Earl Weaver Rules

Day off for the Holiday- follow the Os on www.mlb, www.orioles.com or at espn.com.

Have a Happy and safe holiday and do not drink and drive… I want u back here to read my reports!

Game 136 Recap-

LH James Shields(12-8,) allowed one run over 7 innings and SS Jason Bartlett homered for the 1st time in over a year, helping the Tampa Rays beat the Baltimore Orioles,10-4 Sunday at Tropicana Field to complete a 3 game sweep. The win puts the Rays AL East division lead at 5 1/2 games and they finished the month at 21-8 for August, a team record for wins in a month. DH Rocco Baldelli was 3 for 3 and Bartlett 4 for 4.

LH Brian Burres(7-9,6.08) had another rough outing after getting recalled from Triple A for this start. In 5 innings, he allowed 9 hits and 7 runs while walking 4 and striking out the same number. LH Alberto Castillo(1-0,3.10) took over and had an interesting 6th inning, he hit the first two batters he faced then walked the next two!

Shields(12-8,3.66) , one of the more underrated pitchers in the game, allowed 6 hits and 1 run over 7. He walked 2 and struck out 1, using 101 pitches. He was focused on the big picture post game, the Pennant race! “This series was really good to go into September,” Shields said. “Our hitters are really on right now and our pitchers are pitching as good as ever. We’re really putting it together right now.”

This was not a good performance for the Os who have hit a rough patch here. The team scored 3 runs in the 8th(2 on an rbi double from LF Luke Scott) but has now dropped to 63-73 and a season-worst 10 games under .500, having lost 10 of 12. “We got flat-out beat,” Baltimore first baseman Kevin Millar said. Not a good omen going into Fenway Park to face the World Champion Boston Red Sox!

Star of the Game-

Orioles Manager Dave Trembley for telling it like it is post game: “In an understatement, not very pretty,” Trembley said. “Not real pleased, you’ve got to sit there and watch 180 pitches everyday. I’d rather have the fastball thrown over the plate and have people hit it instead of giving runs away like that. It will be addressed.” He promised a meeting with both the staff and Pitching coach Rick Kranitz before the Red Sox series.

Orioles Notes-

DL-ed CF Adam Jones will return from his foot injury and  play Monday… LHP Garrett Olson(8-6,6.38) will be recalled from Triple A Norfolk and pitch Monday’s game…3b Aubrey Huff and 2b Brian Roberts had 2 hits apiece

How bad was this series?

Rays 3 game series totals: 34 runs, 40 hits and 25 walks, 6 hit by pitches and twice drew four walks in a row… RH RPs Randor Bierd(2/3rds of an inning,3.64) & Jim Johnson(1 inning,2.23) did not allow runs in their appearances… Guillermo Quiroz started at C , giving Ramon Hernandez a day off

Next Game-

Monday,Start a 3 game series at Boston vs the Red Sox

7:05

Orioles LHP Garrett Olson(8-6,6.38)   vs. Red Sox RH Paul Byrd(9-11,4.55)

Game 135 Recap-

Rays DH Rocco Baldelli(2 for 3) doubled in the winning run in the 9th, helping the Tampa Rays defeat the Baltimore Orioles 10-9 at Tropicana Field in Florida. The hit spoiled a 9th inning game tying homer from RF Nick Markakis(4 for 5) and handed the Os their 9th loss in 11 contests. 3b Aubrey Huff had a homer(#30) and 3 rbi(98) while CF Jay Payton(HR) and C Ramon Hernandez had 2 hits apiece. Rays 3b Akinori Iwamura continued his big series with 3 hits, 1b Carlos Pena added 3 rbi and 3 runs.

Baldelli, a strong talent(2003 AL Rookie of the Year) who has battled a disorder that slows muscle recovery & causes fatigue, was done in many baseball insiders eyes with several legs injuries. “I didn’t think in spring training that I’d be part of anything like that,” said Baldelli, who was mobbed by teammates after his first career walk-off hit. “I wanted to, but I didn’t think it was a possibility. Sometimes you get things that you don’t expect. So it was nice.”

Orioles LH Chris Waters(2-1,5.45) had a rough outing, over 4 1/3 innings, he allowed 8 hits and 5 runs with 4 walks and 2 Ks. Waters, who grew up around an hour from Tampa in Lakeland, Florida, walked 4 straight to lead off the game.”Little bit of nervousness in my first game in my hometown,” Waters said. “Thirty people here to see me and I just let it overwhelm me.” Rays CF BJ Upton drove in 2 runs with a double in the 2nd and C Dioner Navarro rbi double in the 4th chased the hometown boy.

Rays RH Andy Sonnanstine(13-6,4.61) missed out on his 14th win and did not have a strong game. In 3 1/3 innings plus, he allowed 7 hits and 6 runs(5 earned) with 1 walk and 2 Ks while Huff and Payton touched him for homers. The game became a bullpen battle and Tampa’s was slightly better as ex Orioles Chad Bradford’s(2.19) inning and 2/3rds was huge. Rookie Rocky Cherry(0-2,4.66) took the loss and paid for a 1 out walk with the Baldelli double to left.

Star of the Game-
Baldelli- Great human interest story– imagine if this young man stays healthy how good this team could be… better yet, picture this club with a clean Josh Hamilton!

Orioles Notes-

Pitchers have allowed 18 walks and 24 runs in the last 2 games,”I think we’re making it a whole lot more difficult than we should,” Orioles manager Dave Trembley said…Markakis(41) and Huff(42) are both over 40 doubles for the season… Lou Montanez started in LF and was 1 for 4

Next Game-

Sunday, series conclusion vs Rays in Tampa

Orioles LH Brian Burres(7-8,5.79) vs Rays LH James Shields(11-8,3.73)

Game 134 Recap-

The Tampa Bay Rays jumped out to a 10-0 lead and never looked back, punishing the Baltimore Orioles 14-3 Friday night at Tropicana Field in Florida. SS Ben Zobrist had a grand slam and DH Cliff Floyd added 5 rbi, while the team exploded for 7 runs in the 4th. LH Scott Kazmir(10-6,3.13) got the win, going 5 1/3(102 pitches) while alliowing 3 hits with 6 Ks and 3 walks. Orioles DH Aubrey Huff had 2 hits, a run and rbi for Baltimore.

Orioles RH Jeremy Guthrie(10-11,3.57) continued his recent string of struggles with another poor outing. Over 3+(85 pitches?!) innings, he was touched for 7 hits and 7 runs with 6 walks(unusual for him) while striking out 2. This was Guthrie’s 3rd consecutive loss and he offered no excuses post game,”I didn’t feel great physically,” Guthrie said. “At the same time it doesn’t mean I can’t pitch well.” RH Fernando Cabrera(2-1,5.00) took one for the team in the long man role Friday, he allowed 5 runs(4 earned) over his 2 innings to save a depleted and overworked relief corps.

The Rays, on the other hand, have been the biggest Cinderella story of the year. At 82-51, they stand 4 1/2 games ahead of the reigning World Champion Boston Red Sox. Tampa clinched its first winning season with the victory, the club has never won more than 70 games previously and stands at an amazing 50-19 at home. A Huge turnaround and the man behinf it was very proud postgame, “Going into spring training I knew we were better,” Rays manager Joe Maddon said. “We just didn’t know how much better. Eighty-two wins is a big moment, and I want this to be the standard of what we do, to get that number on an annual basis.

