Bob Haynie: Orioles Magic In Milwaukee
Down to their final out, things were looking bleak for the Baltimore Orioles in Milwaukee on Monday afternoon against the Brewers. Then lightening struck as the Birds rallied against former teammate Francisco Rodriguez and eventually earned themselves an exciting victory on Memorial Day.
With the Orioles trailing 6-4 with two outs in the top of the ninth inning, 2B Jonathan Schoop hit the second of his two home runs to pull the Birds to within a run. After pinch-hitter Delmon Young singled, RF Nick Markakis doubled to score pinch-runner David Lough to tie the game.
A tough outing for Brewers closer Rodriguez, but a big rally for Baltimore.
There was more two-out drama in the 10th as SS J.J. Hardy doubled and was brought home on a single from new Orioles catcher Nick Hundley. Milwaukee reliever Rob Wooten couldn't help but feel bewildered after this unfortunate--for him--turn of events that left his club trailing 7-6.
Zach Britton survived the bottom of the inning as he induced Irving Falu to ground into a game-ending double play. Britton earned his third save as the Orioles won their second-straight day game.
The comeback saved SP Chris Tillman from what looked like a probable loss. Tillman was roughed up by the Brewers who touched him for seven hits and six earned runs on 5.2 IP. Since throwing a shutout at the K.C. Royals, Tillman has pitched a total of 6.2 innings and has allowed 13 hits and 12 earned runs.
Time to worry? I would think so. The Orioles' ace has really been scuffling lately. Obviously, if they want to challenge in the AL East, Baltimore needs to Tillman to step up in a big way.
While Chris Tillman struggles, the Birds are getting their power mojo back.
The Orioles have clubbed 32 HR's in May which is the second-highest total for the month in all of baseball. Only the Toronto Blue Jays have hit more.
Monday's win was exciting and dramatic and the Orioles' third in four games and keeps them in the top half of the division standings.
Hopefully, it could be the kind of W that propels them to extended streak of success.