It was a very frustrating Friday for the Baltimore Orioles as they lost to the Texas Rangers, 2-0, in the second contest of a four game set.
Nick Markakis got his first career ejection after arguing balls and strikes with home plate umpire Jeff Nelson; meanwhile, Buck Showalter too vented at Nelson later and found himself tossed – only after a memorable tirade that had shades of Earl Weaver written all over it.
Then, the fans got into Nelson for the final few innings of the game attempting to get under his skin, booing, mocking cheers and saying sarcastic things.
Seriously, Nelson’s strike zone was fairly questionable on the night and that in turn hurt the Orioles, but then again, C.J. Wilson – who on the night started for the Rangers on the mound – was brilliant.
Overall, Wilson stymied the offense for 8 2/3 innings, allowed only three hits and struck out twelve. Of course, Nelson helped Wilson on the night, and the Rangers’ catcher, Taylor Teagarden sold the calls well.
In the end, the Oriole offense was quieted and they had little chance on the night to upend the Rangers.
The Baltimore Orioles were shutout for the ninth time this season.
Jake Arrieta, who started on the mound for the Birds, did do his job on the night and had a quality start. He may have taken the loss, but he gave up two runs (only one was earned) on eight hits in 6 2/3 innings of work on the evening.
