearly, maybe the easiest selection of the season. Will garner serious all star consideration if this season continues.

Orioles Notes-

The Orioles first game in 8 that was not decided by 2 runs or fewer….SS Freddie Bynum got the start and was the only Oriole with 2 hits, out of the 9 spot, he scored on Markakis’ homer

Next Game-

Friday Night- 8:10-Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City

Orioles RH Steve Trachsel(1-4) vs Royals RH Gil Meche(2-4)

Game 34 Recap-

Oakland Athletics 6- Baltimore Orioles 5 10 Innings

Mcafee Coliseum -Oakland,CA

Oakland 2b Mark Ellis hit the decisive walk off homer in the 10th to lift the A’s over the Baltimore Orioles in an afternoon affair Wednesday, 6-5. The Orioles continue to struggle and lose close games, this is their 3rd straight series loss, they have lost 7 of 8 and all seven were decided by 2 runs or less. This was an exciting game that featured some good work by both starters and some late inning heroics by the teams lineups.

RH SP Jeremy Guthrie was solid for Baltimore. The ex-Stanford pitcher threw 5 2/3 innings, allowed 5 hits and 4 runs while walking 3 and striking out 6. His early mistakes in the 1st(rbi ground out) and 3rd(1st ML homer by As C Kirk Suzuki) made it 3-0. The Os rallied for 2 runs in the 6th off of RH SP Joe Blanton.(5 2/3 innings,8 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks and strikeouts) 1b Kevin Millar and C Ramon Hernandez each hit rbi singles for the scores.

The As added a run to the lead in the 6th with 3b Jack Hannahan doubling for a 4-2 margin. Baltimore again rallied and took the lead with 3 runs vs one of the better RH RP in the AL, Andrew Brown.(1 run in 15 IP and .52 era on the season) 2b Brian Roberts drove home 2 runs with a single and 3b Melvin Mora doubled him home for a 5-4 Orioles lead.

Oakland did not go away and tied the game in the 8th. After an error, single and sacrifice bunt,DH Frank Thomas grounded into a perfect double play ball but Hannahan broke it up at 2b with a clean slide that allowed the tying run to score and make it 5-5. Both pens settled down and the game stayed at that score to the 10th.

After RH Lance Cormier got 2 quick outs,Oakland 2b Mark Ellis hit a drive into the left field stands for a home run and the Oakland victory. He was struggling prior to this at bat(0 for 17, had an 0 for 18 slump earlier this year) and was hitting 7th for the 2nd straight day. Tough,tough loss for the Orioles.

Star of the Game-

Ellis- You hit a walk off homer, you get this award!

Orioles Notes-

Blanton was 0 for 5 with a 1.74 era in 7 home starts prior to todays game, this was his ML high 9th start

Next Game-Series-

4 Game series at Kansas City at Kauffman Stadium-

Thursday-8:10 PM

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(2-1) vs Royals RH Luke Hochevar(2-1)

Game 33 Recap-

Oakland As 4-Baltimore Orioles 2

The Oakland A’s got 7th strong innings from RH SP Justin Duchscherer(2.45 era) and scored three seperate runs on outs to beat the Orioles 4-2 Tuesday night at McAfee Coliseum in Oakland. Oakland’s starter allowed 4 hits and 2 runs while walking 2 and striking out 4. Hard luck loser, LH SP Brian Burres(3.19 era) worked 5 1/3 innings, gave up 8 hits, 4 runs(3 earned) while walking and striking out 1.

Oakland got the jump with a single run in the 1st after O’s killer OF Emil Brown singled to score DH Frank Thomas. The margin was 3-0 in the 3rd after 2 rbi ground outs by SS Bobby Crosby and 2b Mark Ellis. Baltimore rallied in the 4th for 2 runs to cut the lead to 3 to 2. DH Aubrey Huff singled in 2b Brian Roberts and LF Luke Scott scored RF Nick Markakis with a sac fly.

Not much offense all night for the Orioles as they had 4 hits vs three Oakland pitchers. After the As scored a insurance run with a CF Rajai Davis sac fly in the 6th, Baltimore had 1 hit and a walk the rest of the game. LH Alan Embree and RH Santiago Casilla combined for 2 shut out innings and 2 Ks.

Star of the Game- Duchscherer— great start and continues his strong season

Orioles Notes-Team has lost 6 of 7…. Orioles might adjust the rotation with 2 off days next week(Monday and Thursday) plus the ineffectiveness of veteran RHP Steve Trachsel and DL stint of LH SP Adam Loewen

Next Game-

3:35 PM Wednesday

McaFee Coliseum-Oakland

Baltimore RH Jeremy Guthrie(1-3) vs Oakland RH Blanton(2-5)

Game 32 Recap-

Oakland As 2- Baltimore Orioles 1

The Oakland As got a clutch hit from OF Emil Brown in the 10th off of Baltimore RH RP Jim Johnson(.50 era on the season) for the decisive run in a well pitched game at McAfee Coliseum in Oakland. Both teams got great performances from young starting pitchers and the game moved quickly.

