Tyler O’Neill returns as Tomoyuki Sugano looks to play stopper in Los Angeles.
I feel like I’ve used the phrase “as this Orioles pitcher looks to play stopper” a few too many times this season. Unfortunately, Baltimore’s 23 losses have provided plenty of opportunities, but few starters have been up to the task. Tomoyuki Sugano will look to change that narrative tonight.
The 35-year-old has been terrific for Baltimore. He’s saved the bullpen by working deeper into games, and he demonstrated swing-and-miss potential against the Yankees. The rookie holds a 3.00 ERA after seven starts, but his xERA sits much higher at 5.45. Can he continue to defy the odds and advanced metrics?
The Orioles will hopefully gain a spark on offense with Tyler O’Neill set to return from a stint on the IL. O’Neill will take right field, while a slumping Cedric Mullins plays center. Ramón Laureano will begin the game in left field.
Emmanuel Rivera will play third base with Coby Mayo back to Triple-A. He’ll be joined in the infield by Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holliday and Ryan Mountcastle. Ryan O’Hearn will bet he DH, and Adley Rutschman will catch Sugano.
Baltimore’s numbers with runners in scoring position have been absolutely dreadful. They will look to change their luck against righty Kyle Hendricks.
Orioles lineup:
- Cedric Mullins (L) CF
- Adley Rutschman (S) C
- Gunnar Henderson (L) SS
- Ryan Mountcastle (R) 1B
- Ryan O’Hearn (L) DH
- Tyler O’Neill (R) RF
- Jackson Holliday (L) 2B
- Ramón Laureano (R) LF
- Emmanuel Rivera (R) 3B