Earl Weaver Rules

Game 54 Recap-

In what was a tight game, the World Champion Boston Red Sox punished the Orioles for some late inning mistakes and pulled out a tight 6-3 win at Camden Yards Saturday Night. Certain Hall of Famer Red Sox LF Manny Ramirez hit his 500th home run in the 7th inning for an insurance run and joined 23 other major leaguers in accomplishing that feat.

The game featured two young promising lefthanders in Boston’s Jon Lester(3-3,3.67, May No hitter) and Baltimore’s Garrett Olson.(4-1,4.03) Both pitched well but left with high pitch counts before the 6th inning. Lester went 5 with 7 hits and 3 runs allowed with 4 strike outs and 3 walks. Olson one upped him with 3 hits over 5 and 2 runs allowed(back to back solo homers by 2b Dustin Pedroia and dh David Ortiz in the 3rd) .

With the score tied at 2 in the 5th, Orioles 2b Brian Roberts homered to put Baltimore up by one. Red Sox C and captain hit a rbi single in the 6th to tie it. The Sox took control vs three Orioles relievers in the 7th,LH Jamie Walker(4.41 era) allowed an Ortiz’ sacrifice fly to put Boston ahead for good. Rh(and ex-Red Sox) Chad Bradford(3.12) served up Ramirez’ history making shot to right center. The Red Sox added an insurance run via a OF Coco Crisp fielders choice in the 8th. Star closer Jonathan Papelbon pitched the ninth for his 16th save and a 6-3 victory.

Star of the Game-

Manny Ramirez- Best pure hitter I have ever seen…..

Orioles Notes-

Alex Cintron started at SS and went 0 for 3…. Jay Payton played LF in place of regular Luke Scott with a LH starting…Manager Dave Trembley was undecided on a starter for Tuesday, named veteran RH Steve Trachsel post game, who has not pitched since May 9th and is having a nightmare season(2-5,8.82)

Next Game-

Orioles LH Brian Burres(4-4,4.15) vs Red Sox RH Bartolo Colon(2-0,2.25)

Game 53 Recap-

In an entertaining game that featured 6 errors & 9 stolen bases, two big miscues in the 13th helped the Boston Red Sox beat the Baltimore Orioles 5-2 at Camden Yards Friday night. The game was low scoring with 2 of the better starting pitchers in the American League pitching with the Red Sox giving the ball to  RH Josh Beckett(5-4,4.30) and RH Daniel Cabrera(5-1,3.60) taking the mound for the Os. Of the 7 runs in this game, 4 were unearned and another was on a sacrifice fly.

The Red Sox scored 2 runs in the 1st off of Cabera. DH David Ortiz plated the 1st run with a rbi single. 2007 World Series MVP 3b Mike Lowell brought home Big Papi with a sac fly. In the 2nd, the Orioles scored on throwing error on a stolen base, as 1b Kevin Millar came home. In the 4th, DH Aubrey Huff homered to tie the game.

Both SPs pitched great and looked like the aces they are. Beckett went 6 innings allowing 4 hits and 2 runs. He walked 3 and struck out 10. The ever improving Cabrera posted 7 innings with 6 hits against and runs allowed. He walked and struck out 2. The game turned into a battle of the bullpens and with two of the better ones in this game, the score stayed tied until the errors and runs in the 13th.

In the 13th, LF Manny Ramirez reached on an error and Lowell knocked him in for the decisive run.  A huge error by rookie SS Freddie Bynum gave the Sox two insurance runs and the  game was in the hands of Red Sox closer, Jonathan Papelbon. The All Star did not disappoint, retiring the side and striking out the last 2 batters for his 15th save.

Star of the Game- 

Orioles bullpen- 6 innings, no earned runs. 7 Ks and 2 walks, great, great job. Hats off to RH long man Matt Albers(2.08 era), who pitched 3 innings.

