Probable pitchers: RHP Shane Baz (4-9, 4.05 ERA, 105 Ks) vs. RHP Reynaldo López (4-3, 3.95 ERA, 60 Ks)
Where to observe: MASN/MASN+
Through two video games in opposition to the NL East-leading Braves, we’ve gotten two thrillers which have felt an terrible lot like playoff video games. This afternoon, the Orioles will attempt to take the rubber match and transfer a step nearer to a playoff spot.
Both Games 1 and a couple of vs. Atlanta had been one-run video games that the Orioles had each probability to win. On Friday, Taylor Ward didn’t capitalize on a bases-loaded, two-outs-in-the-Ninth alternative, and defensive miscues in the end value the O’s in extras. Last night time, Dylan Beavers did what Ward couldn’t, delivering a walk-off single to proper to tie the sequence at one game apiece.
Baltimore badly desires to be taking part in baseball in October, however their lackluster first three months imply each game from right here on out is a significant game. The O’s presently sit three video games underneath .500 however solely 2.5 video games again from the ultimate AL Wild Card spot. And whereas 2.5 video games looks like a surmountable distance to beat, Baltimore is one in every of 5 groups which can be 5 video games or much less from that Wild Card spot.
The congested American League means merely taking part in good baseball isn’t sufficient; the Orioles are 12-6 in July however solely two video games nearer to a playoff spot than they had been at first of the month. And so, whereas each game can’t be seen as a must-win, each sequence actually is from right here till October.
Looking to safe that sequence win for the O’s is right-hander Shane Baz. The 27-year-old hasn’t been fairly as dominant currently because the likes of Trevor Rogers, Kyle Bradish and Brandon Young, however nonetheless constantly provides the Orioles an opportunity to win each time he toes the rubber. Over his final 9 begins, Baz owns a 3.54 ERA, a .260 batting common in opposition to and is averaging just below six innings per begin.
Starting pitching has been the Orioles’ calling card via the primary two video games in opposition to Atlanta, with Rogers and Young combining for 13.1 IP, 10 H, 3 ER, 2 BB and 12 Ks throughout Games 1 and a couple of. Baz will look to proceed that development of dominance as he makes his first-ever begin vs. Atlanta. Of the Braves’ regular starters, the right-hander has solely confronted Mauricio Dubón and Joey Bart, with the pair going 2-for-12 with no homers.
Taking the ball for Atlanta is former All-Star Reynaldo López. The 32-year-0ld right-hander struggled in his final outing, giving up 9 hits and 5 runs over 4.1 innings in a loss to the Padres. He did, nonetheless, dominate the Orioles the final time he pitched at Camden Yards. Back in 2024, López tossed six scoreless innings in Baltimore, whereas placing out eight, in a 6-3 Braves’ victory.
