Sunday afternoon Orioles game thread: vs Tigers, 1:10 PM

Spenser Watkins dominated through his first three starts but finally hit a wall his last time out. The rookie limited opponents to just one run in his first three starts, but stumbled through four innings of four run ball his last time out. The Marlins tagged Watkins for nine hits and struck out just once. Watkins had not allowed more than four hits in a game, and struck out seven in his previous start against the Rays.

Even the best fall down sometimes starting pitchers face adversity. Watkins will have his first opportunity to bounce back against a Detroit team that is below .500. The 28-year-old still holds a 3.10 ERA and 1.426 WHIP through 20.1 innings. He now holds a golden opportunity to transform from an aging minor leaguer to a future pitching piece in Baltimore.

Cedric Mullins will get a break today. Ryan McKenna will take his place in center field while Austin Hays leads off and plays left. Anthony Santander will play right field.

Trey Mancini will handle first base while Ryan Mountcastle serves as the designated hitter. Maikel Franco will play third, Pat Valaika is at short and Domingo Leyba slots in at second base. Austin Wynns will catch Watkins.

Can the Orioles kick off August by taking three of four games from Detroit? Let’s find out!

Orioles lineup

1. Austin Hays LF

2. Trey Mancini 1B

3. Ryan Mountcastle DH

4. Anthony Santander RF

5. Maikel Franco 3B

6. Ryan McKenna CF

7. Pat Valaika SS

8. Austin Wynns C

9. Domingo Leyba 2B

Starter: Spenser Watkins