Orioles Notes- 

Orioles had 8 hits over 13 innings….. 2nd sellout this season…. Team allowed 6 steals with one caught stealing(CF Coco Crisp attempting to steal home), rookie OF Jacoby Ellsbury leading the way with 3

Next Game- 

Saturday- 7:05 Camden Yards, Baltimore

Orioles LH Garrett Olson(4-1, 4.09) vs Red Sox LH Jon Lester(3-3,3.55)

Game 52 Recap-

Veteran LH SP Andy Pettitte(5-5,4.11) showed his veteran guile and pitched into the 7th, to help the New York Yankees take the final game of a 3 game series vs Baltimore at Camden Yards, 4-2. The Orioles had won the last two and veteran 1b Jason Giambi did his part to prevent the sweep. He drove in the games 1st run(rbi single) in the 2nd and homered in the 7th.

After Giambi’s rbi hit, Orioles 3b Melvin Mora homered with a runner to make it 2-1 good guys. Giambi homered in the 4th to tie and Yankees captain, SS Derek Jeter put them up 3-2 with a sacrifice fly in the 5th. The game settled down and Baltimore RH SP Jeremy Guthrie pitched a gem. Over 7 innings, he allowed only 6 hits with 3 runs and 4 strikeouts.  This kid has pitched wel(3.64 era) but has not received run support.

Pettitte was Pettitte. He was big in big moments and made a huge play in the 5th. After 2b Brian Roberts led off with a double, the crafty lefty picked him off for the 1st out. That was a huge play because a walk and RF Nick Markakis double followed. Pettitte pitched 6 2/3 innings with 8 hits and 2 runs allowed, he walked one and struck out 3.  Transitioning rookie pitcher Joba Chamberlain followed with 1 1/3 innings hi-lighted by 3 Ks.  Future hall of famer Mariano Rivera closed out the 9th f0r his 13th save.

Star of the Game-

Pettitte- Classy lefthander is a leader and shows up in big spots. Yankees were foolish to ever let him go.

Orioles Notes- 

Hope Pettitte retires… SOON! He is 24-6 lifetime vs the Os including 15-4 at Camden Yards, the most wins by any visiting  pitcher at Baltimore….. Orioles won 2 of 3 but the loss denied them their first sweep of the Yankees since 2005

Next Game- 

Off Thursday-

3 Game weekend series vs Boston at Camden Yards starting Friday at 7:05

Game 51 Recap-

In a game with 9 combined homers , a huge rain storm and lots of excitement, a little used utility man provided the game winning hit. New Orioles acquisition infielder Alex Cintron hit a drive to the right field warning track to score Aubrey Huff to cap a wild game and give them a much needed 10-9 win over the New York Yankees at Camden Yards Tuesday night. Orioles Manager Dave Trembley did not mince words post game,”That’s the best game that I’ve ever been part of. I’ll replay this one for a long time.”

The wildness started in the Yankees 2nd with the homers flying out of the park all night. LH Brian Burres(4-4,4.15 era) took it first when DH Jason Giambi(solo) and CF Johnny Damon(3 run shot) went deep. In the home 2nd, 1b Kevin Millar(2 run shot) and C Ramon Hernandez(solo) responded to pull the Orioles within one at 4-3, an error allowed them to tie it a 4. Burres battled but hit the wall in the 4th, as SS Derek Jeter singled in a run to put the Yankees ahead, 5-3. Back to back homers by RF Bobby Abreu(2 run) and SS Alex Rodriquez chased the young Baltimore starter.

Yankees starter, RH Ian Kennedy, left with an oblique injury(DLed post game) in the 4th. After a clean inning,it was rh rp Ross Ohlendorf’s turn to give up some homers! In a 4 run 5th, 3b Melvin Mora(2 run), LF Luke Scott and Millar all hit it out of the park for a tie at 8. Both teams pens settled down and the game was tied in the 9th when a serious downpour interrupted the game for about an hour and after Yankees Manager Joe Girardi requested a stoppage.

The rain stopped and the Yankees took the lead in the 11th off of RH Matt Albers(3-1,2.25) when LF Hideki Matsui plated Abreu. LH Latroy Hawkins allowed the 2 of the first 3 hitters to reach and the 2nd hit by Aubrey Huff tied the game at 11. Girardi had Hawkins walk the next 2 batters to set up the double play. Cintron then hit the game winner to left and give the Orioles a huge, huge victory.