Baltimore LH Garrett Olson(2.08 era) was outstanding over 6 1/3 innings. He allowed 4 hits and 1 run while walking 1 and striking out 7 As. The Oakland run came in the 7th as Olson allowed a single and walk, RH Matt Albers entered the game and got a fly out. LH specialist Jamie Walker then gave up back to back infield singles to score the games 1st run.

Oakland LH Dana Eveland surpassed young Olson’s performance and held the Orioles hitters to 3 hits and did not allow a runner to 2nd in his 7 innings. He walked 4 and struck out 4 as well. Oakland’s bullpen got the game to closer RH Huston Street and Baltimore rallied for a run in the 9th. After 3b Melvin Mora narrowly missed a homer, settling for a double, he moved to 3rd on a 1b Kevin Millar fly out. C Ramon Hernandez grounded out to SS to score Mora and tie the game.

The 10th started well for Baltimore RH Jim Johnson as he retired the 1st two batters without incident. However, 1b Daric Barton singled and moved to 2nd after DH Frank Thomas walked. Brown, who is hitting .464 with runners in scoring position and .206 with the bases empty) singled to center for the decisive run and a 2-1 Oakland victory.

Stars of the Game-

Both starting pitchers— Baltimore’s Olson and Oakland’s Eveland— 1 run over 13 1/3 innings in the AL is tremendous

Orioles Notes–

Good news on the injury front as Dr. James Andrews,noted sports surgeon, found no structural damage with LH SP Adam Loewen’s elbow. He is on schedule to be back at the original projection of 8 weeks….. Tuesday’s starter, LH Brian Buress, carries a 6.94 era vs the Tampa Rays and a .46 vs all other ML teams…CF Adam Jones broke a 0 for 14 slump with a single to lead off the 8th

Next Game-

10:05- McAfee Coliseum-Oakland

Orioles LH Brian Burres(3-2) vs Oakland RH Justin Duchscherer(2-1)

Game 31 Recap-

Los Angeles Angels LH SP Joe Saunders was not his best but was good enough today with some offensive support to beat the Baltimore Orioles in Anaheim Sunday, 6-5. The teams combined for 6 runs in the 1st inning as both Saunders and Os starter, veteran RH Steve Trachsel, got hit hard.

The Orioles quickly scored 2 runs in the 1st after 1b Kevin Millar and C Ramon Hernandez produced rbi singles. However,the joy was short lived as Angels lead-off man and DH Gary Matthews Jr hit a homer.  After 3 more hits, CF Tori Hunter connected for a 3 run shot and it was now 4-2 Los Angeles.

3b Melvin Mora homered in the 3rd for the Os and they were within a run at 4-3. However, Trachsel quickly gave up 2 runs on another homer, this time by 3b Rob Quinlan, this time with a runner on. The veteran right hander was gone in the 3rd and has a 7.42 era on the season.

Saunders, 5-0 on the season going into Sunday, did not have his A+ stuff but was effective and only another rbi hit by Millar crossed the plate during his mound appearance. He clearly did not have his best stuff but battled and got the team 5 and allowed the pen to set up with some order.

The Angels bullpen is among the best in the game and the group allowed only a homer by RF Nick Markakis over 4 innings. The Orioles relief corps, led by RHs Lance Cormier, Dennis Sarfate and Jim Johnson, one upped them and allowed no further scoring. Unfortunately, the margin of one run was enough and Los Angeles closer RH Francisco Rodriquez closed out the 9th with his 13th save.

Star of the Game- Hunter, whose 3 run homer set the tone for the game and Trachsel’s rough day

Orioles Notes- 

Trachsel has allowed 20 earned runs in 21 innings over his last 5 starts….2b Brian Roberts had a tough day on the bases, he was thrown out trying to steal third in the 1st and was picked off at the 1b in the 9th by C Jeff Mathis. Roberts has stolen 34 of 37 bases since the start of the 2006 season.

Next Game/Series

Orioles travel to Oakland for a 3 game series

Monday- 10:05 Orioles LH Garrett Olson(0-0) vs As LH Dana Eveland(3-2)

Tuesday-10:05 Baltimore LH Brian Burress(3-2) vs Oakland RH Justin Duchscherer(2-1)

Wednesday-3:35 Orioles RH Jeremy Guthrie(1-3) vs As RH Joe Blanton(2-5)

Game 30 Recap-

Los Angeles Angels 3-Baltimore Orioles 1

Los Angeles Angels RH SP Jon Garland was the story in California, as he kept the Baltimore Orioles off balance all day and posted the victory, 3-1. The young veteran pitched 8 innings, allowed 3 hits, 1 run while walking and striking out 1. He credited pitching coach Mike Butcher’s DVD study and side sessions for his performance. He had allowed 16 earned runs in 17 1/3 innings at home prior to Saturday’s start.

In the 2nd inning, DH Aubrey Huff singled and was driven in by LF Luke Scott’s 2 out single to make it 1-0 Baltimore. Unfortunately,Garland retired the next 13 consecutive batters. Melvin Mora’s one out double in the 7th was the only other Orioles hit.

Baltimore RH Daniel Cabrera also pitched well but was done in by Angels small ball and situational hitting. Over his 7 1/3 innings, he allowed 6 hits, 3 runs and struck out 6. He continued to show improved control as he held down a selective Los Angeles lineup to 2 walks.

