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It's hump day! And the Orioles won last night! And the west coast night games are over (until August)! We made it!
If you, like me, were asleep last night when Manny Machado hit the Earl Weaver Special that would propel the Orioles into the win column, but sure to check out Bill Duck's recap of the game. Even if you were awake you should check it out, we finally get to vote for an MBP! It's been so long.
The Orioles wrap up their west coast swing this afternoon at 3 p.m. If they can beat Bud Norris they'll end their road trip at 4-5, a disappointing but still somewhat respectable record for such a grueling trip.
But first, links!
Five players who belong on All-Star rosters ... and five who don't-MLB - Keith Law Blog- ESPN
It's almost like Keith Law wants the Orioles fans to be mad at him, as he starts off with "What the hell is Brad Brach doing on an All-Star roster?" He notes that Brach isn't even the O's best reliever, which is true. But Zach Britton is also on the team. Brach is also currently leading the poll for who is the least deserving All Star. Boo.
Tillman, Machado and Showalter after O's 4-1 win - Steve Melewski
If you're looking for quotes from last night's win, Melewski has you covered.
Mark Trumbo wants in on the Home Run Derby - Baltimore Sun
He is the league leader in dongs, so it only makes sense.
MLB Rookie Report: Ariel Miranda, LHP, Baltimore Orioles - Minor League Ball
John Sickels thinks that the Cuban lefty has a live arm and the potential to return to the majors quickly.
Is today your birthday? Happy birthday! Your Orioles birthday buddy is Manny Machado, who turns 24 years old today. Happy birthday, Manny! It's also the birthday of old timey Orioles Barry Shetrone and Frank Kellert, neither of whom you should remember. They combined to play in 68 games over five seasons for the 1950s Orioles.
On this day in 1966, Boog Powell knocked in 11 runs over the course of a doubleheader, tying an American League record. And in 2000 the Orioles took a 7-0 lead into the second inning against the Yankees but blew the entire thing when the Yankees scored eight in one inning. Sidney Ponson walked four straight batters at one point in the inning. See now, THOSE were dark days.