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Nowhere to go but up for the O’s pitching staff after last night’s performance, right? David Hess will start for the Orioles and it is important that he get fairly deep into this game after the bullpen covered 6.1 innings last night. (Only six if you don’t count the out recorded by Danny Valencia. No indication from Buck Showalter if he is available out of the pen tonight.) It is Hess’ first start in the majors since June 29.
The big news of the day is a fresh arm that has been added to the bullpen for tonight’s game. Evan Phillips, born in Salisbury and acquired in the Gausman/O’Day trade from Atlanta, has been recalled from Norfolk. This was the corresponding roster move after Jhan Marinez was placed on the disabled list with a hamstring strain. Count me as being excited about this new bullpen addition. Phillips was dominating AAA hitters for Gwinnett, registering a 1.99 ERA and striking out 59 batters in 40.2 innings. With Phillips and Cody Carroll in the bullpen, those of us who are still tuning into O’s games will get a look at some of the prospects acquired in July’s firesale.
Offensively, Showalter is putting out the exact same lineup as last night. Jonathan Villar seems to be the answer to the leadoff man problem that has persisted all season. He collected two hits last night in his Orioles debut and will look to stay hot tonight.
- Jonathan Villar 2B
- Tim Beckham SS
- Adam Jones CF
- Mark Trumbo DH
- Chris Davis 1B
- Trey Mancini LF
- Renato Núñez 3B
- Jace Peterson RF
- Caleb Joseph C
- David Hess RHP
This lineup will face rookie Ariel Jurado, who is making his third big league appearance.