The Orioles games continue to frustrate their fans as they struggle to put together a consistent stretch of quality play. For nearly the last three months, the team has been stuck playing at a .500 pace, dating back to June 10. Their latest disappointment came with a 7-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday, adding to their inconsistent performance. For a more detailed breakdown of the game, check out the full recap
Offensive Struggles Continue
Once again, the Orioles’ offense has disappeared. They’ve managed just four runs in their last three games, though they did win one of them. While not a complete disaster, maintaining this level of offense will make it difficult for the team to even sustain a .500 pace, much less improve on it. If the Orioles want to remain competitive, they need to break out of this slump and start scoring at least four or more runs per game.
Yankees Pull Ahead
Adding insult to injury, the New York Yankees took advantage of the Orioles’ loss and moved a half-game ahead in the standings after shutting out the Cubs for two consecutive games. The Orioles still have 20 games left to make up distance, but it’s obvious that they’ll need to perform better than a 10-10 record in those remaining 20 games. The next series, which runs from September 24 to 26, may be quite important in deciding their future.
Wild Card Outlook
While the Orioles are struggling, they are still in a relatively comfortable position in the wild card race. Eleven is their magic number to secure a postseason berth. Reaching 93 wins would ensure that no team currently outside the playoff picture could catch them. The magic number to secure the top wild card spot, WC1, and guarantee home-field advantage for the wild card round is 15.
Importance of Finishing Strong
To solidify their playoff position and reduce these magic numbers, the Orioles need to start winning more than half their games as the season winds down. The team has a chance to recover from Saturday’s loss with a win today, and if other teams lose, they could chip away at the postseason magic numbers.
Odd Start Time and Broadcast Info
Today’s Orioles games has an unusual 12:05 PM start time, and it will only be broadcast on The Roku Channel. Fans can still tune in to the Orioles Radio Network for audio. Corbin Burnes will take the mound for the Orioles in the series finale, while Zack Littell will start for the Rays. Burnes struggled in August, and although he had a decent first start in September, fans will be hoping he can return to form.
Around the BlogO’sphere
What is known about each injured Orioles player’s recovery schedule (The Baltimore Banner)
Injured players returning to the lineup will be crucial for the Orioles as they make their final push for the playoffs. Understanding when each player is expected back will help set expectations.
The Orioles’ in-division record will be very noticeable if they win the AL East. (Melewski, Steve)
The Orioles have performed exceptionally well against their AL East rivals, boasting a 29-16 record within the division. In contrast, the Yankees have struggled with a 22-23 record.
Johnson, Set to Make MLB Debut with Phillies, Has Enjoyed Philosophy Change Since Orioles Trade (NBC Sports Philadelphia)
Former Orioles prospect Seth Johnson is set to make his MLB debut with the Phillies after being traded earlier this year. Although the Orioles have been on the right side of many trades, this one may be one that didn’t work out in their favor as Johnson looks to make an impact.
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