Blue Jays 4, Orioles 1: Hail Cesar?

The Orioles managed just two hits on the day, a single by Cesar Izturis to lead off the game, and a single by Miguel Abreu with two outs in the 9th. Not exactly a banner day for a lineup that included so many regulars. Many of them hadn't played in a few days, though, so perhaps they weren't in the swing of things. (swing. get it?)

Starting pitcher Jason Berken started off well but ultimately struggled (not that his defense helped him out). In the first he put two on with none out thanks to a single and then an error by LF Jonathan Tucker, but he got out unscathed. He pitched a good second inning, and in the third he allowed two singles, the second of which Nick Markakis overran for the O's second error of the game. Berken fell apart a little after that, walking a Blue Jay on four pitches and allowing two more singles. The end result was a 3-0 Blue Jays lead.

Kam Mickolio replaced Berken and didn't fare so well himself. In two innings he walked three and gave up a solo HR to Travis Snider. A lot of people talk like it's a forgone conclusion that Kam is going north with the Orioles but he hasn't looked that great, honestly.

Cla Meredith followed Mickolio with another perfect outing. In six appearances so far this spring, here is Meredith's line: 5.0 IP, 0 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 3 K. Not too shabby. Jake Arrieta also pitched impressively, which was good to see. He went 2 innings, giving up 2 hits and 0 walks. He struck out 4.

Tomorrow the Orioles and Blue Jays face off again, this time in the Blue Jays' home stadium. Jeremy Guthrie will pitch for the Orioles and Ricky Romero for the Blue Jays. The game is being broadcast by MLB.com on Gameday Audio.