The Angels scored 2 runs in the 6th after a HBP and walk, DH Reggie Willits drove in the 1st run with a single and RF Gary Matthews followed with a sac fly for a 2-1 Los Angeles lead. In the 8th, the Angels scored a huge run on a Matthews sac fly after a single,sacrifice and wld pitch. The 2 run led was more than enough for closer Francisco Rodriquez as he retired the side in order for a 3-1 Angels victory and his ML leading 12th save.

Star of the Game-Garland- If he pitches like this, Angels could win World Series

Making Progress? I continue to harp on the maturation of Cabrera. Although he lost today, he has improved the control and is keeping the Os in games. Prior to this start, he carried a 6.55 era vs the Angels. 2 of his ML 18 leading losses from 07 came at their hands and he allowed 11 earned runs in 11 innings. His growth is a key to the success of the Orioles going forward.

Next Game-

Sunday-3:35 PM- Angel Stadium of Anaheim

Orioles RH Steve Trachsel(1-3) vs Los Angeles LH Joe Saunders(5-0)

Game 29 Recap-

Baltimore Orioles 4- Los Angeles Angels 3

Baltimore RH SP Jeremy Guthrie won for the 1st time in 16 starts as the Orioles got 2 rbi apiece from RF Nick Markakis and 3b Melvin Mora to beat the Angels in Los Angeles, 4-3. Guthrie,who has not pitched poorly with a 4.06 era, was strong over 7 innings, allowing 3 hits, 2 runs while walking 2 and striking out 6.

The Game was even after the 1st when both teams scored a run in the frame. Markakis homered and red hot Angels 1b Casey Kotchman answered with an rbi single. In the 3rd, the Os struck for 2 runs with Markakis producing a run on a ground out and Mora bunting home a run. Mora’s rbi single in the 5th made it 4-1 Orioles. The Angels answered with a run in the 6th when CF Tori Hunter singled for a 4-2 game.

Guthrie was outstanding and the story of the game. His mound counterpart, Jered Weaver, was also strong, lasting 7 innings, giving up 6 hits, 4 runs and walking 2 while striking out 6. After Guthrie, Orioles manager Dave Trombley went to his set up tandem of RH Chad Bradford and LH Jamie Walker in the 8th for a shut out inning.

Orioles closer LH George Sherrill went to the mound in the 9th. He quickly gave up 2 singles and a run on a fielders choice. He then settled down and sandwiched an intentional walk around 2 pop ups to end the game and earn his ML leading 11th save(tied with Angels Francisco Rodriquez)

Star of the Game-Guthrie— for obvious reasons! Team needed a good, quality start as well and he more than provided it!

Orioles Notes-
2b Brian Roberts was 0 for 5 with 2 strikeouts ending an 11 game hit streak….. RH RP Randor Bierd was placed on the DL with right shoulder pain, he is expected to miss at least a month. RH Lance Cormier was recalled fron Triple A

Next Game-

Saturday-Angel Stadium of Anaheim

3:45

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(2-0) vs Angels RH John Garland(3-3)

Game 28 Recap-

Tampa Rays 4- Baltimore Orioles 2

Behind a solid start by RH SP Matt Garza and some strong bullpen work(3 scoreless innings), the Rays won today 4-2 at Camden Yards vs the Orioles. Baltimore has now lost 4 of 5 and looks like a tired team that needs a boast. The Adam Loewen injury situation does not help with such a young developing team.

Orioles LH SP Brian Burres battled and kept the team in the game for 6+ innings, allowing 6 hits, 4 runs( 3 earned) while walking 3 and striking out 6. He allowed a run in the 1st(1b Carlos Pena rbi ground out) and 4th(solo homer by DH Johnny Gomes). He walked the leadoff man in the 7th and a single followed that. LH specialist Jamie Walker entered the game and got an out before LF Carl Crawford’s big 2 run single.

The Rays bullpen, one of the more improved units in all of MLB, took over as top set up man RH Dan Wheeler pitched 2 shut out innings. Potential hall of fame closer, RH Troy Percival, pitched the 9th for his 6th save. It was a historic night as Percival moved into 10th place on the all time saves list.

Star of the Game-Garza- with his 1st win of the season— strong talent who has missed time with a nerve injury

Orioles Notes-2b Brian Roberts has a 11 game hit streak…. Burres has an 0-3 record with a 9.64 ERA in 11 games vs Tampa Bay

Next Game-

at Los Angeles Angels- Friday-10:05

Orioles RH Jeremy Guthrie(0-3) vs Angels RH Jered Weaver(2-3)

Game 27 Recap-

Tampa Rays 8- Baltimore Orioles 1

The surging Tampa Rays rode the strong pitching of promising RH SP Andy Sonnastine and a 5 run 7th inning to defeat the Baltimore Orioles in the 2nd game of a 3 game set at Tropicana Field in Tampa.