The Rays banged out 15 hits and added 9 walks, Floyd had 2 doubles, while RF Gabe Gross(3 hits) and C Shawn Riggans had home runs. Lead off man Akinori Iwamura had 2 hits(triple) and 3 runs while CF BJ Upton had 3 hits and 3 runs. 1b Carlos Pena added 3 walks and 2 rbi.

Star of the Game-
Zobrist- Grand slam was the big blow in decisive 4th inning

Orioles Notes-

Team MVP 3b Melvin Mora left the game in the 3rd inning after suffering a grade I hamsting strain, he is expected to miss the rest of the Tampa series… C Ramon Hernandez was ejected in the 4th for challenging a check swing that was called a ball on a batter…. RH Daniel Cabrera began serving his 6 game suspension for throwing at Yankees 3b Alex Rodriquez

Next Game-

Saturday, Game 2 of series at Tampa, Tropicana Field

3:55

Orioles LH Chris Waters(2-1,4.71) vs Tampa RH Andy Sonnanstine(13-6,4.42)

Game 133 Recap-

2b Brian Roberts had 3 rbi on a night he was supposed to have off, while RH Radhames Liz pitched a solid 5 1/3 , helping the Baltimore Orioles beat the 1st place Chicago White Sox,11-3 Wednesday night at Camden Yards in Baltimore. The win ended a 5 game winless stretch for the Os, while Roberts was out of the original lineup but was added when utility man Alex Cintron was a late scratch due to food poisoning. He went 2 for 5 with a double and 3 rbi.”It’s not really that big a deal. They tell you have an off day but you’ve got to always prepare,” he said. “Alex got sick, and there I was back in the lineup. I’ve played enough games in my career so that I can jump back in and play.”

Baltimore had 16 hits and added 3 home runs, 3b Melvin Mora and 1b Kevin Millar had solo shots while DH Aubrey Huff(3 rbi) had a runner on. SS Juan Castro added 2 hits and 2 rbi 0ut of the 9 hole. However, Liz performance was key. He allowed only 3 hits with 5 walks and 3 Ks. White Sox slugger 1b Paul Konerko got him for a homer but he was just what the doctor ordered for a pitching starved Orioles club.”Liz did enough to stay out of the big inning,” Trembley said. “He pitched around some walks. I thought this time his changeup was real key for him because they were sitting on the fastball.”

Star of the Game-
Os team- Undermanned with the pitching injuries and no Adam Jones in CF, team continues to play hard and be pros.

Orioles Notes-
RF Nick Markakis had his major league leading 15 OF assist…. C Ramon Hernandez was the only starter not to record a hit.. Team is 13-1 when scoring 10 runs, team totaled 10 runs or more only 8 times in 2007

Gotta love… White Sox Manager Ozzie Guillen… Post game quote: “I think Cintron was the player of the game,” White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen said, “because he’s supposed to be in the lineup. Roberts played, and he killed us. I think I’m going to blame Cintron for that one.”

Next Game-

Team is off Thursday

Start 3 game series vs the Rays in Tampa Friday

Game 132 Recap-

Chicago RH Gavin Floyd(14-6,3.70) was great for 8 while SS Orlando Cabrera was 4 for 5 with 2 rbis and CF Nick Swisher homered, leading the White Sox over the Baltimore Orioles 8-3 Tuesday at Camden Yards. LF Carlos Quention added 3 hits, while RF Jermaine Dye, DH Ken Griffey Jr and Paul Konerko all had 2. Orioles RF Nick Markakis had an rbi double and DH Luke Scott had 2 rbis.

LH Brian Burress(7-8,5.79) had a tough  night, over 5 innings he gave up 10 hits and 6 runs(5 earned) with 1 walk and a K. The talented youngster was recalled from Triple A Norfolk to start the game, but was hit hard with  6 extra base hits and many more linedrives.”I didn’t really give my team a chance,” the left-hander said.

Floyd was the difference in this game, giving up 4 hits, allowing 2 runs while striking 4 and walking 1. He pitched within 10 miles of his high school field, saying,”I loved spending time with my family,” he said. “It’s been a good time.”He, was, however, not impressed by his win total, “Fourteen is nice,” he said. “I’m just trying to finish this season strong and hopefully get in the playoffs. I’m 0-0 in my mind after every start. I try to go out there and not really pay attention to that.” His manager Ozzie Guillen  is very happy to him,”This kid is an animal. You see him throw in the bullpen session and he is a strong kid and he has the same pace and concentration in the game. This kid has a chance to have a good career.”

Star of the Game-

Floyd- Had 6 in 4 seasons before winning 14 this year. Lets have Scott break him down,”He changed speeds and threw three pitches for strikes — his fastball, his slider and curveball,” Scott said. “His curveball is a great strikeout pitch. He moved the ball around, pitched to contact. He did a good job.”

Orioles Notes-

C Ramon Hernandez was 0 for 3 ending his career best hit streak…Markakis and Scott had 2 hits…. Juan Castro and Alex Cintron platooned at SS, each going 0 for 2

Next Game-

Series conclusion vs White Sox at Camden Yards

Orioles RH Radhames Liz(4-3,7.32) vs  White Sox John Danks(10-6,3.16)

Game 130 plus make up game recap-

In a game that started April 28th in CHICAGO and was suspended due to horrible weather conditions, rookie Lou Montanez singled home the tiebreaking run in the 14th for a 4-3 Baltimore win. The Os escaped a bases loaded jam in the 14th inning and RF Nick Markakis singled to lead off the inning, a single, sacrifice and intentional walk had the bases full and Montanez hit Chicago reliever D.J. Carrasco’s pitch to center for the decisive run.

The nightcap featured a well pitched game by 2 youngsters that was decided by future hall of famer Jim Thome’s solo shot in the 6th. With the score tied at 3, Thome hit Chris Waters pitch center to give the Sox a much needed 4-3 win over Baltimore Monday at Camden Yards. Thome’s bomb not only won the game but it also moved him into 15th place on the all time home run list. Power armed LH Clayton Richard(2-2,6.23) got the win for Chicago.

The Os made some mistakes in this game and a good team takes advantage, The White Sox scored in the first on an error by SS Juan Castro and in the 5th vs Waters balk. The young lefty battled vs a very good White Sox batting order, thru 7 innings, he allowed 5 hits and 4 runs(3 earned) with 2 Ks and 2 walks. CF Ken Griffey Jr’s rbi double made it 2-0 in the 4th but the Orioles rallied in the 4th for 3 runs. C Ramon Hernandez, 1b Kevin Millar and CF Jay Payton all had rbi singles in the inning to put Baltimore up 3-2. However, Water’s balk tied it and Thome’s winner followed. Chicago’s flame throwing closer RH Bobby Jenks(3-0,1.86) pitched the ninth for his 26 save.

Star of the Game-

Thome- Another game winner for his great career, tremendous lockerroom guy and clutch player

Orioles Notes-

Huff and Payton’s 2 hits led the club…. CF Adam Jones will not return til September 1st at the earliest from his broken foot… RF Nick Markakis did not start and pinch hit late in game, while Castro got 2 ABs and was replaced by Alex Cintron

Next Game-

Tuesday- 7:05 vs White Sox at Camden Yards

Oroles LH Brian Burres(7-7,5.64) vs Sox RH Gavin Floyd(13-6,3.78)

Game 129 Recap-

The Baltimore Orioles rallied from a 5 run deficit only to lose on a late inning home run by 2b Robinson Cano  in the 7th, as the Yankees swept the weekend series, winning 8-7 Sunday at Camden Yards. CF Johnny Damon added a 3 run shot and RF Bobby Abreu had 3 hits for the winners. 2b Brian Roberts, DH Aubrey Huff and 3b Melvin Mora all homered for the Orioles, Roberts, Huff and CF Jay Payton all had 3 hits apiece.

