O's on Deck

It's now time for a quick 'blogcation'

2009-07-10T15:00:00Z

Yes, I am going to attempt to add that term to the dictionary. I'm sure it won't pass the inspection to be included in the next edition by Merriam-Webster, but it basically means O's on Deck is going to take a break for a few days so I can head to Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio. I won't be posting game previews or recaps again until Monday, but please check out The Schmuck Stops Here for any urgent updates about the Orioles' minor league system. Enjoy the next few days without the blog, and we'll pick things up again Monday. Have a good weekend, everyone.

Today's game recaps -- July 9

2009-07-10T03:33:39Z

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides fell to the Charlotte Knights, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox edged the Harrisburg Senators. The Single-A Frederick Keys swept the Kinston Indians, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds lost to the West Virginia Power. The short-season Aberdeen IronBirds needed plenty of extra work to beat the Brooklyn Cyclones. The rookie-level Bluefield Orioles dropped a close game to the Danville Braves, and the rookie-level GCL Orioles blanked the GCL Twins. Norfolk Tides (AAA) Score: Charlotte Knights 7, Norfolk Tides 1 (Box score) Recap: Starting pitcher Troy Patton (1-3) allowed five runs and 10 hits in four innings, and the Tides suffered a 7-1 loss to Charlotte. Since joining Norfolk last month, the 23-year-old left-hander has a 5.47 ERA in five starts. Tides center fielder Justin Christian was 2-for-4 with a double, and second baseman Justin Turner added a double and a run scored. The two players combined for Norfolk's only three hits in the game. Norfolk shortstop Blake Davis was 0-for-3 with a fielding error. Relief pitcher Josh Perrault tossed 1 2/3 scoreless innings for the Tides. Bowie Baysox (AA) Score: Bowie Baysox 3, Harrisburg Senators 2 (Box score) Recap: Second baseman Miguel Abreu hit a solo home run with two outs in the bottom of the eighth inning to lift the Baysox to a 3-2 victory over Harrisburg at Prince George's Stadium. Bowie right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion was 2-for-4 with a two-run home run, while shortstop Brandon Pinckney and catcher Adam Donachie each added a double. Baysox starting pitcher Ryohei Tanaka gave up one run and one hit in five innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 26-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued four walks. Relief pitcher Luis Lebron (1-0) suffered a blown save for the Baysox, but he earned the win after allowing one run, one hit and two walks in one inning. Bowie relief pitcher Ryan Ouellette tossed a scoreless ninth for his second save of the season. Frederick Keys (A) Score: Frederick Keys 4, Kinston Indians 2 (Box score) Recap: First baseman Brandon Waring and catcher Caleb Joseph each hit a solo home run in the Keys' 4-2 victory over Kinston. It was Waring's 15th home run of the season, while Joseph now has seven. Frederick right fielder Robbie Widlansky was 1-for-3 with an RBI and a stolen base, and shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. also picked up an RBI with a sacrifice fly. Keys starting pitcher Sean Gleason (1-3) allowed two runs (one earned) and three hits in seven innings. The 23-year-old right-hander collected six strikeouts and walked one batter. Relief pitcher Pat Egan tossed two scoreless innings to pick up his second save since joining the Keys last month. Delmarva Shorebirds (A) Score: West Virginia Power 5, Delmarva Shorebirds 3 (Box score) Recap: Designated hitter Elvin Polanco was one of five Shorebirds players with a multi-hit game, but they lost, 5-3, to West Virginia. The 22-year-old switch-hitter was 2-for-4 with a double. Delmarva center fielder Kyle Hudson was 2-for-5 with a run scored, and first baseman Joe Mahoney collected two hits and a stolen base. Second baseman Buck Britton added two hits and a run scored, while catcher Luis Bernardo picked up a single and a double. Shorebirds starting pitcher Oliver Drake (4-6) gave up four runs and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued three walks. Aberdeen IronBirds (A) Score: Aberdeen IronBirds 1, Brooklyn Cyclones 0, 16 innings (Box score) Recap: Outfielder Arthur Bonevacia's RBI single in the top of the 16th inning lifted the IronBirds to a 1-0 victory over Brooklyn. It was Aberdeen's second consecutive win in extra innings against the Cyclones. IronBirds starting pitcher Kenny Moreland tossed seven scoreless innings, but he was long gone before the game was decided. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out six batters and allowed three hits. Moreland has a 0.36 ERA in four starts for Aberdeen. Aberdeen relief pitcher Jake Smith (1-0) only gave up one hit in six innings to collect the win. The 23-year-old left-hander collected six strikeouts and walked one batter. Relief pitcher Stephen Procner picked up his second save of the season for Aberdeen. Bluefield Orioles (Rookie) Score: Danville Braves 2, Bluefield Orioles 0 (Box score) Recap: The Orioles managed only four singles in a 2-0 loss to Danville. Bluefield starting pitcher Jesse Beal (2-2) gave up two runs and seven hits in 7 1/3 innings, but he was the tough-luck loser. The 18-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and didn't issue any walks. Orioles relief pitcher Sam Taveras recorded the final two outs. GCL Orioles (Rookie) Score: GCL Orioles 5, GCL Twins 0 (Box score) Recap: Center fielder Edwin Cintron was 3-for-5 with an RBI, a run scored and two stolen bases in the Orioles' 5-0 victory over the Twins. Orioles second baseman Bo Ford collected two doubles, an RBI and two runs scored, while catcher Xavier Lopez was 1-for-3 with two RBIs. Starting pitcher Zachary Petersime (2-0) tossed six scoreless innings for the Orioles. The 20-year-old right-hander allowed three hits, walked four batters and collected two strikeouts. Orioles reliever David Walters pitched the final three innings to pick up his first save of the season.