With the Orioles facing some adversity with pitching injuries and ineffectiveness, young RH Matt Albers kept his team in the game with 6 workman like innings, he allowed 4 hits, 3 runs, walking 1 and striking out 2. The big blow was a 2 run homer by DH Eric Hinske in the 4th to put the Rays ahead 3-1 for good. Tampa scored in the 2nd after a RF Gabe Gross sac fly, the Orioles answered in the 3rd on an rbi single by 2b Brian Roberts.

Albers tired and was pulled after the 6th, Orioles RH Bob McCrory made his ML debut and was hit hard and often. Over 1/3 of an inning, he allowed 2 hits, 4 runs and walked 2. The 5 run Tampa 7th inning was hi-lighted by a 1b Carlos Pena and C Dioner Navarro’s matching 2 run singles. CF BJ Upton added another rbi on a single. After the damage and inning was over, it was 8-1 Rays.

Star of the Game- Sonnastine went to 4-1 with this dominant performance. Over 8 innings,he allowed 6 hits and 1 run while walking 2 and striking out 5.

Things will get better! -RH McCrory’s era is 108.00

Orioles Notes-

Team designated RHP Greg Aquino for assignment to make room for McCrory… SS Brian Fahey was assigned to Triple A Norfolf… Good news on the medical front regarding LH SP Adam Loewen. No injury shown up on his tests, he will meet with noted sports surgeon Dr. James Andrews for further evaluation. Andrews performed the surgery that ended Loewen’s ‘07 season.

Next Game-

Thursday 12:35 Tropicana Field- series conclusion

Orioles LH Brian Buress(3-1) vs Rays RH Matt Garza(0-0)

Game 26 Recap-

A tired and taxed Baltimore pitching staff received a huge lift when call up starter, LH Garrett Olsen got the game to the 7th inning and helped the Orioles beat the Ray 7-4 at Camden Yards in Baltimore.  The team had faced 4 games in 3 days and without young LH Adam Loewen(elbow injury) available, a strong start was much needed.

The Orioles took a 7-o lead into the 7th after scoring 2 runs in the 2, 1 in the third and 4 big runs in the 6th.  DH Aubrey Huff led the way with a home run and 2 rbi, 3b Melvin Mora also had 2 rbi.  Young Rays RH Jason Hammel had a tough night, over 2 2/3, the Orioles collected 6 hits, 3 runs, while walking 4.

Olsen was the story for Baltimore.  They need him to help the pen with some solid innings and he did not disappoint.   Over his much needed 6 2/3 innings, he allowed 4 hits, 2 earned runs while walking 6 and striking out 5. His night was great and although he gave up the 1st run in the 7th, he helped the team a lot tonight. RH Randor Bierd entered the inherited mess and got thru to the 8th with a 7-3 lead.

Veterans RH Chad Bradford and  LH Jaimie Walker pitched into the 9th and turned the game over to closer George Sherrill. Sherill got 3 of 4 hitters out and earned his 10th save.

Star of the Game-– Garrett Olsen- picked up the team tonight, great, great job

Oriole Notes-

Olson was 1-3 in 7.99 era in his appearances  in 2007…..  C Ramon Hernandez is 7 for 14 vs Hammel

Next Game-

Camden Yards-7:05

Orioles RH Matt Albers(2-0) vs Rays RH Andy Sonnanstine(3-1)

Monday’s Chicago White Sox-Baltmore Orioles game was suspended by heavy rain with the score tied in the 12, 3-3. The game will be resumed at date to be determined.

Orioles News-

LH SP Adam Loewen was scheduled to have both an MRI and Cat scan on his injured elbow in Baltimore, the team will have an update soon after. The Orioles have called up Triple A pitcher Garrett Olsen to take his spot in the rotation.

Orioles probable pitching match-ups for Tampa Bay series….All Games at Camden Yards

Tuesday-7:05-LHP Garrett Olsen(0-0)vs TB RH Jason Hammel(2-1)

Wednesday-7:05-RH Jim Johnson(0-0) vs Rays RH Andy Sonnanstine(3-1)

Thursday-12:35-RH Steve Trachsel(1-3) vs TB RH Matt Garza(0-0)

Game 25 Recap-

1b Paul Konerko, in a season long slump hitting .197 with 3 homers, hit 2 home runs today and RH Jose Contreras pitched 6+ strong innings to lead the White Sox to a 6-1 at US Cellular Field in Chicago. The two teams play the series finale Monday after splitting the 1st two games.

Orioles RH Jeremy Guthrie started the game and allowed 3 runs over his 5 innings, while giving up 5 hits, walking 2 and striking out 5. 2b Brian Roberts continued his recent strong play with a homer in the 3rd but Konerko homered again in the 6th to make it 2-1 White Sox. A throwing error by SS Brian Fahey on a fielder’s choice allowed 2 more runs to score and it was quickly 4-1. The White Sox added 2 more runs in the 7th vs the Orioles bullpen on a hit batter with the bases loaded and a fielders choice.