Star of the Game-

Millar- 2 homers, 3 hits and rbi plus a walk and 2 runs

Orioles Notes-

Twice the Orioles hit consecutive homers after going 50 games without doing it… Trembley announced that the team will go with 4 starters with some off days- RHs Daniel Cabrera, Jeremy Guthrie, LHs Garrett Olson and Brian Burres. When the team needs a 5th starter, “that’s the possibility Steve Trachsel will pitch”, said the Manager pre-game

Next Game-

Wednesday-7:05, Camden Yards

Orioles RH Jeremy Guthrie(2-5,3.62 era) vs Yankees LH Andy Pettitte(4-5,4.27)

Game 50 Recap-

RF Nick Markakis threw out a key runner at the plate and drove in 2 runs, while LH SP Garrett Olson was outstanding over 7 innings, leading the Baltimore Orioles to a 6-1 win over the New York Yankees Monday afternoon at Camden Yards. Olson(4-1,4.01 era) recovered from a beating in the Bronx last week(6 runs over 2 2/3 + innings) saying ” You can always dwell on it, but that’s not going to do you any good. Every fifth day if you get the ball, you’ve got to go out there and get the job done.” The promisng youngster allowed 3 hits(none after the 3rd) with 4 walks and a career high 7 strikeouts over 7 innings.

Markakis, Baltimore’s best all around player, threw out LF Johnny Damon at the plate in the 3rd after a two out single with a perfect throw. Great job by C Ramon Hernandez with the tag and coverage at the plate. Markakis homered in the 6th for the 1st run off of Yankees RH SP Darrell Rasner(3-1,1.80 era) to give the Orioles the early lead.

The Orioles scored 5 runs in the 7th versus the Yankees bullpen to put the game out of reach. 3b Melvin Mora and Markakis singled in runs with singles to make it 3-0. For the 2nd day in a row, DH Aubrey Huff homered, this time with 2 runners on to close the big inning with 5 runs and a 6-0 score. This was more than enough for for Olson and 2 relievers as the Orioles allowed a harmless run in the 9th for the 6-1 victory.

Star of the Game-

Olson- Great, great start— learned from his nightmare in the Bronx and showed stones

Orioles Notes-

Baltimore is 15-7 at home, 10-18 on the road… Markakis leads American League OFs with 8 assists

Next Game-

Tuesday-7:05-Camden Yards

Orioles LH Brian Burress(4-4,3.16) vs Yankees RH Ian Kennedy(0-3,7.27)

I will be off for the Holiday, game results at mlb.com & espn.com. Do something for all the troops- Young and Old!

Back Tuesday!!!

Game 49 Recap-

Supremely talented Rays rookie 3b Evan Longoria doubled home the winning run and continued to kill Orioles pitching, as the Rays swept a 3 game series, winning Sunday, 5-4. After hitting 2 homers Friday, Longoria plated 1b Carlos Pena, who walked with 1 out for the decisive run. The uprising occured after Baltimore closer George Sherrill entered the game.(1-1)

In a game that featured two of the better young starters in the AL in Os RH Daniel Cabrera and Rays LH James Shields, they both pitched well but Shields have his “A” game, getting his team to the 8th inning. Cabrera, who has been wild throughout his career, had turned it around this season,(73 IP/30 walks compared to 204 1/3 IP and 108 last season) however, he walked 6 in 5 2/3 innings Sunday. Daniel also allowed 9 hits and 4 runs with 1 strike out. Shields one upped the Baltimore starter, allowing 8 hits and 4 runs(3 earned) with 1 walk and 3 Ks.

After Orioles C Ramon Hernandez drove in a run with an rbi single in the 2nd, the Rays responded with 4 runs in the 3rd. Pena hit a 2 run homer while DH Eric Hinske and C Dioner Navarro added rbi hits. Rookie CF Adam Jones got the 2nd Orioles run home with a double in the 5th. Baltimore continued to show life in the 6th when they tied the game at 4 after 3b Melvin Mora singled home a run, DH Aubrey Huff took Shields deep to CF for a 4-4 deadlock.

Star of the Game-

Pena- Continues his hot stretch and has killed the Orioles. In 11 games vs Baltimore, he has 5 homers and 18 RBI. In 38 games vs other teams, he h as 5 and 11.