Today's game previews -- July 9

2009-07-09T14:29:57Z

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides play a road contest against the Charlotte Knights, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox host the Harrisburg Senators in an afternoon game at Prince George's Stadium. The Single-A Frederick Keys go for the sweep on the road against the Kinston Indians, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds face the West Virginia Power. The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds meet the Brooklyn Cyclones. The Shorebirds added infielder Buck Britton, who was playing in Aberdeen, to their roster in order to fill in for second baseman L.J. Hoes while he is on the temporary inactive list. Norfolk Tides (AAA) Record: (48-36) Opponent at Charlotte Knights (7:15 p.m.) Probable pitchers Norfolk: Troy Patton (1-2, 4.43 ERA) Charlotte: Carlos Torres (8-4, 2.30 ERA) Bowie Baysox (AA) Record: (47-39) Opponent Harrisburg Senators (12:05 p.m.) Probable pitchers Bowie: Ryohei Tanaka (0-0, 0.00 ERA) Harrisburg: Cory VanAllen (2-4, 5.97 ERA) Frederick Keys (A) Record: (6-6 in second half, 37-44 overall) Opponent at Kinston Indians (7 p.m.) Probable pitchers Frederick: Sean Gleason (0-3, 4.45 ERA) Kinston: Eric Berger (7-5, 2.13 ERA) Delmarva Shorebirds (A) Record: (6-8 in second half, 42-41 overall) Opponent at West Virginia Power (7:05 p.m.) Probable pitchers Delmarva: Oliver Drake (4-5, 3.81 ERA) West Virginia: Casey Erickson (4-3, 2.11 ERA) Aberdeen IronBirds (A) Record: (6-13) Opponent at Brooklyn Cyclones (7 p.m.) Probable pitchers Aberdeen: Kenny Moreland (3-0, 0.50 ERA) Brooklyn: Darin Gorski (0-0, 4.50 ERA)

