One day after an extremely controversial loss and some heated statements from 1st baseman Mark Reynolds, the Orioles got a huge win yesterday. Baltimore won behind a spectacular pitching performance from Zach Britton. That's right, Britton recalled before the game because Steve Johnson had to be used in relief a few nights back, was dominant. Britton threw 7 strong scoreless innings on 103 pitches. We all know Britton has this in him, but it is impressive considering it was against the Detroit Tigers. It was also impressive because Britton has been dreadful this year. Even after last night, his ERA sits at 6.23. Opponents are hitting .301 against him. His numbers have been poor and pitches straight. Last night he had movement and picked up 5 strikeouts. He also improved to (2-1). Most important, he helped the Orioles beat a wild card contender.
The last two innings were handled by the usual suspects. However, the Orioles won 3-2 and not 3-0. It did not go over as smooth as usual. Pedro Strop's scoreless inning streak ended as he gave up 2 in the 8th. Strop though was able to recover and get the hold. His 21st on the season. After last night's mishap, Strop's ERA is now 1.51. After Strop came the great Jim Johnson. Johnson pitched a scoreless ninth for save #36! Johnson is moving awfully close to that club record.
All of the RBIs came from Chris Davis. Davis hit a 3 run homer in the 7th inning off of Rick Porcello. It was his 19th on the season. It also could not have come at a better time. The Orioles needed this win to keep pace, and they got it. Taking the series against Detroit tomorrow would be huge.
-Noland
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