The Orioles scored 10 runs today, and still managed to lose by eight runs. It's pretty impressive, actually. Also impressive is Jason Berken extending his streak. He now hasn't managed a win since his major league debut on May 29th. Berken hit an all time low today, allowing 6 ER on 7 H and 2 BB in just 1.1 innings. His completely useless self was followed by a parade of ugliness, with Brian Bass, Matt Albers, Mark Hendrickson, Cla Meredith, and Jim Johnson combining to give up 12 more runs.
The most frustrating thing was, after the Red Sox put up 7 runs over the first three innings, the Orioles offense exploded for 6 runs in the bottom of the third against Clay Buchholz. Just like that the Orioles were back in the game, but just as O's fans started to feel a glimmer of hope, Brian Bass and Matt Albers gave it away. The Red Sox scored 7 runs in the top of the 4th and the game wouldn't be close again.
The O's offense did what they could, led by Adam Jones. AJ went 3-4 with a double, a HR, and a walk. He knocked in 3 and scored 3. Ty Wigginton also had a great day at the plate, going 3-5 with a HR. Wiggy played 3B in place of that cry baby Melvin Mora and if he keeps hitting like he did today Melvin will never get back on the field. Altogether the Orioles offense combined for 10 runs on 15 hits. They hit 4 doubles and 2 home runs. They took 6 walks. Only the catcher position didn't contribute a hit. But with pitching as bad as it was, they might as well have saved it for another day.
The O's end their home stand at 2-5 and now head on the road for four at Detroit and three at Toronto. If Luke Scott can't get himself going against the Tigers, then I fear all hope is lost.