Today's game recaps -- July 8

2009-07-09T03:08:33Z

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Charlotte Knights, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox fell to the Harrisburg Senators. The Single-A Frederick Keys topped the Kinston Indians, but the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds were beaten by the West Virginia Power. The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds edged the Brooklyn Cyclones. The rookie-level Bluefield Orioles used some late-inning heroics to knock off the Danville Braves, while the rookie-level GCL Orioles lost to the GCL Reds. Earlier today, the Orioles announced their organizational players of the month for June. Bowie's Brian Matusz was selected as the top pitcher in the Orioles' minor league system, and the Shorebirds' Ronnie Welty was picked as the top hitter. Before tonight's game, the Shorebirds placed second baseman L.J. Hoes on the temporary inactive list. A corresponding move is expected on Thursday. Norfolk Tides (AAA) Score: Norfolk Tides 5, Charlotte Knights 1 (Box score) Recap: Center fielder Joey Gathright was 4-for-5 with a double and two RBIs in the Tides' 5-1 victory over Charlotte. Norfolk starting pitcher Chris Tillman (7-5) tossed six scoreless innings. The 21-year-old right-hander gave up six hits and collected six strikeouts. He threw 61 of his 94 pitches for strikes. Tides right fielder Jeff Fiorentino also picked up four hits, and catcher Robby Hammock added a double and two runs scored. Shortstop Blake Davis was 1-for-3 with a stolen base and an RBI for Norfolk. Bowie Baysox (AA) Score: Harrisburg Senators 7, Bowie Baysox 4 (Box score) Recap: Orioles shortstop Cesar Izturis was 0-for-3 in his second injury rehabilitation start as the Baysox lost, 7-4, to Harrisburg at Prince George's Stadium. Bowie second baseman Miguel Abreu was 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored, and right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion added a double, an RBI and a run scored. Baysox starting pitcher Tim Bascom (2-2) allowed three runs and seven hits in six innings. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and didn't walk anyone. Relief pitcher Zach Clark tossed two scoreless innings for the Baysox in his first appearance since rejoining the team from the disabled list. Harrisburg third baseman Joel Guzman was 5-for-5 with three RBIs. Frederick Keys (A) Score: Frederick Keys 6, Kinston Indians 2 (Box score) Recap: First baseman Robbie Widlansky collected four hits and an RBI in the Keys' 6-2 win over Kinston. The 24-year-old utility player is batting .388 with two home runs and 23 RBIs in 31 games for Frederick since being added to the roster. Frederick shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 3-for-5 with two RBIs and a stolen base, while center fielder Matt Angle added two RBIs. Third baseman Brandon Waring, catcher Caleb Joseph and left fielder Tyler Henson each picked up two hits for the Keys. Starting pitcher Nathan Nery (3-3) gave up two runs and seven hits in five innings for Frederick, and relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa retired all nine batters he faced. Delmarva Shorebirds (A) Score: West Virginia Power 7, Delmarva Shorebirds 3 (Box score) Recap: Shortstop Greg Miclat was 2-for-4 with an RBI, a stolen base and a run scored, but the Shorebirds dropped a 7-3 decision against West Virginia. Welty added an RBI, while Delmarva left fielder Kyle Hudson and catcher Luis Bernardo each scored a run. Shorebirds starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea (5-5) gave up five runs and six hits in 4 2/3 innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued two walks. Relief pitcher Cliff Flagello retired all seven batters he faced for Delmarva. Aberdeen IronBirds (A) Score: Aberdeen IronBirds 5, Brooklyn Cyclones 4, 12 innings (Box score) Recap: The IronBirds scored a run in the top of the 12th inning to snap Brooklyn's 10-game winning streak with a 5-4 victory. It was also the Cyclones' first loss at home in 2009. Aberdeen third baseman Levi Carolus collected three more hits tonight, including the game-winning RBI single in the 12th. In his past four games, the 21-year-old infielder is hitting .611 (11-for-18) with two doubles and three RBIs. IronBirds second baseman Buck Britton was 3-for-5 with a double, two RBIs and a run scored, while center fielder Richard D'Oleo and right fielder Jason Rook each added two hits. Relief pitcher Jose Barajas (1-1) picked up the win for Aberdeen after retiring all six batters he faced, and James Brandhorst tossed a scoreless inning for his first save of the season. First baseman Tyler Townsend was 0-for-6 with two strikeouts for the IronBirds tonight. So far this season, the Orioles' third-round selection in this year's MLB draft is batting .152 with 15 strikeouts in nine games. Aberdeen starting pitcher Tyler Sexton allowed three runs (two earned) and eight hits in six innings. Bluefield Orioles (Rookie) Score: Bluefield Orioles 4, Danville Braves 3, 12 innings (Box score) Recap: Second baseman Gary Helmick hit a solo home run with two outs in the bottom of the 12th inning to send the Orioles to a 4-3 walkoff victory over Danville. Bluefield right fielder Luis Ramirez was 3-for-5 with two RBIs, and shortstop Javier Santana added two hits and a run scored. Orioles starting pitcher Justin Moore gave up two runs (one earned) and six hits in six innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 19-year-old right-hander struck out three batters and didn't walk anyone. Despite suffering a blown save, Bluefield relief pitcher Josh Dowdy (1-0) tossed four innings to earn his first professional victory. The Orioles' 38th-round selection in this year's MLB draft allowed one run and four hits. GCL Orioles (Rookie) Score: GCL Reds 6, GCL Orioles 1 (Box score) Recap: Second baseman Dennis Perez collected a double and two walks in the Orioles' 6-1 loss to the Reds. Orioles starting pitcher Jario De La Cruz (0-1) gave up three runs and five hits in six innings. The 21-year-old right-hander collected six strikeouts and walked two batters. Relief pitcher Jason Hallerman issued three walks without recording an out for the Orioles. In four appearances this season, the 21-year-old right-hander has allowed four runs and 10 walks in 1 2/3 innings. However, he hasn't given up any hits.

