Blue Jays AL East Recap: Highs and Lows

Apr 30, 2017; Bronx, NY, USA; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Darren O’Day (56) pitches against the New York Yankees during the ninth inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Baltimore- Battling Battles for First

15-8

The Orioles struggled on the final week of April. Despite taking the week opener from Tampa Bay, they ran into troubles during the weekend. It was a wild weekend in New York. The Orioles not only lost the series, but are no longer in sole possession of first. The series saw the Orioles outscored 30-22, but the Orioles seemed evenly matched with the Yankees. Two of the three games went into extra’s. The first game the Orioles even led by 9-1, before Kevin Gausman and the bullpen let the team down. Short outings from the rotation forced the O’s bullpen to work extra hard to finish the week.

The pitching woes should be quickly addressed for Baltimore. Chris Tillman is nearing recovery and will slot in as the number one starter. Zach Britton too will add much needed relief for the bullpen. Reliever Brad Brach has been more than competent as closer (5 Saves, 1.93 ERA), despite blowing a save Friday Night. The Orioles will get no chance for rest as they play the Red Sox to start the week.

Final Takeaway:

The Orioles blinked first, with the Yankees at the door, and the Red Sox right behind them. They’ll need a strong opening against the Red Sox to widen the gap at the top.

Schedule