Orioles 5 Royals 3

I know that my coverage lately has been about the Olympics, but I think I did a good job of keeping up with the birds during these games. The Orioles are played well during the Olympics. These guys would be in the playoffs if the season ended today. They are not as hot as the Rays who have won 6 straight, but we are only a half game behind them. Baltimore also controls the 2nd wild card spot currently. Have no fear O's fans, it looks like this team will in fact compete down to the wire.

The most recent surge by the Orioles has been led by their newest face. Manny Machado has been on fire with the Orioles. In just four games, Machado has an extra base hit in every game. He also now has 3 home runs after last night. 3 homers in 4 games is amazing from the youngster. With 4 straight games of getting extra base hits, Machado has tied a club record. This record was previously held by 3 Orioles, including Frank Robinson. Anytime you are mentioned in the same sentence as Frank Robinson, it is a positive thing. Good thing Duquette held onto this guy. Holy cow!

So the offensive charge was led by Machado, but he wasn't the best player yesterday. That title still belongs to Nick Markakis. The right fielder was 2-4 with a home run and an RBI. It was Markakis's 13th home run of the season. He raised his average to .288 after last night. His .351 OBP leads the team unless you count Machado of course. Actually McLouth is slightly higher in his short time as well. However, Markakis has been the key to this lineup since moving atop it. He is one player that we are sure glad is on our side.

Tommy Hunter got mixed results as the starter and picked up a no decision after getting through 5. The bullpen once again was spectacular. Luis Ayala picked up the win to move to (4-3) after pitching a scoreless 6th. Ayala lowered his ERA to 2.56 and was very economical throwing only 8 pitches.

Ayala was aided by Patton, Strop, and Johnson. That trio all pitched a scoreless inning. Patton and Strop picked up holds and Johnson the save. It was Strop's 19th hold of the year. The dominant power arm also lowered his ERA to 1.22. Meanwhile, our closer Jim Johnson picked up his 34th save of the season. The back of the Oriole bullpen continues to dominate.

-Noland