Orioles Notes-

LF Luke Scott , battling soreness in his knee, shoulder and achilles tendon, was given the day off. He pinch hit and grounded out in the 7th….2b Brian Roberts, RF Nick Markakis and C Ramon Hernandez all started after getting a day off Saturday for mental rest… Pena is 6 for 16 with 3 homers and 7 RBi vs Cabrera

Next Game- 

Start of a 3 Game series vs NY Yankees at Camden Yards

1:35 Monday

Orioles LH Garrett Olson(3-1) vs Yankees RH Darrell Rasner(3-0)

Game 49 Recap-

The new and improved Tampa Rays continued their cinderella story of a season and brought the bats as they plated runs in the 1st two innings to beat the Baltimore Orioles,11-4 Saturday at Tropicana Field in Florida. Stud Rookie 3b Evan Longoria led the way with 2 homers and 6 rbi, 1b Carlos Pena added 3 hits & rbi with a walk and 2 runs scored.

Baltimore has been in a offensive funk and Manager Dave Trombley held a 10 minute team meeting to clear the air and gave 3 regulars the night off. The Os leader was trying to remain positive saying,” Things will turn out in our favor.” The team has lost some close games recently and the batters are in a a major slump. He sat 2b Brian Roberts, RF Nick Markakis and C Ramon Hernandez citing “mental days.” Markakis, in particular, is having a strong season and is a an on base machine.

Meetings or no meetings, Veteran Orioles RH SP Steve Trachsel continues to struggle, after being skipped in the rotation, he was pummeled by the exciting Rays lineup. He lasted 1 2/3 innings, allowing 7 hits and 9 runs with 2 walks and a single strikeout. He is now 2-5 with a 8.83 era, the proud veteran wondered post game if he was tiping pitches. Sad to see for this class, team guy.

With the offensive explosion, Rays RH SP Edwin Jackson just needed to make pitches and get outs. He did, over 5 innings,he allowed 4 hits and 3 runs with 5 free passes and 2 Ks. The promising right hander is 3-43 with a 3.47 era in 2008.

Offensively for the Os, LF Luke Scott homered in the 3rd to break a team wide homerless streak at 31. Backup C Guillermo Quiroz has 2 hits and an rbi 3 while Markakis’ stand-in OF Jay Payton added a double, run,rbi and walk. 1b Kevin Millar drew 3 walks and scored.

Player of the Game-

Longoria… Former Minor league player of the year was the story, sickening potential

Orioles Notes-

Team had 5 hits, 2 for extra bases… Baltimore pen continues to be strong, as RHs Matt Albers, Lance Cormier and Dennis Sarfate pithced 6 1/3 innings and allowed 1 earned run with 5 strike outs

Next Game-

Sunday,1:40 PM- Tropicana Field

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(5-1,3.48 era) vs Rays LH James Shields(4-3,3.38)

Game 47 Recap-

Tampa Rays RH Matt Garza stymied the slumping Baltimore Orioles and 2 runs was enough offense as the won 2-0 Friday Night at Tropicana Field in Tampa. Garza pitched into the 8th, going 7 1/3 innings with only 4 hits against,while walking 4 and striking out 4 as well. The youngster is now 3-1 with a 4.06 era. Single runs in the 5th and 8th provided the scores.

Orioles RH Jeremy Guthrie continues to pitch much better than his record, this tough loss put him at 2-5 with a 3.62 era. He lasted 6 2/3 innings, allowed 4 hits and 1 run with 3 walks and 5 Ks. His lone run allowed was plated by Rays superstar LF Carl Crawford’s rbi single in the 5th. Set up men LH Jamie Walker and RH Chad Bradford combined with closer LH George Sherrill to allow the 2nd run in the 8th after a single, error and 1b Carlos Pena’s sacrifice fly.

Baltimore would not go quietly and the umpires did not help the cause in the 8th. After a walk by Os on base machine, LF Nick Markakis, DH Aubrey Huff appeared to have a double down the line. The call was reversed and Huff then hit into a crushing inning ending double play. Orioles Manager Dave Trombley initially azrgued the call and escaped without being tossed. After the inning chance over, he was ejected by Home plate umpire Ed Rapuano. After this excitement, Baltimore went quietly and lost their 3rd in a row. Meanwhile, the Rays have won 10 of 11 at home.

