After two disappointing losses to the Seattle Mariners in their three-game series this week, the Baltimore Orioles got a huge shot in the arm as Brian Matusz threw eight shutout innings as they beat the Texas Rangers, 4-0.
They snapped a two-game losing streak, and used a four-run seventh inning to emerge victorious.
Matusz – who had a season full of ups and downs – perhaps had his best showing in the majors so far on Thursday. On the night, he just allowed five hits and one walk against the Rangers – a team more than likely playoff-bound.
We all know he’s got the stuff – the question is can he pitch with some consistency?
The young lefty’s outing also underscored why the Orioles have done so well under Buck Showalter since he took the helm of the team. The starting pitchers have put together quite a run of quality outings, as 14 out of their 16 starts have gone at least seven innings.
That in turn has rested the bullpen, and it’s not surprising how much better they have performed.
Again, it’s amazing how different the Orioles have performed under Showalter. I’m waiting for this team to resort to the play that killed them before Showalter arrived. However, it looks like something has been lit under this team and perhaps they can play a role in deciding the fate of some of the playoff contenders along with the American League East race.
