Tuesday night Orioles game thread: vs. Athletics, 7:05

What a difference a day makes. The Orioles have momentum on their side now after a 12-4 drubbing of the Athletics last night at Camden Yards in the series opener.

Tonight’s pitching matchup features a pair of southpaws. For the Athletics, veteran Brett Anderson gets the nod. So far this year, he’s allowed three runs over 11.1 cumulative innings, with only seven strikeouts to go along with six walks.

A key to the game, and the series, will be working Anderson’s pitch count and forcing the A’s to go to their bullpen early again, which could have even greater effects down the road in game three and four.

John Means get the call for the O’s, making his first major league start. His wicked changeup has been a valuable weapon this season in the early going, and he will need it tonight in order to work deep into the game and spare the Orioles bullpen. Seeing as he’s only made three relief appearances this season, there’s a good chance he’ll be on a pitch count.

As far as the O’s lineup, Cedric Mullins will shift to the bench after his two-triple performance last night. Dwight Smith Jr. returns to left field and Hanser Alberto remains at third base after a couple impressive diving plays there yesterday. Also of note, Rio Ruiz will get his first start of the year at first base, replacing Chris Davis in the lineup.

In transaction news, the Orioles placed RHP Nate Karns on the 10-day injured list today with a forearm strain and recalled RHP Evan Phillips from Triple-A Norfolk. RHP Alex Cobb was also placed on the IL with a lumbar strain.

Orioles lineup

1. Jonathan Villar 2B
2. Joey Rickard CF
3. Trey Mancini RF
4. Renato Nunez DH
5. Dwight Smith Jr. LF
6. Hanser Alberto 3B
7. Rio Ruiz 1B
8. Pedro Severino C
9. Richie Martin SS

LHP John Means

Athletics lineup

1. Marcus Semien SS
2. Matt Chapman 3B
3. Stephen Piscotty RF
4. Khris Davis DH
5. Chad Pinder LF
6. Mark Canha 1B
7. Ramón Laureano CF
8. Jurickson Profar 2B
9. Josh Phegley C

LHP Brett Anderson