Orioles vs. Pirates: Can Baltimore Conquer Pittsburgh's Pitching Power?
The Baltimore Orioles are set to clash with the Pittsburgh Pirates in a three-game series, and while both teams find themselves at the bottom of their respective divisions, the series promises intriguing matchups. After a successful run against the Padres and Dodgers, the Orioles (66-77) face a Pirates (64-80) team looking to rebound from a sweep by the Brewers.
Pirates' Pitching Prowess: Skenes Steals the Show
Despite struggles on offense, the Pirates boast a pitching staff headlined by Paul Skenes, a potential Cy Young Award winner. Skenes' impressive 1.98 ERA and 0.936 WHIP make him a formidable opponent. Orioles fans craving extra-base hits might want to brace themselves for Wednesday's game when Skenes takes the mound.
Lineup Changes and Opportunities
The Pirates are shaking things up with lineup changes, including Tommy Pham's return to left field and Cam Devanney's opportunity at third base. Pittsburgh is also keen to see what Ji Hwan Bae can bring to the table with increased playing time. For the Orioles, catcher Samuel Basallo might return after a hand injury.
The Orioles will face Mike Burrows on Tuesday. Burrows last made a start for the Pirates against the Colorado Rockies at PNC Park on Aug. 23. He threw four scoreless innings, allowing two hits and a walk and posting five strikeouts
Orioles' Bullpen Bounces Back
The Orioles' bullpen stepped up in their series against the Dodgers, covering significant innings after early exits from starters. Interim manager Tony Mansolino praised their performance. This series provides an opportunity for Baltimore to continue its winning ways against a team undergoing its own adjustments.
The Pirates will start rookie right-handed pitcher Mike Burrows and he'll take on Orioles right-handed pitcher Kyle Bradish.
The Orioles are going from playing two of the best teams in the National League, winning five of six games against the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers, to a matchup up with one of the NL's worst teams.