Star of the Game-Konerko with 2 homers

Orioles Notes-

Roberts led the Os with 2 hits….1b Kevin Millar took a day off with Aubrey Huff playing 1st while Jay Payton getting a start, taking his spot in LF… Contreras(6 2/3 innings,5 hits,1 run,3 walks, 3 Ks) earned his 2nd win of the season vs the Orioles in 2 starts

Next Game-

2:05 US Cellular Field-Chicago

Baltimore RH Daniel Cabrera(2-0) vs White Sox RH Javier Vazquez(3-2)

Game 24-

Chicago White Sox 6- Baltimore Orioles 5

The White Sox rode the advantage of their starting pitching matchup and some timely hitting to gain a double header split vs the Orioles Saturday Night at US Cellular Field in Chicago, 6-5.

Chicago Ace LH Mark Buehrle took the mound and was strong thru his 6 innings of work, allowing only 3 hits and 3 runs while striking out 5 and walking 2. The Orioles jumped out to a 2-0 lead when C Ramon Hernandez drove in 2 with double in the 1st. Chicago quickly answered with 2 runs of their own after an rbi ground out and run scoring double vs Orioles veteran RH SP Steve Trachsel. Tracs struggled all night with his control, over 3 innings plus he walked 5, gave up 5 hits,5 runs(4 earned) and struck out 2.

In the 3rd, White Sox LF Carlos Quentin drove in another run with a double and Orioles error on the play to make it 3-2. Trachsel was done for the night after RF Nick Swisher’s 2 run homer in the 4th. Promising Orioles RH Jim Johnson(.45 era) entered the game and pitched 2 hit ball over 2 1/3 innings with 2 Ks. 1b Kevin Millar homered off of Buehrle in the 6th to make it, 5-3 Chicago.

LH RP Boone Logan entered the game and the Orioles rallied with 2 more runs on a run scoring triple by 2b Brian Roberts followed 3b Melvin Mora’s double to tie the game at 5. Unfortunately, RH Randor Bierd allowed 2 walks and a single in the 9th bring OF Brian Anderson to the plate with the bases loaded. He quickly hit a shallow single for the winning margin,6-5.

Orioles Notes-

SS Eider Torres’ single in the 7th was his 1st ML hit

Game 23 Recap-

The day after learning promising LH SP Adam Loewen might be out for a while, fellow LH SP Brian Burres picked up the Orioles with a huge performance in the 1st game of Saturday’s double header in Chicago. Burres worked 8 strong innings, allowing 3 hits, k-ing 4 versus one of the better hitting clubs in the AL, The White Sox.

The Orioles got all the runs they would need when backup C Guillermo Quiroz hit a 2 run homer off of White Sox LH SP John Danks in the 6th. That was the Chicago SP only mistake over his 6 1/3 innings,giving up only 4 hits, those 2 runs and striking out 4. Baltimore scored 3 more runs in the 9th with an error allowing one to score and 2b Brian Roberts hitting a run double to make it 5-0.

RH Matt Albers relieved Burres and allowed 2 hits and walk to load the bases. Orioles Closer George Sherrill entered the game and after hitting his 1st batter for the White Sox only run, got 3b Joe Crede to fly out to end the game and earn his 9th save.

Star of the Game-Burres- Huge performance and much needed with the bad news on Loewen and overuse of the pen

Down Pour did in Friday Night game….Day-Night double header Saturday

Game #1

Noon-

Orioles LH Brian Burress(2-1) vs White Sox LH John Danks(2-1)

6 pm-

Baltimore RH Steve Trachsel(1-3) vs Chicago RH Nick Masset(NR)

Friday night series opener in Chicago is being delayed… more than likely will rescheduled

Orioles DLed LH Adam Loewen with his elbow issue. This is not good, this is the same elbow that required surgery during last season with a stress fracture. No word on who will take his spot, long men Matt Albers or Jim Johnson might be short term answers. Team might want to call someone up or make a trade, this could be season ending.

Game 22 Recap-

Baltimore Orioles 8- Seattle Mariners 7

The Orioles continued to show spunk and fire, rallying from a 5-0 deficit to win the game and series,8-7. Baltimore scored 3 big runs in the 7th and all star 2b Brian Roberts hit the decisive homer in the 8th.

Orioles SP LH Adam Loewen was lit up over 2 2/3 innings of work, allowing 4 hits,3 walks and 5 runs. Seattle 3b Adrian Beltre took him deep in the 2nd for a 1-0 lead. The Ms added 4 more runs in the 3rd on 2 sac flies and a 2 run double by DH Jose Vidro.

To make matters worse, post game Loewen admitted to pitching with forearm stiffness and might be DLed or face further tests. He said he would travel with the team to Chicago and maybe return to Baltimore for more evaluation. The promising LH is coming off of elbow surgery and any injury to him would be devastating to Orioles long and short term. However, if he is hurt, they need to shut him down and get this fixed.

The Orioles showed signs of life off of Mariners LH SP Jarrod Washburn with LF Jay  Payton hitting a solo shot to make it 5-1. They scored again in the 5th to chase Washburn, then added another run in the 6th for a 5-3 score. Ex O’s LH RP Arthur Rhodes entered the game in the 7th and allowed all 3 batters to reach with 2 hits and walk. He was relieved by RH Mark Lowe and as Seattle Manager John McLaren went to the mound, he was ejected for arguing balls and strikes.

