Results
The Orioles went 3-2 against the Nationals and the Yankees. They scored 12 runs and allowed 15.
Standings
The Orioles entered the break at 52-42, first place in the AL East by four games! Their predicted end-of-season finish is still 88-74.
Best Hitter / Worst Hitter
Manny Machado dominated the opposition this week to the tune of a 330 wRC+ (.550/.591/.950 with two home runs). You better believe that was the best in baseball by a good margin. Adam Jones, however, put up a putrid -6 wRC+: .167/.167/.208 line with 0 HR.
Best Start / Worst Start
Wei-Yin Chen compiled an okay start against the Nationals. He was knocked around for 8 hits and three earned runs in 5.2 innings, including a dinger, but struck out six and didn't walk a batter. Bud Norris's start wasn't so good. In four innings he surrendered five earned runs on six hits including two home runs. He walked a batter and struck out just two.
Clutch PA of the Week
This one goes to Nick Hundley. In Friday's game against the Yankees, the Orioles entered the bottom of the 10th tied 2-2. Adam Warren had just replaced Dellin Betances on the hill. Machado doubled to lead off the inning, but Ryan Flaherty struck out swinging. Hundley stepped to the plate, worked the count to 2-2, and delivered a line drive single to score Machado and seal the walk-off victory.
Clutch Relief Appearance of the Week
The day before, against the Nationals, Zach Britton protected a one-run lead in the bottom of the 9th. He got Kevin Frandsen and Scott Hairston to ground out, allowed a single to Anthony Rendon, then retired Jayson Werth on (what else?) a groundout.
Upcoming Week
The Orioles resume play on Friday on the west coast against Oakland, then travel to Los Angeles (or Anaheim, whichever you prefer) to face the Angels.