After starter RH Darrell Rasner allowed 2 homers in the 1st(Roberts to lead off the game & Huff), the Yankees answered with 4 vs veteran Os RH Daniel Cabrera(8-8,5.24). Damon’s 3 run bomb hilighted the outburst in the 2nd. 1b Jason Giambi’ sacrifice fly and a 2 run double from LF Xavier Nady made it 7-2 Yankees. Cabrera did not last the inning, over 3 2/3 innings, he gave up 9 hits and 7 runs with 3 walks.

Rasner could not hold the lead and the Yankees pen allowed the score to be tied in the 5th. RF Nick Markakis (rbi single), Huff(rbi double) and 1b Kevin Millar(sacrifice fly) had run scoring at bats in the  4th. He was not pleased post game with his effort, “It was like I never pitched before. I’m disgusted with my outing,” Rasner said.  Roberts 2 run shot in the 5th vs RH Edwin Ramirez tied the game at 7-7, setting up Cano’s game winner vs lefty specialist Jamie Walker(1-2,5.74).

Star of the Game-

Cano- 4 for 5 with the game winner, 2 doubles, 2 rbi and 2 runs

Orioles Notes-

Cabrera did not record a K for the first time in his 144 career starts…. C Guilermo Quiroz game Ramon Hernandez the day off….PH-LF Luke Scott walked in 2 plate appearances…. Os left 13 on base, Yankees 11

Next Game-

Monday, start a 3 game series vs Chicago White Sox at Camden Yards

7:05 start

Orioles LH Chris Water(2-0,4.98) vs Chicago LH Clayton Richard(1-2,6.75)

Game 128 Recap-

Highly criticized free agent signing Carl Pavano was strong 5 innings, while 1b Jason Giambi drove in 3 runs, helping the New York Yankees defeat the Baltimore Orioles 5-3 Saturday night at Camden Yards. Orioles RH  Jeremy Guthrie(10-10,3.28) was once again a tough luck loser, as he pitched into the 7th vs one of the better lineups  in all of baseball. Thru 6 2/3, he gave up 7 hits and 5 runs with 7 Ks and walk mixed in.

Pavano,(1-0,5.40) making his first start since April 2007, allowed 7 hits and 3 runs with 5 stikeouts and 1 walk plus 2 hit batters thru 91 pitches. This is only his 20th appearance since signing a 4 year contract in 2005, as he has had injuries, calmunating in elbow ligament replacement surgery. “It’s amazing. This is what I get paid to do, this is what I live for,” Pavano said. “This is all I really want, to go out there every fifth day and do my job.”

The Yankees jumped out with 2 runs in the 1st when reigning AL MVP 3b Alex Rodriquez doubled home a run and Giambi drove him in with an infield single.  Baltimore rallied for 3 in the 2nd vs Pavano, as SS Juan Castro(sacrifice fly) and 2b Brian Roberts(ground out) plated runs with outs, Nick Markakis rbi single capped the inning to make it 3-2 Orioles. Giambi answered with a 2 run shot in the top of the 3rd to retake the lead.Fresh of the DL DH Hideki Matsui homered in the 7th to end scoring at 5-3.

Star of the Game-

Pavano- Could be a key to a Yankees September surge

Orioles Notes-

Team picked up Manager Dave Trembley’s 2009 option, very well deserved and needed. Has had injuries and kids in the pitching staff all season, in a tough division he has maintained a solid product and effort…C Ramon Hernandez has a career high 13 game hit streak… CF Jay Payton had 3 hits to pace the club… DL-ed CF Adam Jones continues to make tremendous progress from his broken foot and will more than likely play in a simulated game sometime this week… Trembley was also ejected for backing 3b Melvin Mora’s tipped 3rd strike in the 3rd inning

Next Game-

Sunday, series conclusion vs the Yankees at Camden Yards

1:35 PM

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(8-8,4.59) vs the Yankees RH Darrell Rasner (5-9,4.93)

Game 127 Recap-

No column for Friday’s game- Yankees 9-4 win- due to family emergency. I hope to be back in full Saturday night or early Sunday. To follow the Os, go to www.orioles.com, espn.com or mlb.com

To all site fans, I apologize!

J

Orioles recalled RHP Radhames Liz(4-3,7.47 with 33/32 K/BB ratio) from Triple A Norfolk and he will take the mound vs the New York Yankees tonight

Game 126 Recap-

The Baltimore Orioles banged out 11 runs with C Ramon Hernandez and 3b Melvin Mora hitting 3 run homers, leading them to an 11-6 victory over the Boston Red Sox Wednesday at Camden Yards. Boston LH Clay Bucholz(2-9,6.75) in 2 1/3 innings, he allowed 5 runs on 3 hits with 3 walks. This is the same lefty who no hit the Os in his 2nd ML appearance last year. Since May 2, he is 0-7 in 9 starts. He was demoted to Double A post game.”People have tough games. I’ve had a tough season,” said Buchholz, who spent two months in Triple-A from mid-May to July 11. “Down there is where you develop. Up here it’s a pennant race. … If you ask if the decision was right, I’d say it was.”

Boston jumped out to a 4-0 lead after 2 innings, with 3b Kevin Youkilis and SS Jed Lowrie getting 1st inning rbi, LF Jacoby Ellsbury bunt single and error on the play added a run then DH David Ortiz singled in the 4th run. Orioles rookie LH Chris Waters(2-0,4.98) competed for 5 innings, he allowed 8 hits and 5 runs(4 earned) with 1 K and 3 walks.

The Os comeback started in the 2nd with LF Montanez and 2b Brian Roberts driving in runs. Hernandez’ homer capped the 4 run 3rd. Mora then hit his own bomb in the 4th. New Red Sox LF Jason Bay homered in the 5th to cut the lead to 10-5 Baltimore. The teams exchanged single runs in the 5th and 8th for the final score of 11-6.

Star of the Game-

Mora- should rename this award after him, incredible 2nd half continues! 1st half- 326 ABs-.233,11 home runs, 48 rbi- 2nd half-121 ABs-.421,9 bombs,43 rbi!

Orioles Notes-

Aubrey Huff started at 1b and gave Kevin Millar a day off, regular LF Luke Scott DH-ed and rookie Montanez got the start in left…CF Jay Payton and Roberts had 2 hits… LHP Garrett Olson(8-6,6.38) was optioned to Triple A Norfolk post game, the club will recall a pitcher to start vs the Yankees Friday

Next Game-

Team off Thursday, start 3 game series vs New York Yankees at Camden Yards

As 20+ yr resident of the New England region, I want to extend well wishes to one the greatest ball players of all time, OF Carl Yastrzemski. Yaz had heart surgery Tuesday and is said to be recovering well. The last triple crown winner(1967) played for Boston from 61-83 and is a beloved figure in the baseball community.

Game 125 Recap-

The Boston Red Sox used home runs from C Jason Varitek and 3b Kevin Youkilis to support a wild but effective RH Daisuke Matsuzaka(15-2,2.77) and defeat the Baltimore Orioles 7-2 Tuesday night at Camden Yards in Baltimore. Dice K went 5 innings(105 pitches) with 6 hits and 2 runs with 6 Ks and 5 walks. While he did not have a 1-2-3 inning, he standed 9 runners including 5 in scoring position.”Whether I allow hits or I allow walks, I always think that the important thing is not to allow the runners to score,” Matsuzaka said through an interpreter. “That’s the way I thought last year and it’s still the same this year.”