Player of the Game-

Garza- Buried a struggling Orioles offense

Orioles Notes-

Regular 3b Melvin Mora returned to the lineup after missing part of Wednesday’s and all of Thursday’s game with a finger injury…..Baltimore has been shutout in 2 of the last 3 losses, have been outscored 12-1 in this 3 game slide….. 28 1/3 innings without a homer…. LH SP Adam Loewen threw a bullpen session for the 1st time since he went on the DL April 25. Former closer RH Chris Ray also threw a mound session and could return this season after elbow surgery late in the 2007 season

Next Game

Saturday-6:10 -Tropicana Field,Tampa

Orioles RH Steve Trachsel(2-4,6.75) vs Rays RH Edwin Jackson(2-3,3.29)

Game 46 Recap

The Baltimore Orioles saw 1st year New York Yankees manager Joe Girardi get ejected and unfortunately, it injected some life into his club, as they scored to win in the 9th, 2-1. The Ex Yankees catcher put on a a show arguing a check swing call, tossing his hat and kicking dirt at the homeplate umpire, ala managerial great Billy Martin.

The ninth inning of a 1-1 game started with a single by DH Hideki Matsui off of Orioles super rookie, RH Jim Johnson(1.08). Jason Giambi appeared to check his swing but was called out on a foul tip strike which caused the Girardi erruption. The ejection spurned on the Yankees and seemed to distract Johnson, as he walked RF Bobby Abreu. Struggling 2b Robinson Cano then hit a single between 3b and SS for the decisive run.

This was a well played game and both starting pitchers pitched well. Struggling RH rookie Ian Kennedy(7.27 era), had control issues, but pitched well over 6 innings. He allowed 4 hits, 1 run(Rbi triple by SS Freddie Bynum in the 3rd) while walking and striking out 4. Promising Orioles LH Brian Burress(3.16 era) was outstanding. He pitched 7 2/3 innings. allowed 6 hits and walked no one. While striking out 5, he allowed only a sacrifice fly to plate a run in the 4th.

Player of the Game-

Burress– Pitched great and with Arod back, NY Yankees lineup should take off

Orioles Notes-

Regular 3b Melvin Mora was not in the lineup after a minor arm injury forced him out of the game Wednesday. He hopes to play in Friday’s game vs Tampa….Aubrey Huff played 3b in his place…. RF Nick Markakis made 2 great catches in the outfield

Next Game-

At Tampa-7:10 pm

RH Jeremy Guthrie(2-4,3.86) vs Rays RH Matt Garza(2-1,4.86)

Game 45 Recap-

The New York Yankees bats have come to life with the return of MVP 3b Alex Rodriquez and they made the Orioles pay Wednesday night, losing 8-0. Arod had 3 hits and 2 rbi, including his 2nd homer in consecutive game. He also had another homer taken away by a bad call in the 6th.

Pitching wise, young Yankees RH SP Darrell Rasner was the story. Over 7 innings, he allowed only 5 hits and struck out 6 with 1 walk. RH RP Joba Chamberlain was stretched out over the last 2 innings but struck out 3. New York management disclosed post game that the power reliever would convert to the starting rotation sometime this season and this was step 1 in that process.

Young Orioles LH SP Garrett Olson(3-1, 5.19) had been a pleasant surprise but was kicked around the park tonight.  After giving up 3 runs in the 2nd(2b Robinson Cano double,C Chad Moeller single and SS Derek Jeter ground out), ARod homered to left center. LF Johnny Damon followed with a 2 run single and Olson hit the showers. His first appearance in Yankee stadium was not pretty, over 2 2/3 innings, he allowed 8 hits, 6 runs and walked 2. He struck out 1 batter.

Baltimore did next to nothing on offense all night and only rookie SS Freddie Bynum had an extra base hit.(double vs Rasner) NY scored 2 more runs in the 6th and it should have been more but the umpires  blew an obvious Arod homer call and gave him a double instead.