Baltimore then errupted for 4 runs with a sac fly(1b Kevin Millar),run scoring single (DH Aubrey Huff) and double(CF Adam Jones) to make it 7-5, Os. RH Sean Green entered the mess and got two outs to escape any further damage.

After some great pen work by the Orioles relief corps,RH Matt Albers tired and was picked up by LH Jamie Walker. Unfortunately, Mariners superstar RF Ichiro picked up his pitch to the right field stands with a 2 run homer to tie the game at 7.  However, Roberts came thru huge with his lead off homer in the 8th for the decisive run. RH Chad Bradford gave up a hit in the 8th but got 3 outs.  Closer LH George Sherrill allowed a lead off hit but got a quick double play and then another ground out to end the game and get his 8th save .

Star of the Game- The Orioles pen… allowed only a homer to Ichiro over 6 2/3 innings….hats off to RH Randor Bierd, Albers, Walker, Bradford and Sherrill.

Orioles Notes- 

Loewen has a career 10.80 era in 4 games vs Seattle… CF Jones had 3 hits and 3 rbi

Next Game-

8:11 US Cellular Field-Chicago

Baltimore LH Brian Burress(2-1) vs White Sox LH Mark Buehrle(1-2)

Game 21 Recap-

Baltimore Orioles 3- Seattle Mariners 2

RF Nick Markakis found a happy ending to his rough night with a 8th inning homer for winning margin at Safeco Field,3-2. Markakis was 0 for 3 with 2 bad looking strikeouts and an rbi ground out before his big homer.

RH Daniel Cabrera continued his recent run of solid pitching with 8 innings of work while allowing 5 hits and striking out 5 with no walks. The Mariners scored single runs in the 1st(LF Raul Ibanez sac fly) and 4th(DH Jose Vidro ground out) to go up 2-0.

Mariners RH Carlos Silva, was looking to go 4-0 but the Orioles finally broke thru in the 6th with 2 runs. Melvin Mora’s rbi triple and Markakis ground out tied the game at 2. Silva,who deserved better, tired and was gone after a walk to led off the 7th. His final line was 6 innings,6 hits,2 runs, 2 walks and 4 strike outs. RH RP Sean Green pitched a strong 1 1/3 and Mariners Manager John McLaren went LH vs LH when he brought in LH RP Ryan Rowland-Smith. He was 3 for 17 vs LH and Markakis made that 4 for 18 with a shot to right.

Orioles closer LH George Sherrill took the mound in the 9th and allowed a leadoff single but then retired the next 3 batters with out incident for his 7th save.

Star of the Game-RH SP Daniel Cabrera– Repeat after me, zero walks, I win, zero walks, I win! This kid has talent, he trusts it, he is dangerous!

Next Game-

10:10 Safeco Field

LH Adam Loewen(0-1) vs LH Jarrod Washburn(1-3)

Orioles Notes-

Cabera is now 5-1 vs Seattle in his career, 4-0 at Safeco

Game 20 Recap-

Seattle Mariners 4- Baltimore Orioles 2

Orioles wasted a great pitching performance by RH Jeremy Guthrie to lose a tough game to open a 3 game series vs Seattle at Safeco Field, 4-2. The game was tied in the 8th and the Mariners rallied for 2 runs in the inning for the winning margin.

After the Orioles took the lead in the 1st on another rbi hit by 1b Kevin Millar to make it 1-0, Seattle responded. Guthrie was outstanding over his 7 2/3 innings of work. However he aallowed a single run in the 1st after M’s Superstar Ichiro Suzuki led off the game with a triple and scored Seattle’s 1st run on a ground out.

Mariners RH Felix Hernandez was tough as always but the Orioles made him work early in the game and he escaped some decent jams but also racked up a big pitch count. After a throwing error by C Ramon Hernandez made it 2-1 Seattle in the 5th, Felix gave the run back with a homer by Baltimore DH Aubrey Huff making it a new ballgame at 2. Hernandez pitched thru the 7th with a final line of 6 hits, 2 runs ,3 walks and 7 strike outs. LH ex Oriole Arthur Rhodes threw a clean 8th inning.

The Mariners took the game in the 8th inning. After a single and 2 walks, DH Jose Vidro’s rbi single made it 4-2. RH Dennis Sarfate got the last out of the inning in relief of Guthrie, who deserved better. Over 7 and 2/3 innings, he allowed 5 hits, 4 runs(3 earned) while walking 4 and striking 5. Mariners All Star Closer JJ Putz, among the elite closers in the game, entered the game fresh off of a DL stint and was devastating in the 9th with 2 strike outs for his 2nd save of the season after allowing a leadoff double.

2nd Guess-Manager Dave Trembley allows Guthrie to stay in the game at 100+ pitches with his bullpen fresh after an off day. Tough call, that why he get paid the big $$$$$

Next Game-

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(1-0) vs Mariners RH Carlos Silva(3-0)

Orioles Notes-Mariners honored ex Catcher John Marzano, who died tragically over the weekend, with a pregame ceremony. He played in Seattle from 96-98.