Today's game previews -- July 8

2009-07-08T16:25:23Z

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides face the Charlotte Knights, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox host the Harrisburg Senators at Prince George's Stadium. The Single-A Frederick Keys play the Kinston Indians, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds continue their road trip against the West Virginia Power. The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds look to snap the Brooklyn Cyclones' 10-game win streak. Orioles relief pitcher Dennis Sarfate is scheduled to pitch in an injury rehabilitation assignment for the Baysox on Saturday, according to the team. The 28-year-old right-hander is recovering from a shoulder injury, and he hasn't pitched in the major leagues since May 1. UPDATE (4:19 p.m.): The Keys just announced that Sarfate will also rehab in Frederick on Tuesday night against the Kinston Indians. The Baysox also announced that relief pitcher Chad Thall was selected as a replacement for the 2009 Eastern League All-Star Game in Trenton N.J. Thall takes the place of Baysox relief pitcher Josh Perrault, who was recently promoted to Norfolk, on the Southern Division team. The 23-year-old left-hander leads the Eastern League with 12 holds, and he is 2-2 with a 3.44 ERA in 31 appearances this season. Thall has 36 strikeouts in 36 2/3 innings for Bowie. Norfolk Tides (AAA) Record: (47-36) Opponent at Charlotte Knights (7:15 p.m.) Probable pitchers Norfolk: Chris Tillman (6-5, 2.69 ERA) Charlotte: Kelvin Jimenez (3-2, 4.56 ERA) Bowie Baysox (AA) Record: (47-38) Opponent Harrisburg Senators (7:05 p.m.) Probable pitchers Bowie: Tim Bascom (2-1, 3.60 ERA) Harrisburg: Erik Arnesen (4-2, 3.47 ERA) Frederick Keys (A) Record: (5-6 in second half, 36-44 overall) Opponent at Kinston Indians (7 p.m.) Probable pitchers Frederick: Nathan Nery (2-3, 4.48 ERA) Kinston: Russell Young (2-3, 4.50 ERA) Delmarva Shorebirds (A) Record: (6-7 in second half, 42-40 overall) Opponent at West Virginia Power (7:05 p.m.) Probable pitchers Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (5-4, 3.42 ERA) West Virginia: Brian Leach (2-0, 1.86 ERA) Aberdeen IronBirds (A) Record: (5-13) Opponent at Brooklyn Cyclones (7 p.m.) Probable pitchers Aberdeen: Tyler Sexton (1-2, 4.20 ERA) Brooklyn: Wes Wrenn (0-0, 4.00 ERA)

