The Oakland Athletics defeated the Baltimore Orioles 5-4 on Friday night, putting an end to the Orioles' six-game winning streak. Jacob Wilson's three hits and two RBIs, coupled with Brent Rooker's tie-breaking run, proved to be the difference-makers for the A's.
A Pitcher's Duel Turned Offensive Bout
While Mason Miller secured his 13th save, the game was far from a straightforward pitching performance. The Athletics, who have struggled with their team ERA this season, managed to hold off a late Orioles surge. Miller entered the game in a high-pressure situation, with the bases loaded in the eighth, and managed to escape the jam, striking out Heston Kjerstad.
The Orioles initially took a 3-0 lead thanks to Dylan Carlson's two-run homer and a sacrifice fly by Ramón Laureano. However, the Athletics responded with a four-run rally in the bottom of the third, highlighted by Jacob Wilson's two-run single.
Holliday's Near-Cycle Not Enough
Jackson Holliday had a strong performance for the Orioles, hitting a solo home run and a double, but ultimately fell a triple short of completing the cycle. His efforts weren't enough to propel the Orioles to victory, as they struggled to capitalize on key opportunities with runners in scoring position.
- Carlson homered in the second, Holliday homered in the fifth.
- The Athletics' bullpen held strong in the late innings.
- Orioles went 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position.
Dean Kremer, the Orioles' starting pitcher, had a tough outing, allowing five runs in 5 1/3 innings. J.P. Sears, the Athletics' starter, also gave up four runs but managed to secure the win.
The game also saw Denzel Clarke leave with an injury after crashing into the wall while making a catch. The Athletics will look to continue their winning ways, while the Orioles will aim to bounce back from this defeat.