Thursday night Orioles game thread: vs. Marlins, 7:35

It’s hard to believe that a team so pummeled by COVID that it became the laughingstock of the major leagues could be playing the role of the bully that you wish would just leave you alone.

But that’s where we are.

The Miami Marlins went more than a week without playing a game, but since they’ve returned to the diamond, they’ve made the Orioles look downright silly at the plate. In three games this series, the Marlins have allowed one run. On 10 hits. Over a span of 23 innings.

Meanwhile, they’ve scored seven runs. A shade over two a game. And they’re on the verge of a sweep. If you’re on the Orioles and you wear a batting helmet, please report for your public shaming.

But, what is baseball if not the sport of perpetual redemption? There’s always another game. And sure enough, the O’s have one more chance to really break out the bats, score two - maybe even three - runs and deny Miami the sweep.

They’ll look to do it against Miami starter Jordan Yamamoto, who has yet to make an appearance this season. He was a rookie in 2019 and went 4-5 with a 4.46 ERA and 82 strikeouts in 78.2 innings.

The Orioles will throw Wade LeBlanc, an offseason acquisition who is 1-0 with a 4.09 ERA in two starts so far.

Orioles lineup

1. Hanser Alberto 2B

2. Anthony Santander RF

3. Jose Iglesias SS

4. Dwight Smith Jr. LF

5. Renato Nunez DH

6. Chance Sisco C

7. Austin Hays CF

8. Chris Davis 1B

9. Pat Valaika 3B

Wade LeBlanc LHP

Marlins lineup

1. Jonathan Villar DH

2. Jon Berti SS

3. Francisco Cervelli C

4. Jesus Aguilar 1B

5. Brian Anderson 3B

6. Lewis Brinson RF

7. Logan Forsythe 2B

8. Magneuris Sierra LF

9. Monte Harrison CF

Jordan Yamamoto RHP