So, if you have been following the Orioles this year, you would know that they have been absolutely dreadful at 2 things. Those two things are starting pitching and defense. On defense only Markakis and Hardy have been really good, while Jones and Wieters have been pretty good. Everyone else on defense has been dreadful. The pitching staff has been a disaster outside of Jason Hammel and Wei Yin Chen. However, someone else came through last night.Tommy Hunter actually put in an amazing performance last night. Not only that, but he helped himself out with terrific defense. Hunter who has been dreadful this season pitched 7 1/3 innings of quality baseball. For an overworked bullpen, Hunter's performance was critical. He only gave up 1 run in what was easily his best performance that I can remember. This was an incredible time for Hunter to come through.
The great pitching didn't end there. The overworked Strop got a break from his 8th inning role and Troy Patton delivered. Patton picked up his 6th hold by pitching the rest of the 8th. His work turned it over to Jim Johnson. Johnson hasn't been as sharp since the all-star break, but man did he come through last night. He picked up save #27 and lowered his ERA to 2.50 after two horrible performances. I'd still say Johnson is the top closer in baseball even after his ERA ballooned. Part of the reason it got so high is that he gave up 5 in a meaningless game the other night. No need to bring him in when we are down 9. Jim still is 27/29 in save chances which is pretty darn good.
Who scored the runs for the Orioles? Well, Adam Jones connected with another Adam Bomb. This the 22nd home run of the season for Jones. How often does a 1st inning Oriole home run decide the game. Last night a 2 run Oriole home run decided the game and I'd love to see it happen again today.
Go O's!
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