We are now 33 games into the season and after a nice 6-1 start, reality has probably descended upon the team and Birdland.
Over the weekend, as we all know, the Orioles got swept by a Rays team that has now become a juggernaut in the American League. They battered yet another starter, Brad Bergesen, and once again caused the Orioles to rely on their bullpen — again.
The Orioles did get three runs on the board; however, the offense once again sputtered. So with a pitching staff now operating under a very low margin for error, once the Rays built up a good lead – in this case only two runs – the Orioles were done.
Right now, the Orioles have a severe problem with driving in runners in scoring position. That is killing them more than anything. They left nine on base on Sunday, and were 1-for-6 with men in scoring position. That’s not cutting it.
Furthermore, the Orioles got five walks and could not do much with them. When the series against the Mariners kick off today, there might be a lineup shake-up considering how lackluster the offense is right now.
That being said, with a 14-19 record, the Orioles are where I thought they would be. However, considering the talent level on the squad, pretty much everyone – except for a number of guys – are woefully under-performing. The veterans aren’t doing much, as are the youngsters.
It’s not good and it’s almost as if the more things change, the more they stay the same. Maybe the return of J.J. Hardy tonight might add a spark, but I would like to see Felix Pie play more — especially in left — and a lineup change.
The amazing thing is that the Orioles are still in thick of the A.L. East race despite being in last place now. If things don’t change soon, they will only bury themselves.
Let’s hope this is another rough patch for Baltimore instead of wondering if this what they are.
