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Are you someone who has a pesky job where you couldn't watch the O's walk off against the Yankees earlier today in their first game of the doubleheader? You are? Well, you are in luck. We cover those O's games for you so be sure to check out the recap posted earlier on the site. (Trust me, I know the writer. He's a cool guy.) But on to game two!
The Orioles don't yet have the division crown wrapped. That is a few days away. However, this game is still huge for quite a few members of the Orioles.
As you may have heard, Chris Davis has been suspended for 25 games, including most of the potential postseason. Camden Chat's Stacey Folkemer gave the rundown of the whole situation this morning and Mark Brown gave even more background.
That said, this opens the door for a lot of guys. Steve Pearce is entrenched at first base, but third base is for the taking. Jimmy Parades made his case with a walk-off earlier today. Ryan Flaherty is Buck's favorite, while Kelly Johnson may be the most steady of the three. And this could be taken a step further with Jonathan Schoop's streaky play.
Not to mention, who is the fourth outfielder? Will Buck bring Delmon Young, David Lough or Alejandro De Aza with him to the ALDS? Maybe he keeps two. Young seems to have fallen out of favor, but his bat is usually better than the other options. Lough is the best fielder. De Aza is the most well-rounded. It's anyone's guess.
Meanwhile, on the mound Kevin Gausman is trying his darnedest to become the fourth starter for the O's heading into the playoffs. In the past, it seemed like a battle between he and Miguel Gonzalez. Now, it may be between Goose and tonight's starter Bud Norris.
The playoff spot is nearly in hand, but there is still plenty to play for.