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Two game losing streaks feel like they hurt so much more than seven game winning streaks feel good. The dread of the fall in progress, not knowing when it will stop, is a real thing. After all, the Orioles have lost these last two games with their two actual good starting pitchers on the mound. Now it's three more games before those guys pitch again.
Oh, and for Seattle tonight as the Orioles look to avoid a third loss in a row? Yes, it's another lefty, although if it makes you feel any better, it's not a soft-tossing lefty at all. In fact, James Paxton has averaged over 97 miles per hour on his fastball in his six big league starts this season. That's surely helped him pick up 41 strikeouts in 34.2 innings pitched.
Even with those early gaudy strikeout numbers, Paxton's ERA is not so impressive - largely because of an eye-popping .415 BABIP. Bad luck or bad pitching? We'll find out for ourselves tonight, but don't be surprised if every single line drive goes right at a fielder, because there's a good chance Paxton is due for some regression that works in his favor.
Still, best of luck to Tyler Wilson and company tonight. They're going to need it.