Jeremy Guthrie won his 3rd game of the year despite another mediocre outing. He only lasted 5 innings, giving up 4 runs on 6 hits and 2 walks.
The story of the night had to be the offense, as the Adam Jones-less lineup knocked around Gil Meche and other Royals pitchers. Dave Trembley made the questionable decision to bat Cesar Izturis 2nd, he of the .298 OBP. Luckily it worked out as Cesar had two clutch hits and was a big part of the 9 runs the O's put on the board.
Cesar wasn't the only Oriole to have a great day at the plate. Brian Roberts, who is tired of people saying he can't hit because he's married, went 2-3 with a double, 2 walks, 3 runs, and was a stiff KC wind away from hitting a home run in the first. Nick Markakis was just his usual self, going 2-5 with a 2 doubles, 3 RBI, and a run. Huff only managed one hit on the day, but it was a home run so I don't hold that against him. Melvin Mora, who is slowly getting back to form after returning from the DL, contributed 2 hits, 2 walks, and 2 RBI. Even Felix Pie got in on the action with a double and a walk with 2 runs.
Pie actually looked really good out there. His double was due solely on his speed and guts and he flew around the bases and beat the throw. It makes me so sad that Adam is hurting, but if Pie can open a few eyes with this opportunity it'll all be worth it in the end.
Speaking of making the most of opportunities, Nolan Reimold made his highly anticipated major league debut and looked pretty good doing so. His first at bat he hit a line drive that unfortunately went right to the Royals shortstop. Then, in his fourth at bat of the game he slapped a grounder to the right side that just got between the first and second basemen. Happy first hit, Nolan! He was all smiles at first base, it was awesome. For his final at bat he absolutely SMOKED a ball down to third base that in most circumstances would probably be a double. But Mark Teahan made just an amazing play to rob him, and in the box score it'll just look like your garden variety ground out.
O's win! Note to the players: I hope you saved up some of your offense, because you've got Zack Greinke tonight.