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(8-8,4.98) continued to struggle vs the Boston lineup, over 16 career starts he is 2-11 with a 7.13 era. In 4 1/3 innings plus, he gave up 9 hits and 6 runs with 3 walks and 2 Ks plus the 2 homers. “They’re just a team,” Cabrera said. “I was just trying to go up there and throw strikes. They take a lot of pitches. Maybe that’s why they’re so good.” Varitek(.166 in his last 64 games) showed signs of life with 2 rbi (homer in 2nd, rbi double in 5th) while Youkilis(2 run shot in the 5th & rbi single in 8th) continued his strong season with 3 rbi. Orioles C Ramon Hernandez & LF Luke Scott had rbi hits in the 3rd.

The Os suffered a major loss BEFORE the game when All Star LH Closer George Sherrill was placed on the DL with left shoulder inflamation. The injury does not appear to be serious and might just be from over use, as the lefty has already surpassed his career high in innings pitched. “The MRI news actually was good. The doctor told me that the MRI, side-by-side, looked identical to the one they took in spring training,” club president Andy MacPhail said. “There is a little inflammation, which they injected and prescribed rest. So we don’t have any long-term concerns at the present time. It just looks like something that’s going to be facilitated by rest.”

Star of the Game-

Youkilis- Should garner serious MVP consideration, great defense at 2 positions and hits in 4-5 different spots in the lineup

Orioles Notes-

Sellout crowd of 48,515 put the stadium over 50 million in 17 years, no ball park has reached that number faster…. 2b Brian Roberts had 3 hits….LH Alberto Castillo pitched an inning and a third and lowered his era to 2.55, while RH Randor Bierd(3.37) chipped in a shutout 9th

Next Game-

Wednesday, 7:05

Orioles LH Chris Waters(1-0,4.32) vs Red Sox LH Clay Bucholz(2-8,6.35)

I want to dedicate this column to one of my buds who, back in the day was always kind to me, even though I was a pimply faced snot nosed punk! She was always nice to me and made me feel important, I would not be where I am today without her help. So this goes out to one of my biggest supporters, as well as the best listener and smile around, Suzy Q!

Game 124 Recap-

New Red Sox LF Jason Bay had 2 home runs and 4 RBI, while LH Jon Lester(12-4) was strong over 7, helping the Boston Red Sox defeat the Baltimore Orioles,6-3 at Camden Yards in Maryland. Red Sox C Jason Varitek and Orioles Dh Aubrey Huff also homered. Lester was great over 7, allowing 5 hits and 2 runs with 4 Ks and 5 walks.

RH Jeremy Guthrie(10-9,3.15) continued his snake bitten season, allowing only the two home runs to score over his 7 innings, while allowing 5 hits & 5 walks with 4 Ks. Rookie RH Rocky Cherry allowed 2 runs( 1 earned) on Bay’s 2nd homer in the 8th. Jim Johnson(2-4,19 holds,2.37) had a rare tough night, allowing a rbi double from DH David Ortiz & Bay scored Big Papi on a fielders choice ground out.

Offensively, the Os did not have a good night vs Lester, yet pulled within one in the 8th when they scored 2 inherited runs vs Red Sox stud closer Jonathan Papelbon. However, Papelbon was back to normal in the 9th, retiring the side in order to earn his #33 save. Lester, however, was huge(9-1 since May 25th and he talked about his season postgame.”I don’t think my mind-set has changed any since April,” Lester said. “More consistent, pound the zone. If you can show guys you’re ahead in the zone, they’re going to swing at pitches early in the count that aren’t necessarily good pitches to hit. I was able to do that tonight.”

Star of the Game-

Bay & Lester- LF Adjusting nicely to the league change and the pressure cooker of Boston. hitting .348 with 3 homers and 16 rbi in 16 games. Lester? Lets hear his new OF talk about him,”I don’t think my mind-set has changed any since April,” Lester said. “More consistent, pound the zone. If you can show guys you’re ahead in the zone, they’re going to swing at pitches early in the count that aren’t necessarily good pitches to hit. I was able to do that tonight.”

Orioles Notes-

Team is around 3000 fans short of 50 million at Camden Yards…5 of Guthrie’s 9 losses have been quality starts… 3b Melvin Mora’s hit steak stopped at 6 but he has a 15 gam streak of collecting at least 1 hit, an rbi or run…Huff had 2 hits to pace the club

Next Game-

Tuesday, 7:05

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(8-7,4.78) vs Red Sox RH Daisuke Matsuzaka(14-2,2.74)

Game 123 Recap-

In a game that featured 37 hits and 24 runs, the Baltimore Orioles used a career day from 3b Melvin Mora to help them defeat the Detroit Tigers, 16-8 Sunday at Comerica Park in Michigan. Mora was 5 for 6 with 2 home runs, 2 doubles and a career high 6 rbi.”I just feel real confident when I get to the plate right now,” said Mora, who is hitting .500 in his last 15 games. “To be able to go out there and crush the ball against a team like Detroit was really something.”

LF Luke Scott also homered twice, Baltimore set season highs in numerous categories- runs,hits(22) and extra base hits.(12)  ”That was an unbelievable game,” said Baltimore manager Dave Trembley. “I’m going to get a tape of this one and run it over and over during the winter.” Neither starting pitcher did anything in this game except give up runs. Detroit’s RH Zach Miner(6-4,3.94,4 outs) and Baltimore LH Garrett Olson(8-6,6.38,5) were both gone in the 2nd inning. The first 2 innings took 74 minutes!!!

The game became a battle of the bullpens, and the Os came out on top here. The four Baltimore relievers allowed 3 runs in 7 1/3 innings, while the Tigers relief corps allowed 11 in 7 2/3 rds.”Our entire pitching staff had a bad day, and when that happens, you are going to get embarrassed,” Tigers manager Jim Leyland said. “Our offense came ready to win this game, but when you give up four runs in three of the first five innings, it takes all the wind out of your sails.” RH Fernando Cabrera(3.13) was the hidden star of the game, getting his 2nd win with 3 scoreless innings.

Every Baltimore starter had at least 2 hits outside of DH Kevin Millar(who still had 2 rbi and 2 walks). Scott has 4 rbis, 1b Aubrey Huff had a big day with 2 hits, 3 walks, 2 rbi and 3 walks as well as his 26th homer. As amazing as the 16 runs appears to be, the team left 12 runners on base! 16 hits and 8 walks adds up to a lot of ducks on the pond.

Star of the Game-

Mora- Continues his amazing 2nd half run, career high rbi total in the game

Orioles Notes-

Alex Cintron started at SS and was 2 for 6 while Jay Payton was in CF, going 2 for 5…Mora made his 12th error, BENCH HIM!!!… 2b Brian Roberts had 3 runs as did RF Nick Markakis

Next Game-

Monday,Start a 3 game series vs the Boston Red Sox at Camden Yards

7:05

Orioles RH Jeremy Guthrie(10-8,3.18) vs Red Sox LH Jon Lester(11-4,3.25)

Game 122 Recap-

Tigers RH Justin Verlander(9-13,4.60) pitched his 2nd consecutive strong start vs his local home team, leading the Detroit Tigers to a 5-3 win over the Baltimore Orioles Saturday night at Comerica Park in  Michigan.  They 3rd year pitcher went 6 and allowed 4 hits and 2 earned runs while striking out 6 and walking 3. His last win was also vs the Os, July 20th he just missed a complete game, allowing 1 run over 8 2/3 innings.  “He threw strikes, he pitched great against us back-to-back times — he was better — plain and simple,” Orioles manager Dave Trembley said.

