Last week, the Orioles were staring down disaster after a humiliating four-game sweep by the Yankees that had fans wondering if the season was already slipping away. Fast forward a week, and the Birds have stopped the bleeding—at least for now—with wins over the Marlins and Nationals. But with the Yankees back on the schedule, the real test is whether Baltimore can actually compete this time around.

In this week's podcast episode, I've officially abandoned my comparison to the 2014 Orioles, who stayed around .500 before making a run. These O's aren't holding that line. Instead, I'm looking south to the Nationals, who were a mess in late May before flipping the script and winning the World Series. It's a thin thread to cling to, but it's all we've got right now.

One listener also sent in a burning question: who actually makes the final call on the Orioles lineup each night? My answer might be my hottest take yet—especially since nobody on this site seems to believe it. It's manager Craig Albernaz. I know, I know. But hear me out in the episode, where I break down why the skipper has more control than you think.

This is my weekly Orioles podcast, covering everything from lineup debates to the team's roller-coaster ride. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows. And if you've got thoughts on where this team is headed, send them in—they could end up in the mailbag on the next episode.