Today's game recaps -- July 7

2009-07-08T03:21:11Z

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Charlotte Knights, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox blanked the Harrisburg Senators. In case you missed it, here is my live coverage of Bowie's 6-0 win. Baysox starting pitcher Brian Matusz shined once again in the victory. The Single-A Frederick Keys topped the Kinston Indians, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds failed to score against the Kannapolis Intimidators. The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds were edged by the Brooklyn Cyclones. The rookie-level Bluefield Orioles lost to the Burlington Royals, and the rookie-level GCL Orioles came up short against the GCL Red Sox. The Shorebirds activated outfielder Jacob Julius from the disabled list earlier today. In order to clear a roster spot for Julius, Delmarva placed relief pitcher Andrew Barb on the DL, retroactive to July 5. Norfolk Tides (AAA) Score: Norfolk Tides 8, Charlotte Knights 4 (Box score) Recap: The Tides jumped out to a 7-0 lead after two innings, and they cruised to an 8-4 victory over Charlotte. Norfolk center fielder Justin Christian was 4-for-5 with a double and two runs scored, while third baseman Jolbert Cabrera added a three-run home run in the second. Tides first baseman Brandon Snyder collected two hits and two RBIs, and designated hitter Michael Aubrey was 2-for-3 with a walk and an RBI. Starting pitcher Jake Arrieta (2-2) allowed four runs and seven hits in 6 1/3 innings for the Tides. The 23-year-old right-hander collected eight strikeouts and issued one walk. Arrieta was removed after giving up two home runs in the seventh. Relief pitcher Josh Perrault struck out the side in the ninth inning during his debut with Norfolk after being called up earlier in the day. Bowie Baysox (AA) Score: Bowie Baysox 6, Harrisburg Senators 0 (Box score) Recap: As you're aware by now, Matusz (4-0) dominated Harrisburg in a 6-0 win at Prince George's Stadium. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out 11 batters, including six in the final three innings, and he only allowed one hit. Matusz didn't walk anyone, throwing 73 of his 98 pitches for strikes. "It's the farthest I've gone. I minimized pitches," Matusz said. "It's the first game I've gone this year without walking a guy, and that's what I'm most happy about today." "All four pitches worked really well today. I could throw them all at any given time." Matusz added. In his first four starts with the Baysox, Matusz only allowed two runs (one earned) and 11 hits in 26 1/3 innings. The 2008 first-round draft pick lowered his ERA to 0.34 since joining Bowie. Overall, Matusz is 8-2 with a 1.65 ERA in 15 starts between the Baysox and Keys this season. Although he was close to 100 pitches in the outing, Baysox pitching coach Larry McCall knows Matusz could have finished the game if needed. "If he would have been in the big leagues, he would have definitely went back out there for the ninth," McCall said. "But this is Double-A. You don't want to go back out there and give up a run in the ninth inning." Orioles shortstop Cesar Izturis started his injury rehabilitation assignment with the Baysox tonight. The 29-year-old infielder was 2-for-3 with a stolen base and two runs scored, and he is still on track to be activated from the disabled list on Friday. "Today was a good day," Izturis said. "I did everything a rehab guy is supposed to do -- stolen base, scored [two runs] and turned a double play." Baysox left fielder Jonathan Tucker was 2-for-5 with a double and two RBIs, while first baseman Eric Crozier added two doubles, an RBI and a run scored. Designated hitter Guillermo Rodriguez and second baseman Miguel Abreu each collected two hits for Bowie. Frederick Keys (A) Score: Frederick Keys 11, Kinston Indians 5 (Box score) Recap: First baseman Robbie Widlansky was 2-for-4 with two home runs, three RBIs and three runs scored in the Keys' 11-5 win over Kinston. Frederick second baseman Ryan Adams was 3-for-5 with three RBIs and a run scored, but he committed three throwing errors. In case you forgot, the 22-year-old infielder made 52 defensive miscues with the Shorebirds last season. Keys center fielder Matt Angle collected two hits, two RBIs, two runs scored and a stolen base, while right fielder Billy Rowell added a single, two RBIs and a run scored. Relief pitcher Joe Esposito (1-2) earned the victory for Frederick after tossing 2 2/3 scoreless innings. Keys starting pitcher Pedro Beato gave up three runs (two earned) and five hits in 3 1/3 innings. Catcher Caleb Joseph was 2-for-4 with a double for the Keys, and left fielder Tyler Henson had two hits, including a triple, and two runs scored. Frederick third baseman Brandon Waring also picked up two hits. Delmarva Shorebirds (A) Score: Kannapolis Intimidators 9, Delmarva Shorebirds 0 (Box score) Recap: The Shorebirds managed only two hits in a 9-0 loss to Kannapolis. Delmarva center fielder Xavier Avery was 1-for-3 with a double, and shortstop Rodolfo Cardona added a single, a stolen base and two walks. Shorebirds starting pitcher Cole McCurry (3-7) allowed six runs (four earned) and four hits in 2 2/3 innings. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out two batters and issued two walks. Aberdeen IronBirds (A) Score: Brooklyn Cyclones 3, Aberdeen IronBirds 2 (Box score) Recap: Designated hitter Levi Carolus collected two hits, including a double, but the IronBirds suffered a 3-2 loss to Brooklyn. Aberdeen shortstop Garabez Rosa was 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI, and right fielder Arthur Bonevacia added a single and an RBI. IronBirds starting pitcher Patrick Kantakevich (0-2) gave up three runs and seven hits in five innings. The 22-year-old right-hander collected four strikeouts and walked two batters. First baseman Tyler Townsend was 1-for-4 with three strikeouts, but he did pick up his first stolen base at the professional level. Bluefield Orioles (Rookie) Score: Burlington Royals 2, Bluefield Orioles 1 (Box score) Recap: Third baseman Corey Thomas was 1-for-4 with a double and a run scored in the Orioles' 2-1 loss to Burlington. Bluefield first baseman Mike Flacco and left fielder Larry Rivera each added a hit, while second baseman Omar Casamayor picked up a stolen base. Orioles starting pitcher Jorge Almanzar (1-1) allowed two runs (one earned), one hit and three walks in four innings. Relief pitcher Justin Anderson tossed three scoreless innings for Bluefield. GCL Orioles (Rookie) Score: GCL Red Sox 8, GCL Orioles 6 (Box score) Recap: Center fielder Grolmann Gonzalez collected a triple and three RBIs, but the Orioles fell, 8-6, to the Red Sox. Orioles right fielder Jaynnertt Melenciano was 3-for-5 with a double, an RBI and a run scored, while first baseman David Anderson added two hits and two runs scored. Starting pitcher Eiri Ramirez (1-2) allowed five runs and six hits in 1 1/3 innings for the Orioles. Designated hitter David Rivera and shortstop Moises Ciriaco each picked up two hits for the Orioles.