Unfortunately for Baltimore, RH Dennis Sarfate(4-3,5.35) could not match his mound counterpart.  Over 4 2/3 innings, he allowed 6 hits and 4 runs while striking out 5 and walking 2.  He has yet to go 5 innings in a start since joining the rotation in 4 attempts while allowing 18 earned runs over 15 2/3 innings. The Os scored 2 in the 3rd on a throwing error and a third run in the 7th via a ground out double play.

Detroit was led offensively by 1b Miguel Cabrera’s 3 hits. DH Gary Sheffield added 2 rbi, while CF Curtis Granderson and 2b Placido Polanco had 2 hits apiece. Cabrera and 3b Carlos Guillen homered in the 3rd.

Star of the Game-

Verlander- Tremendous talent who has yet to put it all together over a full season

Orioles Notes-

Rookie OF Lou Montanez  missed starting the game with a minor hand injury suffered in the game Friday night, he played defense in the 8th…  3b Melvin Mora, LF Luke Scott and SS Juan Castro had 2 hits…Relievers RH Rocky Cherry(1 1/3 innings) and LH Jamie Walker(1 inning) had strong appearances

Star of the Game-

Sunday, 1:05, Comerica Park

Orioles LH Garrett Olson(8-6,6.06)  vs.Tigers RH Zach Miner(6-4,3.41)

Game 121 Recap-

Red hot 3b Melvin Mora was a double short of a cycle and had 4 rbi, leading a 14 hit attack and the Orioles to a 11-2 win Friday night over the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park in Michigan. Baltimore got 4 runs in the 1st 3 innings and broke open a close game with 6 in the 9th. The sloppy Tigers made 3 errors(5 unearned runs) and left 10 men on base while Orioles DH Aubrey Huff had a big night with 3 hits and 2 rbi.

Baltimore plated runs in the 1st three innings, 2 in the 2nd. Huff’s single , 2b Brian Roberts single plus error on the play for another run  followed by Mora’s 3rd inning homer caped the rbi hits.  Orioles starter rookie LH Charlie Waters(1-0,4.32) pitched well but made one mistake, a 2 run homer to 2b Placido Polanco in the 5th. Over 98 pitches, the promising lefty allowed 4 2/3 innings, 8 hits and two runs with 1 walk and a K.  RH RP Lance Cormier(4.70) took over and pitched a strong 2 1/3 innings for the win(2-3). Rookie RH Jim Johnson(19th hold, 2.11) was his dominant self in the 8th

Mora’s 6th inning sacrifice fly made it 5-2 and the Orioles broke open the game with the big 6 run frame in the 9th. 2 errors contributed to plays allowing 3 runs to score, Mora then drove in 2 more with a single and Huff capped his night with another clutch rbi.  Closer George Sherrill pitched the 9th to get some work and seal a nice series opening win.

Star of the Game-

Mora- Since the all star break, the 3b is hitting .404 with 7 home runs and 37 rbi in 26 games. See what cortisone shots do for sore shoulders!!!!

Orioles Notes-

Team signed 2008 1st rounder(4th overall), LHP Brian  Matusz, Friday, beating the midnight deadline….SS Juan Castro went 2 for 4 with 3 runs and an rbi

Next Game-

Saturday, 7:05, Comerica Park

Orioles RH Dennis Sarfate(4-2,5.16) vs Tigers RH Justin Verlander(8-13,4.77)

Game 120 Recap-

In a game that featured 30 hits, Orioles rookie LF Lou Montanez might have had the biggest, as the Baltimore Orioles staged another comeback in their  season of never  giving up, beating the Cleveland Indians, 11-6 Thursday at Progressive Field in Ohio. The rookie call up had 2 seperate rbi hits over the explosive 8th inning, starting it with double and capping the 8 run explosion with a run scoring single, making it 11-3.

For a game that had 17 runs, both clubs starting pitchers showed up well. Orioles veteran RH Daniel Cabrera(8-7,4.78) went 5 2/3 innings, allowing 8 hits and 3 runs with 2 Ks and 2 walks. He was touched for rbi doubles in the 1st( 2 run) and 6th.  Indians LH Zach Jackson made his 1st ML start and was also solid. Over 5, he allowed 8 hits and 3 runs( 2 in the 1st), adding a walk and K. The youngster was touched for rbi singles by DH Aubrey Huff and C Ramon Hernandez. 1b Kevin Millar’s rbi double in the 5th capped Jackson’s line.

The Orioles blew open the game in the 8th and Manager Dave Trembley made a huge decision, allowing his rookie to swing away with runners on 1st and 2nd no outs. “Why bunt the eighth guy in the order?” Trembley said. “To get the No. 9 hitter up there? Montanez has been swinging at strikes, getting big hits.” Montanez doubled in a run and the big inning followed, SS Juan Castro(single), 3b Melvin Mora(double), Hernandez(bases loaded walk) and Millar(single) added rbi hits while the rookie LF put the cherry on the sundae with  his 2nd rbi hit of the frame to make it 11-3 Birds.

The Orioles bullpen was tremendous in this contest, again, mixing and matching, Trembley got some good performances out of  rookies Rocky Cherry(big K) and  power arm RH Jim Johnson, while new comer rh Fernando Cabrera(1-1,3.60) pitched a scoreless 7th to earn his 1st win since April 25,2007.

Star of the Game-

Orioles lineup- 8 of 9 starters had a hit, 8 had a run and 6 posted an rbi

Orioles Notes-

Waiver wire update, DH Aubrey Huff, OF Jay Payton, 1b Kevin Millar and LH RP Jamie Walker  all cleared waivers and can be traded by August 31st. Closer George Sherrill was claimed and will not be traded…..Mora, Millar and Montanez all had 3 hits…Daniel Cabrera hit his 15th batter, setting a team record… 8th inning was the biggest scoring total of the year

Next Game-

Friday, 3 game series at Detroit starts, Comerica Park

Orioles rookie LH Chris Waters(1-0,4.50) vs Tigers LH Nate Robertson(7-8,5.84)

Game 119 Recap-

RHP Jeremy Guthrie(10-8, 3.18) pitched great vs the his former team and the bats errupted for 4 runs in the 9th,  helping the Baltimore Orioles defeat the Cleveland Indians, 6-1 Wednesday at Progressive Field in Ohio.   DH Aubrey Huff had a homer and drove in 2 , while RF Nick Markakis added 2 rbi to lead the winners.

Indians starter, RH Anthony Reyes(1-1,2.19) pitched well for Cleveland but did not get much support. Over his 6 innings, he allowed 6 hits and 2 runs with 2 walks. Baltimore plated two runs in the 2nd, when Huff homered and CF Jay Payton grounded out for the 2nd run.

Guthrie allowed only a Grady Sizemore rbi double in the 5th over his 7 innings, giving up 4 hits and that run while striking out 4 and walking 1. LH Jaime Walker(7 holds, 5.00)  followed for 2/3rds of an inning and rookie Rocky Cherry(HUGE strikeout) got the last out of the 8th to keep the game at 2-1. All star closer George Sherrill(31 saves,4.56) pitched a scoreless 9th.

