The Orioles head into Yankee Stadium tonight with one simple request: a win. After dropping the first three games of this series, Baltimore is staring down the barrel of a four-game sweep and a five-game losing streak. Let's be honest—watching the last four games has tested even the most loyal fans. The enthusiasm is running low, but as any baseball fan knows, one feel-good victory can flip the script in an instant. That's the beauty of fandom: hope springs eternal.
Taking the mound tonight is Shane Baz, tasked with playing the role of stopper. He's coming off a solid outing against the Houston Astros, a team known for its potent offense. The Orioles' front office has talked up Baz's ace-like potential, and while we haven't seen it consistently yet, tonight feels like the perfect stage for a breakout. Mike Elias has belief in him, and we're all dying to see that faith rewarded.
On the other side, the Yankees send out Cam Schlittler, who has been absolutely dealing. With a microscopic 1.51 ERA and league-best numbers in WHIP and strikeout-to-walk ratio, he's a tough matchup. The silver lining? At least he's not a lefty, which might give the Orioles' lineup a fighting chance.
Manager Brandon Hyde is shaking things up tonight. Taylor Ward and Tyler O'Neill get the night off, making way for Colton Cowser in left field and Dylan Beavers in right. Cowser, in particular, has a chance to remind everyone why he's a key piece of the future. Over at third base, Coby Mayo is also sitting, with Blaze Alexander getting the start.
Speaking of third base, there's some concerning news: Jordan Westburg is experiencing elbow discomfort when throwing and has been shut down from all baseball activities. While it's not entirely surprising given the wear and tear of the season, it's a gut punch for a team that could use all the healthy arms it can get. When will we be allowed to have nice things?
Here's how the Orioles line up tonight: Gunnar Henderson (SS), Adley Rutschman (C), Dylan Beavers (RF), Pete Alonso (1B), Samuel Basallo (DH), Leody Taveras (CF), Colton Cowser (LF), Jeremiah Jackson (2B), and Blaze Alexander (3B).
The Yankees counter with: Trent Grisham (CF), Aaron Judge (RF), Cody Bellinger (LF), Jasson Domínguez (DH), Jazz Chisholm Jr. (2B), Paul Goldschmidt (1B), Austin Wells (C), Ryan McMahon (3B), and José Caballero (SS).
First pitch is at 7:05 PM. Let's see if the Orioles can turn the tide and give us something to cheer about.