Game 19 Recap-

New York Yankees 7- Baltimore Orioles 1

The New York Yankees put together some clutch hits plus a strong and much needed strong pitching performance from veteran LH Andy Pettitte to beat the Orioles at Camden Yards, 7-1. The Os were looking for a sweep but battled rain delays and a strong, veteran Yankees club. The big story of this game was an apparent quad injury to the reigning AL MVP Alex Rodriquez. The injury did not appear to be serious and he was planning on missing some games this week with family issues. This would be a big blow to the Yankees if serious, in that they have had Captain and SS Derek Jeter as a well as long time C Jorge Posada miss time with injuries.

Long time NYY SP, LH Andy Pettitte, was the clear star of the game as he completely shut down the improved Orioles lineup. Over 7 dominant innings, he allowed 4 hits while striking out 5. The key being zero walks, as the new patient Baltimore approach did not reap any benefits. The Yankees took a 2-0 lead in the 2nd on rbi doubles by Rodriquez and Hideki Matsui. Veteran Os RH Steve Trachsel competed and kept the game at that score til he ran into major trouble in the 7th. Tiring, he was relieved by sidearming RH specialist Chad Bradford who then gave up a two run homer to Johnny Damon. Steve’s final line stands at 6 1/3 innings pitched, 7 hits, 3 earned runs with 3 walks and 5 strikeouts.

The Orioles touched Yankees phenom RH Joba Chamberlain for his 2nd earned run in 30 1/3 career innings with a Brian Roberts sacrifice fly in the 8th, to make it, 4-1. Jeter put the game away with a bases loaded, 3 run double off of LH George Sherrill in the 9th to put the game out of reach. Mariano Rivera pitched the ninth without incident to close the game.

Star of the Game- Clearly,NYY SP Andy Pettitte. Yankees have made some tremendous personnel mistakes the past 5-6 seasons, as a Red Sox fan, the biggest was letting this guy leave for Houston. Big game, big time pitcher who knows when and how to win in big spots. Losing streak stopper and leader.

Orioles Notes-

Backup catcher Guillermo Quiroz got a rare start in relief of Ramon Hernandez and hit in a double while scoring the Os only run

Next Game-

Off Monday- on the road in Seattle and Chicago this week

Tuesday-10:10 start-Safeco Field

Orioles LH Adam Loewen(1-0) vs Mariners RH Felix Hernandez(2-0)

Team is off Monday and on the road with trips to Seattle and Chicago

Tuesday-10:10- LH Adam Loewen(1-0) vs Mariners RH Felix Hernandez(2-0)

Wednesday-10:10- RH Jeremy Guthrie(0-1) vs Seattle RH Carlos Silva(3-0)

Thursday-10:10-RH Daniel Cabrera(1-0) vs Mariners R.A. Dickey(0-1)

Friday-8:11 LH Brian Burres(2-1)vs White Sox LH Mark Buehrle(1-2)

Saturday-7:05- vs Chicago White Sox

Sunday- 2:05-vs Chicago White Sox

Game 18 Recap-

Baltimore Orioles 6-New York Yankees 0

Baltimore won the 2nd game of this weekends series with the New York Yankees behind strong pitching from starter Brian Burress and young reliever Jim Johnson, 6-0. Offensively, the Os made Yankees pitchers work, drawing 8 walks( 5 from rookie starter, Ian Kennedy) and making them pay with clutch hits.

The Orioles jumped on young Kennedy in the 2nd with a double by SS Brian Fahey making it 1-0. 1b Kevin Millar continued his strong April with a homer to make it 2-0. C Ramon Hernandez 2 run double made it 4-0 and the Yankees rookie starter was gone with 2 2/3 innings of work, allowing 5 hits, 4 runs , while walking 5 and striking out 4. Kennedy really struggled as he fell behind the count on 11 of the 17 hitters he faced.

Baltimore RH Brian Burress was solid for 5 2/3 vs a very good, veteran hitting lineup in the Yankees. With his 88 pitches, he allowed 5 hits, walked 4 and mixed in 2 strikeouts. Pleasant Surprise RH RP Jim Johnson finished the final 3 1/3 innings allowing 1 hit over his workload. His control was outstanding, with 26 of his 41 pitches being strikes. Johnson has allowed zero runs over his 9 innings this season to really help the Orioles pen.

Offensively, the Os were led by 1b Millar with 2 hits including his homer. SS Fahey added 2 hits and an rbi while Hernandez chipped in 2 hits with an rbi and walk. The entire lineup put together quality at bats and made the Yankees pitchers work. Baltimore goes for the 3 game sweep Sunday.

Next Game-

Sunday-1:35 PM

Orioles RH Steve Trachsel(1-2) vs Yankees LH Andy Pettitte(2-1)

Orioles Notes-

LF Luke Scott extended his 7 game hit streak…. Orioles 1st shutout since September 13 of last season, when they beat the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, 4-0

Game 17 Recap-

Orioles won the opener of a 3 game weekend series tonight with the New York Yankees via a solid, team effort,8-2. What turned out to be a low,scoring affair with each club scoring single runs in the 4th(Orioles on a double play) and 5th(Yankees on a Melvin Mora throwing error), turned into a rout with the Os scoring 7 runs in the 6th to blow the game open.