The Orioles blew the game open in the 9th vs RHs Brandan Donnelly(5 hits and 4 runs) and  Juan Rincon. Markakis(2 run single) and Huff(double) had rbi hits and 3b Melvin Mora scored on a wild pitc”I had a sense of what this meant to him,” Orioles manager Dave Trembley said. “He has worked hard to establish an identity as an Oriole, but he did tell me, ‘It felt good.’h to close the scoring.

Star of the Game-

Guthrie- You think he likes pitching against Cleveland? “I had a sense of what this meant to him,” Orioles manager Dave Trembley said. “He has worked hard to establish an identity as an Oriole, but he did tell me, ‘It felt good.’ “Each time out, he is making a statement, establishing himself as a legitimate top-of-the-order starter in either league. I think he’s still got some upside.”

Orioles Notes-

Team has until midnight to sign 1st rd pick, LHP Brian Matusz….Indians did not strike a batter out for the 1st time since April 28,2004… Since June 24, Guthrie is 7-1 with a 2.79 era over 10 games…Markakis and  Mora both had 3 hits

Next Game-

Thursday, Series finale vs Indians,  Progressive Field, Ohio

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(8-7,4.78) vs Indians LH Zach Johnson(0-0,4.91 in 3 2/3 innings, 1st ML start)

Game 118 Recap-

In a game that featured 6 first inning runs, 2 late hits by the Cleveland Indians helped them defeat the Baltimore Orioles Tuesday in Ohio. SS  Asdrubal Cabrera’s  rbi single in the 8th was the decisive run, capping his big night with 3 hits and two runs. LF Ben Francisco and RF Franklin Gutierrez both had 2 hits for the Tribe.

Baltimore jumped out with two runs in the first vs Cleveland starter Jeremy Sowers(1-6,5.70) with red hot 3b Melvin Mora(single) and 1b Aubrey Huff(sacrifice fly)  getting rbi. Os LH Garrett Olson(8-6,6.06) gave the lead back with 4(3 earned) against in the home frame; 4 consecutive rbi singles plated runs with an error mixed in. The teams exchanged runs in the 4th(Tribe) and 5th(Orioles) with single runs apiece to make it 5-3 Indians. The game was now in the hands of the bullpens.

The Os tied in with two in the 7th vs 2 pitchers, as 2b Brian Roberts singled home a run and RF Nick Markakis followed with his own rbi hit to tie the game at 7. The game stayed that way until the Cabrera hit vs Orioles flame thrower RH Jim Johnson(2-4,2.18). Francisco followed with another rbi single for insurance and a 7-5 Indians lead. Rookie RH Jensen Lewis(0-3,3.99)  earned his 2nd save and had 2 Ks in doing so.

Star of the Game-

Cabrera- Responding after his early season demotion to the minors,  “He’s been playing good baseball,” Indians manager Eric Wedge said. “He’s taking a better approach at the plate, is in a little better shape and helping the team.”

Orioles Notes-

Os had a season high 4 errors….SS Juan Castro returned to the starting lineup after missing time since injuring his groin Saturday… Olson rebounded after a rough first inning to give the team 6, 9 hits allowed, 5 runs(4 earned) with 6 Ks and 2 walks… Markakis and Mora had 2 hits apiece

Next Game-

Wednesday, Game 3 of 4 game series vs Indians at Progressive Field in Cleveland

7:05 Start

Orioles LH Jeremy Guthrie(9-8,3.28) vs  Indians RH Anthony Reyes(3-1,3.86)

Game 117 Recap-

In  a wild game that featured ineffective pitching, numerous lead changes and 22 hits, the Cleveland Indians defeated the Baltimore Orioles, 13-8 Monday at Progressive Field in Ohio. Cleveland jumped out to a 5-0 lead, lost it to trail 8-7 but rallied and made the Orioles pay for mistakes.   “We didn’t pitch well enough from the beginning, plain and simple,” Orioles manager Dave Trembley said. “We threw too many pitches. We had too many walks and too many hit batters.” As frustrating as this game was for Baltimore, Cleveland enjoyed it just as much. “It was a good team win,” said Indians first baseman Ryan Garko, who had two hits and two RBIs. “We got up early, came back late. We all just battled and got it done.”

Orioles RH Dennis Sarfate(4-2,5.16) had an up and down start but showed flashes as well. In a day when the team needed a quality start and more importantly innings, he could get an out in the 5th. After giving up four runs(3 seperate rbi hits and a sac fly) in the first, he was touched for a long homer in the 2nd by Asdrubal Cabrera. Sarfate gathered himself  and got thru the next two innings clean. However, the youngster could not maintain the momentum and was gone after two walks to start the 5th. LH Alberto Castillo relieved and both base runners scored.  Sarfate’s final tally- 4 innings, 5 hits and 7 runs (6 earned) with 4 Ks and 5 walks.

As the Os have shown all year, they battle and do not quit. They showed some fight vs Indians RH Fausto Carmona(5-4,4.91) touching him for 2 runs in the 3rd and another in the 4th via a solo home run from DH Aubrey Huff. Baltimore chased Carmona in the 7th with the big strike being a 3 run triple from RF Nick Markakis to take the lead at 8-7. 2b Brian Roberts and 3b Melvin Mora added rbi hits in the frame.

Baltimore could not sustain the success or lead, as RH Rocky Cherry and LH Jaime Walker gave up 6 runs over an inning and a third. The 3 run seventh featured a Cabrera rbi double and 2 more runs of outs. The 8th saw Cleveland hit 2 homers, a solo shot by Ben Francisco and 2 run bomb from Andy Gonzalez.

Star of the Game-

Indians bats— whole lineup contributed and this looked like the team that was one win from the World Series in 2007

Something to think about….

In this 21st century sports world where players do not take responsibility and point fingers at everyone, Sarfate is not in that boat. Check out his post game interview on MASN in the media lounge, in summary- HE SUCKED. This type of kid I pull for and I see talent, he just needs to work and from this attitude, he will. He gained a HUGE fan today in this writer.

Orioles Notes-

SS Juan Castro was held out of the game with a left groin strain, it is not considered a serious problem however….. Huff’s homer extended his 19 game hit streak…Markakis had 3 hits to lead the club

Next Game-

Game 2 of 4 game series vs Cleveland at Progressive Field

Orioles LH Garrett Olson(8-6,6.06) vs Indians LH Jeremy Sowers(1-6,5.70)

Game 116 Recap-

The Texas Rangers posted 20 hits as a team, led by 2b Ian Kinsler’s 5 hits, beating the Baltimore Orioles 15-7 Sunday at Camden Yards. The Rangers boast one of the better offenses in MLB but had been held to 1 run in the previous three games. Kinsler had a homer, 3 runs and 3 rbi while RF Josh Hamilton continued his huge season with a homer, 3 rbi and 2 runs. CF Marlon Byrd(4 for 6) added a homer with 3 runs and 4 rbi.”They were ready to break it out,” Orioles manager Dave Trembley said. “They score an awful lot of runs, and if you make a mistake, they don’t foul it off. They hit it.

As indicated by the score, this game did not feature much pitching. Texas starter, LH Matt Harrison(4-2,7.07) battled for 5 innings and got the win. He allowed 10 hits with 6 runs and 2 walks. 3 relievers allowed 1 run in the final 4 innings.   8 of 9 Texas starters had a hit and run, with only Milton Bradley(who had 1 AB& left with an illness) not accomplishing that feat.