Live: Baysox vs. Harrisburg -- Bowie earns shutout

2009-07-08T01:25:43Z

It's official. Baysox starting pitcher Brian Matusz was removed from the game after pitching eight scoreless innings. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out 11 batters and allowed only one hit. He threw 73 of his 98 pitches for strikes, but didn't get a chance for the complete game. Relief pitcher Ryan Ouellette came in and pitched a scoreless ninth for the Baysox in a 6-0 victory over the Senators. Orioles shortstop Cesar Izturis was 2-for-3 with a stolen base and two runs scored in a rehabilitation start for the Baysox. I'm heading down to the clubhouse now to talk to Matusz and other players, so be sure to check out O's on Deck later tonight for full game recaps from all of the affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system.

Live: Baysox vs. Harrisburg -- Matusz keeps going

2009-07-08T01:20:18Z

Orioles shortstop Cesar Izturis exited the game after the sixth inning. The veteran major leaguer was replaced by Baysox shortstop Robert Valido to start the top of the seventh. Izturis was 2-for-3 with two singles, two runs scored and a stolen base. He was also hit by a pitch in his final at-bat. Baysox starting pitcher Brian Matusz picked up two more strikeouts while retiring the side in order again in the top of the seventh. Despite a two-out walk to designated hitter Guillermo Rodriguez, the Baysox went quietly in the bottom of the seventh. After Senators right fielder Joel Guzman reached on a two-base error by Baysox first baseman Eric Crozier, Matusz struck out the next two batters. Through eight innings, Matusz has allowed one hit. The 22-year-old left-hander has thrown 73 of his 98 pitches for strikes. He has 11 strikeouts, including two in each of the past three innings. No one is warming up in Bowie's bullpen, so expect Matusz to come back out for the ninth. INSTANT UPDATE: As soon as I published that entry, Baysox relief pitcher Ryan Ouellette started warming in the bullpen, so it looks like Matusz's night might be over.

Live: Baysox vs. Harrisburg -- Bowie increases lead

2009-07-08T00:55:45Z

The Baysox added to their lead in the next two innings. With one out in the bottom of the fifth, Bowie first baseman Eric Crozier hit a double into the left-center field gap. Third baseman Mike Costanzo collected an RBI single for the Baysox, making it 4-0 after five innings. Different inning, same story for Baysox starting pitcher Brian Matusz. The 22-year-old left-hander retired the side in order again in the top of the sixth. Matusz threw nine of his 11 pitches for strikes in the inning. So far tonight, he has only thrown more than three balls in one inning -- the fifth, when he threw six balls in 13 pitches. After Baysox designated hitter Guillermo Rodriguez hit a single and stole second base, Orioles shortstop Cesar Izturis was hit by a pitch with one out in the bottom of the sixth. Left fielder Jonathan Tucker followed with an RBI single for the Baysox, and Crozier added a ground-rule double to right field, making it 6-0 after six innings.