Star of the Game- 

Rasner- Shut the Orioles down cold

Orioles Notes- 

3b Melvin Mora left the game in the 3rd with an apparent right hand injury….Bullpen pitched 5 1/3 innings and allowed only 1 earned run

Next Game- 

Thursday, 7:05 Yankee Stadium

Orioles LH Brian Burress(4-4,3.47) vs Yankees RH Ian Kennedy(0-3,8.48)

Game 44-

The Baltimore Orioles jumped all over ex ace Mike Mussina for a huge opening inning and never looked back, as they destroyed the slumping NY Yankees Tuesday night 12-2 at Yankee Stadium. While their former stud starter struggled, RH Daniel Cabera continued his strong comeback season. In winning his 5th game(5-1 on the year,3.48 era), the young veteran right hander pitched 7 innings, he allowed 5 hits and 2 runs with 1 strike out.

For the highest payroll in baseball, you would think they Yankees could field a team that could catch the ball and field positions. They can’t and Mussina paid for it. Aided by 2 errors, the Orioles scored 7 times in the 1st. DH Aubrey Huff and SS Freddy Bynum had rbi singles, a bases loaded walk and 2b Brian Roberts tripled for 4 runs. However, the big hit that plated 3 runs was a bases clearing double by rookie CF Adam Jones. Mussina was done after 2/3 innings plus having allowed 5 hits and 7 runs.(1 earned) He walked 2 and struck out 1.

The Orioles scored 2 more runs in the 2nd after an error scored one, Jones singled in another run. 1b Kevin Millar homered for another score in the 4th and Baltimore’s 10th run. In the 6th, Cabrera made his only mistake, as AL MVP Alex Rodriquez returned and hit a bomb for the Yankees 2 runs.

Cabrera did not walk anyone but was effectively wild, hitting Yankees SS and captain Derek Jeter in the forearm with a pitch. Xrays came back negative but he left the game. Yankees LH RP Latroy Hawkins retaliated, throwing 2 pitches at LF Luke Scott(2nd at his head) and causing the benches to clear without further incident. Outside of the Jeter situation, Cabrera was outstanding. His control is such a positive, the man who posted over 100 walks the last 2 years has 1 in the last 23 innings.

Star of the Game-

Jones-4 hits and 4 rbi

Orioles Notes-

Team has won 8 of 10, after losing 5 game losing streak…..Veteran RHP Steve Trachsel will start a weekend game vs Tampa… Scott got his revenge with an upper deck homer in the 8th

Next Game-

Orioles LH Garrett Olson(3-0,3.47) vs Yankees RH Darrell Rasner(2-0,3.00)

Game 43 Recap-

The Washington Nationals won an old fashioned pitching battle to salvage the final game of a 3 game interleague series at Camden Yards, beating the Balimore Orioles, 2-1 Sunday afternoon. Rookie LH starter John Lannan was the story, getting his 4th win(4-4,3.40 era) while working 7 1/3 innings, he allowed only 4 hits, a single run with 1 walk and 5 strike outs.

Orioles RH starter Jeremy Guthrie(2-4,3.86 era) also pitched well over 7 solid innings. His stat line- 5 hits, 1 run and 3 walks- clearly shows he deserved a better fate. Nationals SS Christian Guzman homered(#4) with 2 outs for the first run of the game in the 3rd . 3b Ryan Zimmerman doubled in the other run in the eighth inning off of side armer Orioles reliever Chad Bradford.

Lannan tired in the 8th, giving up a single and double. He was relieved by Luis Ayala, who escaped the jam with only 1 run scoring on a sacrifice fly. Nationals closer, the huge LH Jon Rauch, allowed a single with 2 outs then got OF Jay Payton to pop out and end the game, a Nationals 2-1 win.

