Monday Bird Droppings

The Orioles ended their season series against the A's on a high note with a righteous thumping. By my count, they hadn't taken a season series against them since 1998. Oof. As an added bonus they made up a little space in the wild card race. The O's rest today and then head to Boston in the first of three late season series. If the O's are really going to challenge, the time is now. The place is now.

School of Roch: What's happening with the Orioles' roster this week? Won't you join the Professor in a little idle speculation?

PressBox: Orioles Win Series Against Athletics, Inch Closer To Wild Card It wasn't a sweep, but a lot of positives to take away.

After a year in the 'pen, Matusz wants to start | Comcast SportsNet Baltimore That's adorable.

Hunter also brings the power for Orioles - Stats & Info Blog - ESPN This is a couple days old, but a little national press love for the Judoka.

McGair: Bogaerts could be this year's version of Orioles' Machado | The Woonsocket Call Ehhhhh....could be.

County Clipboard: Monterey High alum Lucas Herbst playing well for Orioles affiliate - MontereyHerald.com Always a sucker for the hometown boy makes good stories.

On this day in 1962, scrap heap special and future HOFer Robin Roberts helped the O's complete a five game sweep of the Yankees with a 2-1 victory. Jim Gentile hit a go ahead homer, his 29th long ball of the year. In 1966, the Orioles hit back to back pinch hit homers in the 9th to tie Boston in a game they would eventually win 3-2. In 1973, Paul Blair's inside the park grand slam helped the O's to their 13th straight victory.

...and on this day in 2012, the Orioles acquired Fairfax, VA native Joe Saunders for Matt Lindstrom.

It's the birthday of Brendan Harris and former minor league manager Billy DeMars.