Rookie Yankees RH Phil Hughes continued his rough freshman campaign with his third loss with no wins. He left after 5 1/3 innings, allowed 9 hits, 5 runs,2 walks and struck out 1. RH Reliever Latroy Hawkins entered the game and threw some gas on the fire allowing 3 more rus to make it 8-1. Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera was strong and kept his walks to a minimum, his key! Over his 6 innings, the Yankees had 6 hits, scored 2 runs , drew 2 walks and struck out 3 times. Cabrera, for all of his wildness and faults, has had some success vs the Pinstripes over his career. The Os pen got solid work out 3 members tonight to pitch the final 3 innings, RH Randor Bierd, LH Jaime Walker and long man Matt Albers all looked strong.

Orioles offensively were led by RF Nick Markakis(Os All Star?), who had 3 hits and a rbi, LF Luke Scott (2 hits, rbi) and DH Aubrey Huff, on base all night with 2 walks and a hit. Pinch hitter Jay Payton had the biggest hit of the night with a 2 run hit in the 6th to put the game out of reach.

Store this away…. Orioles will win a lot of games if they continue to get solid starting pitching. Cabrera has talent but needs to throw strikes and work on his emotional control. He is a key! Pen is improved with a legit closer in Sherrill and the offense is making pitchers work. I killed this team in my season preview and they have been surprisingly competitive.

Next game-

Saturday-7:05

Orioles LH Brian Burres (1-1)vs Yankees RH Ian Kennedy(0-1)

Game 16 Recap-

The Baltimore Orioles came back against one of the best bullpens in the AL last night to post a exciting victory over the Chicago White Sox, 6-5 in ten innings. 1b Kevin Millar, who walked to leadoff the inning, scored from second on a rbi single by CF Adam Jones for the decisive run. New Os closer George Sherrill(1-0) got the win with a scoreless tenth.

Both starting pitchers had good performances and quality starts. White Sox right hander Gavin Floyd continued his strong opening month with 6 innings of 2 hit ball, allowing 2 runs(on a Nick Markakis home run), walking 2 and k-ing 4. Orioles right hander Mark Guthrie matched the 6 innings allowing 6 hits, 4 runs(3 earned), walking 1, striking out 2 and allowing 2 solo shots.(OF Carlos Quentin and 3b Joe Crede)

With Guthrie out after giving up the 2 solo shots, the Os pen entered with the Sox up, 4-2 in the 7th. Quentin took RH RP Dennis Sarfate deep in the 8th for his 2nd homer in consecutive innings to make it,5-2. Luke Scott made it 5-3 with a clutch double in the 8th of White Sox new comer RH Scott Linebrink.

After LH RP Jaime Walker held the Sox scoreless in the 9th, White Sox All Star closer, RH Bobby Jenks, entered the game. The Os brought the crowd out of its seats with 2 runs on an rbi double by 2b Brian Roberts and a clutch single by 3b Melvin Mora to tie the game at 5-5.

Orioles Notes-

Jenks has 13 career blown saves, 3 have occurred at Camden Yards…. RF Nick Markakis has reached base in 15 of the 16 Baltimore games

Next Game- Series Starters-

Friday-7:05

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(0-0) vs Yankees RH Phil Hughes(0-2)

Saturday-7:05

Baltimore RH Brian Burres(1-1) vs NY RH Ian Kennedy(0-1)

Sunday-1:35

Orioles RH Steve Trachsel(1-2) vs Yankees LH Andy Pettitte(2-1)

Game 15 Recap

Orioles wasted a good starting pitching performance by young LH Adam Loewen and lost a tough one to open this 2 game series at Camden Yards , 3-1. Cuban legend Jose Contreras kept the Os at bay all night and was solid for 7 innings. The crafty White Sox veteran allowed 4 hits(3 consecutive in the fourth) while striking out 6 over 7 innings. Jim Thome supplied all the needed offense with a 3 run homer in the 1st inning.

O’s manager Dave Trembley hoped to get a strong innings eating peformance out of his starter after some rough work by his rotation and Loewen responded. The youngster went 6 innings, allowing 6 hits, the 3 earned runs(all on the Thome HR) while walking 5 and striking out 3. He was added by the defense of his outfielders as both RF Nick Markakis and LF Luke Scott had big assists to throw out runners, Scott got his at home plate in the 5th and Nick at 3rd during the 3rd.

Not much offense by either club after the Thome homer as the Orioles strung together 3 consecutive singles in the 4th to score Markakis on an infield hit by Aubrey Huff. Orioles right handed relievers Jim Johnson and Chad Bradford each backed Loewen with an inning of work and a strike out. The excellent White Sox bullpen took over the game in the 8th and it was lights out as set up RH Scott Linebrink worked the 8th and tough White Sox closer RH Bobby Jenks got his 5th save in the 9th.

Store this away-

Adam Loewen has improved but he must work on two things to really be the man– walks(11/12 K/BB ratio) and home runs(4 over 15 2/3). These are vital in the offensively explosive AL.

Next Game-

Thursday-7:05 at Baltimore

Orioles RH Jeremy Guthrie vs Chicago’s RH Gavin Floyd(2-0)