LH Chris Waters(1-0,4.50) could not carry over the success from his 1st ML start and was hit hard. Over 4 innings, he allowed 7 hits and 6 runs with 5 Ks and 3 walks. Said Waters: “Right out of the gate I wasn’t really consistent with my fastball location, and in the big leagues you’ll notice, anywhere, that if you miss your spots bad things happen.” RH Randor Bierd(0-2,3.43) followed and allowed 5 runs without recording an out. 3 more Orioles relievers allowed 4 runs over 5 innings.

Baltimore’s bats tried to keep this close but Texas just was on today. Leadoff man-2b Brian Roberts was 4 for 4 with 2 doubles,  while red hot 3b Melvin Mora continues to hammer the ball with 3 more hits(homer) and 4 rbi. DH Aubrey Huff also homered.

Star of the Game-

Texas lineup- scary good and this is without regular OF David Murphy and an ill  Bradley

Orioles Notes-

Huff’s hit streak is at 18….Roberts had 4 hits to lead the Os….Rookie LF Luis Montanez had 3 hits and an rbi

Next Game-

Monday, start a 4 game series at Cleveland

Orioles RH Dennis Sarfate(4-2,4.58) vs Indians RH Fausto Carmona(5-4,4.46)

Game 115 Recap-

Veteran RH Daniel Cabrera(8-7,4.78) allowed 3 of the 1st 4 hitters to reach base but recovered to go 6 strong, helping the Baltimore Orioles punish the Texas Rangers, 9-0 Saturday night at Camden Yards. After 2 singles and an intentional walk , Cabrera answered the call with a huge pop up and strike out to escape the 1st inning jam.”I think it changed the whole game to get out of that jam with no runs,” Cabrera said. 3b Melvin Mora homered and had 4 rbi, while 2b Brian Roberts scored 3 runs. RF Nick Markakis added a 3 run shot.

To magnify Cabrera’s 1st inning battle, Orioles 1b Kevin Millar had a huge 2 out single with the bases loaded to plate the games first run. Markakis hit his homer in the 2nd and Mora singled in 2 more runs in the 4th. Baltimore continues to punish Rangers ace RH Vincente  Padilla(12-6,4.85 ) who is 0-2 with 18.90 era vs the Os and is 12-4,4.13 vs the rest of MLB. His not so pretty stat line for the game-  4 innings, 8 hits, 6 runs with 4 Ks and 3 walks. The Rangers pen surrendered the final 3 runs of the game with Brian Roberts(rbi single in the 5th) & Mora( 2 run homer) getting big hits.

Cabrera was the story and continued to show mental toughness and fight. He is a good fit with this feisty,battling club, led by Trembley and veterans like Millar. He shut out one of the best lineups in MLB over 6, allowing 4 hits and 3 walks with 3 Ks. 3 relievers finished up for the Os- going an inning each-RH Rocky Cherry(7th,season debut), LH Alberto Castillo(8th) and RH Fernando Cabera to help secure the win and shutout.

Star of the Game-

Cabrera- First inning escape set the tone for the rest of the game, “The difference in the game tonight, the way I saw it, was Cabrera got out of the first inning and then we scored,” Orioles manager Dave Trembley said. “If he didn’t get out of the first inning you don’t know. It would be a coin toss there.”

Orioles Notes-

DH Aubrey Huff doubled in the 2nd to extend his career high hit streak to 17….Cabrera was 1-6 with a 6.33 era vs the Rangers in 8 starts, including 0 for 3… SS Juan Castro had 3 hits(led team) and 2 runs

Next Game-

Sunday,1:35 series finale vs Texas

Orioles RH Dennis Sarfate(4-2,4.58) vs Rangers LH Matt Harrison(3-2,6.46)

Game 114 Recap-

LH SP Jeremy Guthrie(9-8,3.26) continued his strong season and veteran 1b Kevin Millar homered twice to lead the Baltimore Orioles to a decisive 9-1 victory over the Texas Rangers Friday night at Camden Yards. Baltimore had 15 hits and every starter had a hit with 6 getting 2, while the team has won 7 of 11 games.

Baltimore got things going with 3 in the 2nd, with 2b Brian Roberts driving in two of the runs with a double. Millar homered with a runner on in the 3th to make it 5-0. Millar added his 2nd bomb, a solo shot in the 5th and C Ramon Hernandez had 2 rbi singles in the 6th and 8th innings.

Guthrie was the story, batters aside. He allowed 5 hits over 7 innings and 1 run(solo shot in the 5th) with 4 Ks and 1 walk. He does not believe being above .500 is a huge deal, “I don’t feel any different with my record today than I did a month ago,” he said. “I really feel that, for the most part, when I’ve been on the mound our team has been in the game. That’s the most important part.”

Star of the Game-

Guthrie- Let his manager state the case”I think he’s in a position now where his due is coming,” Orioles Manager Dave Trembley said. “The guy’s getting recognized as a legitimate,top-of-the-rotation guy for any team in the big leagues. I’m glad a lot of other people are starting to recognize what he’s all about. We’re very, very fortunate to have him.”

Orioles Notes-

Veteran RH side armer Chad Bradford(3-3,2.45) was claimed off of waivers Wednesday by the Tampa Rays, the Os will receive a player to be named later….3b Melvin Mora, DH Aubrey Huff, Millar, LF Luke Scott, CF Jay Payton and  Hernandez all had 2 hits….Juan Castro started at SS and drove in 2 runs with a sacrifice fly and single… Huff has a 16 game hit streak

Next Game-

Saturday, 7:05 pm, Game 2 vs Texas at Camden Yards

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(7-7,4.97) vs Rangers RH Vincente Padilla(12-5,4.59)

Game 113 Recap-

The Los Angeles Angels showed why they have baseball’s best record, scoring 9 runs in the first 4 innings, punishing the Baltimore Orioles 9-4 Wednesday in California. DH Vladmir Guerrero homered and had 4 rbi, while LF Garret Anderson added 3 hits and 2 rbi. New 1b Mark Teixeira had 2 hits, 3 runs and a walk.

A day after rookie LH Chris Waters stymied them, the Angels took out their frustration on young LH Garrett Olson(8-6,6.06). Over his 2 2/3 innings, he allowed 7 hits and 6 runs with 3 Ks and 2 walks. Guerrero had a 2 run homer and Anderson doubled home another run in the 1st, C Jeff Mathis homered in the 2nd. Teixeira scored on a wild pitch and Anderson singled in another run to end Olson’s day. RH Lance Cormier(1-3,4.97) gave up 3 more runs in the 4th with Guerrero’s 2 run single and a sacrifice fly by CF Torii Hunter.

Angels RH Ervin Santana(13-5,3.45) benefited from the run support and pitched to the score. He went 7 strong, allowing 8 hits and 4 runs with 7 ks. He allowed 2 homers(1st ML hit by Luis Montanez in 3rd & RF Nick Markakis 3 run shot in the 5th) for all the Orioles runs. RH Jose Arredondo(4-0,1.03) pitched 2 base runner less innings to end the game.

