Today just feels like a special occasion. The Orioles and Cubs don't match up very often. It has only happened six times ever and the last time was on June 26, 2008. Just for reference here is a little info about the previous matchup between the two squads:
Radhames Liz started on the bump. Dave Trembley was the manager and, at the time, the team had a winning record; 41-37. Alex Cintron was the shortstop. Some guys out of the bullpen were Chad Bradford and Brian Burres. And Kevin Millar was the O's clean-up hitter. Meanwhile, Adam Jones was swinging the seven stick. My, how far they have come.
But beyond the history something else that every Oriole fan will be interested in is the pitching matchup; Gausman v. Arrieta. One is the new hope, and the other a failed project.
We were always told that Jake had the stuff to become a premier hurler and now, he seems to be on the precipice of just that. But we were also told that he was meantally weak. So, perhaps the ease of playing for a cellar dweller without expectations is easy for him. But wasn't that exactly who the Orioles were just a few years ago? We will find that out today when in walks his former club. His performances have created hype. Will he rise to it or fall flat?
Lineups
Baltimore Orioles | Chicago Cubs |
RF Nick Markakis (L) | CF Arismendy Alcantara (S) |
1B Steve Pearce (R) | SS Javier Baez (R) |
CF Adam Jones (R) | 1B Anthony Rizzo (L) |
LF Nelson Cruz (R) | 3B Luis Valbeuna (L) |
3B Chris Davis (L) | LF Chris Coghlan (L) |
SS J.J. Hardy (R) | RF Ryan Sweeney (L) |
2B Jonathan Schoop (R) | 2B Logan Watkins (L) |
C Caleb Joseph (R) | C John Baker (L) |
RHP Kevin Gausman (L) | RHP Jake Arrieta (R) |