Star of the Game-

Lannan- Kept the Orioles off balance all day, threw 105 pitches with 71 strikes

Orioles Notes-

Game had a 25 minute delay in the 8th inning with a weather system passing thru…Veteran ML Alex Cintron started at SS, his contract was purchased May 11th from Triple A. Regular SS Freddy Bynum pinch ran for OF-DH Luke Scott in the 8th. He took over defensively for Cintron as well…..Guthrie has allowed a homer in 7 of his 10 starts

Next Game-

Team is off Monday, starts Three game series vs the NY Yankees Tuesday at Camden Yards

Game 42 Recap-

The Baltimore Orioles jumped out to a an early 4-1 lead and continued their run of solid play in the early season, beating the Washington Nationals 6-5 Saturday night at Camden Yards. Rookie LH Brian Burres got his 4th win and was strong again, going 6 2/3 innings, allowing 4 hits and 2 runs mixed in with 2 walks and 3 Ks. RF Nick Markakis and LF Jay Payton each hit 2 run homers to lead the offense.

Nationals starter, veteran LH Odalis Perez, pitched decent but the Orioles got to him early wit Markakis singling in a run in the 1st. After the Nats plated a run in the 2nd via a ground out, 3b Melvin Mora singled in another run and Markakis hit a 2 run shot for a 4-1 Baltimore lead. Payton homered in the 5th with a runner on to end Perez’ stat line at 5 innings pitched, 10 hits and 6 runs allowed with 2 walks and strike outs.

With Baltimore leading 6-2 in the 8th, the Nationals scored 3 runs off of 3 different Oriole relievers. 1b Aaron Boone drove in 2 with a single and another run scored on a wild pitch. Rookie RH Jim Johnson got the final out in the 8th with a k and set up LH closer George Sherrill in the 9th. Sherrill retired the side in order for his 17th save and the 4th win a row for the Orioles.

Star of the Game-

Markakis- 3 rbi, got the team started and had strong at bats all day

Orioles Notes-

Baltimore is 11-5 in 1 run games….. Burres has allowed 3 or fewer runs in 6 of 8 starts

Next Game-

Sunday-1:35- Camden Yards, Baltimore

Orioles RH Jeremy Guthrie(2-3) vs Nationals LH John Lannan(3-4)

Game 41 Recap-

Baltimore Orioles 5- Washington Nationals 3

The Baltimore Orioles again rallied from an early inning deficit and helped young LH Garrett Olson (3-0,3.47) win his 3rd game in 4 starts, as the Orioles beat the Washington Nationals 5-3 at Camden Yards Friday Night. The injury call up went 5 innings, allowing 9 hits and 3 runs while striking out 3. The Orioles bullpen continued its recent strong peformance with 4 shutout innings and 6 Ks among 3 pitchers.

After a 2 run single by Nationals star 3b Ryan Zimmerman, Washington led 2-0. Baltimore scored 2 runs on a strange play in the 3rd, they initial run plated on a fielders choice. 2b Felipe Lopez made a throwing error attempting to turn a double play and the 2nd run scored on the poor throw, tying the score at 2. The game was tied again in the 4th as each team scored a single run, the Nationals scoring on a sacrifice fly and Baltimore’s via a LF Luke Scott solo homer(#3 on the year).

The Baltimore offense took the lead for good versus RF SP Shawn Hill in the 5th. 2b Brian Roberts tripled to start the inning and he quickly scored on a double by 3b Melvin Mora. After 2 outs, 1b Kevin Millar singled home the 5th run to make it 5-3. Hill pitched decent and was very close to escaping 2 jams with minimal damage. His final line was 5 innings pitched, 8 hits allowed,5 runs(4 earned) with 2 walks and 3 strike outs.

Olson battled as well and was gone after 5 innings and 70 pitches, he allowed 9 hits, 3 earned runs and struck out 3. RH RP Matt Albers(2.15 era) pitched the 6th and 7th, striking out 3. Rookie phenom RH RP Jim Johnson(1.14 era) struck out all 3 batters he faced in the 8th and LH closer George Sherrill did not allow a base runner in the 9th for his 16th save.

Star of the Game-

Johnson- 3 batters, 3 strikeouts– a major weapon for Manager Dave Trembley

Orioles Notes-

Mora and C Ramon Hernandez returned to the lineup after missing some games with minor bumps and bruises…. Team has won 6 of 7

Next Game-

7:05 vs Washington Nationals – Camden Yards

Orioles LH Brian Burress(3-4) vs Nationals LH Odalis Perez(1-3)

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)