Live: Baysox vs. Harrisburg -- Matusz in control

2009-07-08T00:20:44Z

Senators second baseman Michael Martinez was the first base runner allowed by Baysox starting pitcher Brian Matusz on an infield single to lead off the top of the fourth inning. Martinez, however, was quickly erased when Harrisburg left fielder Michael Daniel hit into a 4-6-3 double play. Matusz struck out Senators shortstop Ian Desmond to end the top of the fourth. Baysox third baseman Mike Costanzo led off the bottom of the fourth with a walk. Second baseman Miguel Abreu doubled down the left field line for Bowie, and Costanzo scored on a wild pitch. Right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion hit a sacrifice fly to left field to give the Baysox a 3-0 lead, and Bowie catcher Adam Donachie walked with one out. After center fielder Danny Figueroa singled to put runners on first and second base for the Baysox, designated hitter Guillermo Rodriguez flied out to right field and shortstop Cesar Izturis hit a comebacker to the pitcher to end the bottom of the fourth. Matusz mowed through the Harrisburg hitters again in the bottom of the fifth. Senators right fielder Joel Guzman flied out to right field, third baseman Ofilio Castro grounded out to shortstop and designated hitter Matt Whitney struck out looking. Through five innings, Matusz has thrown 45 of his 58 pitches for strikes. The Baysox are holding onto a 3-0 lead heading into the bottom of the fifth.

Live: Baysox vs. Harrisburg -- Nine up, nine down

2009-07-07T23:50:10Z

Through three innings, Baysox starting pitcher Brian Matusz has retired all nine Harrisburg hitters. The 22-year-old left-hander has three strikeouts, and he has thrown 28 of his 35 pitches for strikes. Matusz just struck out Senators center fielder Edgardo Baez looking with two nasty curveballs to end the top of the third. Baysox center fielder Danny Figueroa was robbed of a base hit by Senators second baseman Michael Martinez to lead off the bottom of the third. Martinez ranged far up the middle to make a diving play and spun to throw to first base to retire Figueroa. After Bowie designated hitter Guillermo Rodriguez singled with one out and moved to second base on a wild pitch, Orioles shortstop Cesar Izturis collected his second single of the game. Rodriguez, however, was thrown out at home plate by Baez for the second out. Left fielder Jonathan Tucker knocked in Izturis with an RBI double to give the Baysox a 1-0 lead. Bowie first baseman Eric Crozier grounded out to shortstop to end the inning. After three full innings, the Baysox are on top, 1-0.

Live: Baysox vs. Harrisburg -- Matusz starts strong

2009-07-07T23:22:11Z

Baysox starting pitcher Brian Matusz retired the side in order in the top of the first inning. The 22-year-old left-hander threw nine of his 11 pitches for strikes. Senators second baseman Michael Martinez flied out to center field to start the game, and Matusz struck out Harrisburg left fielder Michael Daniel for the second out. Senators shortstop Ian Desmond grounded out to third base to end the top of the first. Orioles shortstop Cesar Izturis hit a single to left-center field to kick off the bottom of the first for the Baysox. After Bowie left fielder Jonathan Tucker struck out, Izturis successfully stole second base. The threat ended there, however, as Baysox first baseman Eric Crozier lined out to center field and third baseman Mike Costanzo flied out to left field to end the inning. At the end of one inning, there is no score.

