The magic for the Orioles did not manifest itself tonight against the Texas Rangers in the start of their four-game set.
After yesterday’s win, everyone in the region was happy about the Orioles’ recent run and were hoping for it to continue against the formidable Rangers; however, baseball can be a humbling game.
There were no miracle comebacks, dazzling pitching performances or seeing the offense break through again for Baltimore, as they lost to Texas, 14-7. Both the Rangers and Orioles are 19-10.
Baltimore is tied with the Tampa Bay Rays for first place in the American League East.
The Orioles saw their five game win streak end, and the Rangers jumped all over Brian Matusz, who gave seven earned runs in five innings. You have got to wonder if Brian Matusz will be the next pitcher sent down to Norfolk, as Tommy Hunter was demoted.
He can not last at the major league level much longer there’s not any consistency at all whatsoever.
Matusz was not consistent at all from frame to frame on Monday, and a loaded Texas squad – plus with former Oriole Brandon Snyder, who drove in six runs – made him pay.
If there was a positive from Monday’s game for Baltimore, pitcher Stuart Pomeranz – who was promoted from Triple-A – tossed three scoreless innings of relief.
However, the Rangers attacked again in the ninth as Jason Berken allowed seven runs – only two earned – in that period.
It was just a bad night for the Orioles and was even more of a letdown considering how well they had played.
Baltimore pitching gave up three homers as Michael Young, Josh Hamilton and Snyder took the Birds’ pitching deep. The Rangers pounded out 19 hits and each starter had at least one.
For the Orioles, J.J. Hardy added three more hits, and Wilson Betemit and Robert Andino each homered. Texas starter Matt Harrison pitched well against Baltmore, going seven innings and giving up three runs.
