The Baltimore Orioles have clinched the AL East division title, ending their drought since 2014. This victory marks their fifth division title since 1969 and their first since 2014. The Orioles had to work hard for this achievement, as the Tampa Bay Rays started the season with 13 consecutive victories and initially held a 6.5-game lead over Baltimore. However, the Orioles managed to bounce back, winning the last two games of their series against the Rays and eventually surpassing them after the All-Star break.
In addition to securing the division title, the Orioles have also shown impressive resilience throughout the season. They have gone 91 consecutive series without being swept, maintaining a strong performance in multiple game series. This consistency has undoubtedly contributed to their success in clinching the AL East.
The pivotal moment in the Orioles’ latest win came in the first inning, when Anthony Santander hit a home run off Red Sox pitcher Chris Sale, giving Baltimore a 1-0 lead. The Orioles’ pitching staff also played a crucial role in securing the victory. Reliever Travis Lakins Sr. replaced starting pitcher Dean Kremer in the sixth inning and successfully retired pinch-hitter Adam Duvall and Alex Verdugo to maintain Baltimore’s lead.
The Orioles’ offense continued to shine in the eighth inning when pinch-hitter Heston Kjerstad hit an RBI double, adding another run to their tally. Tyler Wells closed the game in the ninth, recording his first save of the season and sealing the Orioles’ division title.
On the Red Sox side, they had to deal with the absence of pitcher Chris Martin, who was placed on the 15-day injured list due to a viral infection. The Orioles, on the other hand, welcomed back first baseman Ryan Mountcastle, who had recently come off the injured list. Mountcastle made an immediate impact by drawing a walk and being hit by a pitch.
With their AL East division title secured, the Baltimore Orioles have brought an end to their six-year drought. This victory not only symbolizes their triumph in the division but also serves as a testament to their resilience and determination throughout the season. The Orioles will now look forward to the playoffs, hoping to build on their success and continue their pursuit of a pennant and World Series title.