Star of the Game-

Guerrero- Hall of Famer who is a joy to watch, cannot be pitched to when he is on

Orioles Notes-

3b Aubrey Huff singled in the 4th to extend his hit streak to 15….Rookie LF Luis Montanez led the club with 2 hits… Alex Cintron started at SS,batted 2nd with a single and run

Next Game-

Day off Thursday- 3 game series at Camden Yards vs the Texas Rangers starts Friday

Orioles LH Jeremy Guthrie(8-8,3.35) vs Rangers RH Luis Mendoza(3-4,7.00)

Game 112 Recap-

27 Yr old LH SP Chris Waters(1-0,0.00) allowed 1 hit over 8 innings in his ML debut, leading the Baltimore Orioles to a 3-0 win over the Los Angeles Angels Tuesday night in California. “It’s a great feeling,” Waters said. “I just went out there and tried to focus on the mitt as much as possible and keep my mind down in the zone. I came in here knowing that they were probably going to take pitches on me because I’m a rookie coming into a big stadium. So I really tried to pound the zone.” Over 8 innings, he gave up a single, while striking and walking out 3. All Closer LH George Sherrill(31 saves,4.18) allowed a hit in the 9th but still earned the save.

Baltimore got all the offense they would need in the 1st, as RF Nick Markakis doubled home 2b Brian Roberts. 3b Melvin Mora singled him home and it was 2-0 Orioles. Veteran RH Jon Garland(10-7,4.28) pitched well over 7 innings, allowing 9 hits and 3 runs with 1 K. He was upstaged by the rookie though. Os LF Luke Scott homered in the 7th for the last run of the game.

Star of the Game-

Waters- Much needed kick in the arm for starting pitching starved Os! His teammates were fired up and pumped for the 9 yr minor league veteran,”That’s great. Nine years of frustration, and he took it out on the best team in baseball,” designated hitter Aubrey Huff said.

Orioles Notes-

Scott had 3 hits, Markakis and Mora added 2 apiece….SS Juan Castro was 0 for 3… CF Adam Jones’, whose left foot is broken, was placed on the DL and could miss 4-6 weeks or the season,doctors ordered him to have no baseball related activity for at least 3 weeks

Next Game-

Wednesday, series finale in California, 3:35 pm

Orioles LH Garrett Olson(8-5,5.67) vs Angels RH Ervin Santana(12-5,3.38)

Game 111 Recap-

The Baltimore Orioles, who have been a comeback team all season, staged one of their best Monday night but it was not enough as they lost to Los Angeles Angels 6-5 in California. The Os scored 4 runs in the ninth vs 2 of the better relievers in MLB in ace set-up man Scott Shields(2.93) and closer Francisco Rodriquez(2.40). In the bottom of the inning, closer LH George Sherrill(3-5,4.27,30 saves) lost the game on a bases loaded walk.

RH Dennis Sarfate(4-2,4.58) got his 2nd ML start for Baltimore and have up the first 5 runs of the game. RF Nick Markakis had 2 hits with 3 rbi while 3b Melvin Mora added 2 hits and 2 rbi as well. Los Angeles scored a run in the 1st(rbi single from 1b Mark Teixeira), 2 in the 3rd(Vlad Guerrero 2 run homer) and 2 more runs in the 4th(DH Garrett Anderson infield single& a HBP) to pile up a 4-0 lead.

Markakis plated on a run on a ground out in the 5th, setting the stage for the 4 run rally in the 9th. Shields got 2 outs but also allowed 2 hits. Rodriquez, who is on pace to set the ML saves record, looked to end the game on a ball to 1st but Teixeira’s error extended the inning. Markakis singled in 2 runs and Mora followed with a double to plate 2 and tie the game at 5.

Angels CF Torii Hunter doubled vs Sherrill to lead off the home 9th. An out and intentional walk followed. Sherrill got an another out and walked C Jeff Mathis. Los Angeles speedster Chone Figgins took ball four for a 6-5 victory and a tough loss for Baltimore.

Star of the Game-

Orioles Team- Lots of teams quitting and not showing character, this team continues to fight and claw for Manager Dave Trembley.

Orioles Notes-

CF Adam Jones has flown to Baltimore to get an MRI on his injured wrist, Jay Payton took his spot in the field, batting 8th….SS Brandon Fahey was optioned down to Triple A while Waters was called up two pitch Tuesdays game

Next Game-

Tuesday, 10:05 Game 2 of 3 game series
LH Chris Waters(1st ML appearance) vs Angels RH Jon Garland(10-6,4.30)

Game 110 Recap-

The Seattle Mariners rallied for 5 runs over the final three innings, salvaging the final game of a 3 game spread, beating the Baltimore Orioles 8-4 Sunday at Safeco Field. In what was a back and forth battle most of the game, the Ms used some walks and good situational hitting to make the Os pay for their mistakes in the later stages of the contest. LF Raul Ibanez(2 hits, 3 rbi) delivered the big blow in the 7th with a 2 run single. Former all star  Mariners closer LH J.J.  Putz pitched a strong inning and a third for the win(3-4).

The teams exchanged the lead early when each club scored 2 runs in the 1st 2 stanzas. Seattle scored twice in the 1st vs veteran RH Daniel Cabrera(7-7,4.97) with CF Jeremy Reed tripling in a run and coming home via an Ibanez sacrifice fly. Baltimore countered in the 2nd against struggling veteran RH Carlos Silva(4-12,5.92) when LF Luke Scott(single) and C Guillermo Quiroz(double) collected rbi.  This trend continued all game as the teams matched runs in the 3rd(homer by Oriole 2b Brian Roberts & sac fly by Reed for Seattle) & 6th(rbi single from Baltimore 1b Kevin Millar & a homer by Mariners 2b Jose  Lopez).

With the game tied at 4-4, Cabrera walked 2 of the first 3 batters of the 7th inning after allowing no free passes all game. LH Jamie Walker entered the game with the bases loaded  but an fielding error allowed a run to score to make it 5-4 Seattle. Ibanez followed with his big  blow & it was quickly 7-4. Walker was removed and veteran side armer Chad Bradford produced a double play to end the inning. Rookie C Jeff Clement added an insurance run in the 8th with an rbi single.

Star of the Game-

Ibanez- Solid, underrated veteran. Stunned he was not moved at the deadline, might(?) clear waivers?

Orioles Notes-

Roberts, Millar & Scott had 2 hits….Alex Cintron started at SS and was 1 for 4, however, his error in the 7th opened the floodgates for the decisive inning…LH Brian Burres was optioned out to Triple A Friday and Cintron took his roster spot

Next Game-

Monday vs Los Angeles Angels, starting a 3 game series  at Angel Stadium of Anaheim

Orioles RH Dennis Sarfate(4-2,4.00) vs Angels LH Joe Saunders(14-5,3.09)

Game 109 Recap-

RH SP Jeremy Guthrie(8-8,3.35) was the story, retiring 26 of the final 28 batters he faced, leading the Baltimore Orioles to a 3-1 victory over the Seattle Mariners 3-1 Saturday at Safeco Field. Guthrie allowed 4 hits with only a first inning run against him(LF Raul Ibanez rbi double), he struck out 2 and walked one. He won for the 6th time in 7 decisions and posted the 3rd Orioles complete game of the season.

3b Melvin Mora(2 hits) doubled home CF Adam Jones for the games 1st run in the opening frame. Ibanez answered in the bottom of the inning to tie the score at 1. In the 4th, C Ramon Hernandez singled in Mora for the decisive run. DH Aubrey Huff plated Jones in the 7th with an rbi single.

Star of the Game-

Guthrie- Quickly becoming the staff ace, would have 11-12 wins with some luck and run support
Guthrie-

Orioles News-

Jones(.279) had 3 hits, while Mora and Huff had 2 apiece…. 2b Brian Roberts added stole his 28th base

Next Game-

Sunday,4:10 at Safeco Field vs Mariners

Orioles RH Daniel Cabrera(7-6,4.81) vs Seattle RH Carlos Silva(4-12,5.95)