Monday night Orioles game thread: vs. Red Sox, 7:05

The Orioles will look to avoid a four-game sweep at the hands of the Boston Red Sox. Unfortunately, if you’ve paid attention to the O’s record at home, it’s difficult to be optimistic. Maybe they are due?

Baltimore had a chance to win yesterday’s contest but eventually fell short. If the club hopes to get the best of Boston today, they will need a good showing from the bullpen. Starter Jorge López has yet to work more than five innings, and Brandon Hyde has appeared less likely to push the envelope in recent appearances.

Getting four strong innings from López and moving on may be a winning strategy in the short term. Whether or not Baltimore’s bullpen can handle the workload for the duration of the season is a different discussion.

DJ Stewart will get the day off, but should not be limited long term by left leg discomfort. MASN’s Roch Kubatko tweeted earlier today that Stewart could be available off the bench tonight if necessary. Stewart will be replaced again by rookie Ryan McKenna.

McKenna rejoined the club after Dillon Tate’s trip to the injured list. McKenna put together a few nice at bats and immediately earned Hyde’s trust in the outfield, but his .188 average in 16 at bats needs improvement.

McKenna will be joined in the outfield by Cedric Mullins and Austin Hays. Trey Mancini will play first base while Ryan Mountcastle serves as the designated hitter. Freddy Galvis and Pat Valaika will form the double play combination while Pedro Severino catches López.

Maikel Franco will rejoin the lineup after a day off yesterday. Franco has just three hits in his last 38 at bats. He slides down to seventh in today’s lineup.

For the Orioles

1. Cedric Mullins CF
2. Austin Hays LF
3. Trey Mancini 1B
4. Ryan Mountcastle DH
5. Pedro Severino C
6. Freddy Galvis SS
7. Maikel Franco 3B
8. Pat Valaika 2B
9. Ryan McKenna RF

Starter: RHP Jorge López