Live: Baysox vs. Harrisburg -- Notes and lineups

2009-07-07T22:27:40Z

Good evening, everyone. I'm sitting here in a packed press box at Prince George's Stadium with several members of the media to watch Double-A Bowie Baysox starting pitcher Brian Matusz against the Harrisburg Senators. Orioles shortstop Cesar Izturis is making his first injury rehabilitation assignment for the Baysox, and Washington Nationals left-hander Matt Chico is starting for the Senators. I'm told that Nationals first baseman Dmitri Young is also with the Senators, but he isn't in the starting lineup. A short plug for the Baysox -- the team published its first podcast today. It contains pitching matchups and upcoming events at the ballpark. Some game notes, courtesy of the two teams: • After going 20-9 in June, the Senators have lost five of the first seven games in July. • Baysox outfielder Danny Figueroa is batting .455 against Harrisburg so far this season, while shortstop Robert Valido and outfielder Jonathan Tucker both hold a .409 batting average against the Senators. • Bowie relief pitcher Luis Lebron allowed back-to-back home runs to Altoona Curve first baseman Miles Durham and shortstop Brian Friday during yesterday's game. It was the first time since June 4, 2006 that the Baysox allowed back-to-back home runs. Here are the starting lineups for tonight's game: HARRISBURG (35-47) Michael Martinez 2B Michael Daniel LF Ian Desmond SS Joel Guzman RF Ofilio Castro 3B Matt Whitney DH Bill Rhinehart 1B Luke Montz C Edgardo Baez CF Matt Chico LHP BOWIE (46-38) Cesar Izturis SS Jonathan Tucker LF Eric Crozier 1B Michael Costanzo 3B Miguel Abreu 2B Ambiorix Concepcion RF Adam Donachie C Daniel Figueroa CF Guillermo Rodriguez DH Brian Matusz LHP

Today's game previews -- July 7

2009-07-07T17:45:06Z

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides travel to play the Charlotte Knights, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox return to Prince George's Stadium to face the Harrisburg Senators. The Single-A Frederick Keys continue their road trip against the Kinston Indians, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds meet the Kannapolis Intimidators. The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds play against the Brooklyn Cyclones. I'll be heading to Bowie to provide live game updates as Brian Matusz pitches for the Baysox, so be sure to check O's on Deck later tonight. Earlier today, the Orioles announced that the injury rehabilitation assignment for shortstop Blake Davis with the IronBirds ended, and he returned to the Tides. The Baysox also announced several rosters moves from the past two days. Yesterday, Bowie relief pitcher Wilfrido Perez was placed on the disabled list, retroactive to July 5. It's his second trip to the DL so far this season. Perez is 2-0 with a 1.37 ERA in 24 appearances for the Baysox this year. Today, relief pitcher Josh Perrault was promoted to Norfolk from the Baysox, and infielder Brandon Pinckney heads back to Bowie from the Tides. Starting pitcher Zach Clark, who was on an injury rehabilitation assignment with the GCL Orioles, was activated from the disabled list. He rejoins the Baysox after making 10 starts for the team last season. Finally, Orioles shortstop Cesar Izturis joins the Baysox for an injury rehabilitation assignment beginning tonight. Norfolk Tides (AAA) Record: (46-36) Opponent at Charlotte Knights (7:15 p.m.) Probable pitchers Norfolk: Jake Arrieta (1-2, 2.92 ERA) Charlotte: Jeffrey Marquez (1-6, 9.09 ERA) Bowie Baysox (AA) Record: (46-38) Opponent Harrisburg Senators (7:05 p.m.) Probable pitchers Bowie: Brian Matusz (3-0, 0.49 ERA) Harrisburg: Matt Chico (0-1, 3.86 ERA) Frederick Keys (A) Record: (4-6 in second half, 35-44 overall) Opponent at Kinston Indians (7 p.m.) Probable pitchers Frederick: Pedro Beato (4-5, 4.80 ERA) Kinston: Mike McGuire (0-0, 4.50 ERA) Delmarva Shorebirds (A) Record: (6-6 in second half, 42-39 overall) Opponent at Kannapolis Intimidators (7:05 p.m.) Probable pitchers Delmarva: Cole McCurry (3-6, 3.42 ERA) Kannapolis: Charles Leesman (6-4, 2.78 ERA) Aberdeen IronBirds (A) Record: (5-12) Opponent at Brooklyn Cyclones (7 p.m.) Probable pitchers Aberdeen: Patrick Kantakevich (0-1, 6.10 ERA) Brooklyn: Mark Cohoon (3-0, 1.35 ERA)

Today's game recaps -- July 6

2009-07-07T03:25:22Z

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides fell to the Gwinnett Braves, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox were pounded by the Altoona Curve. The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds topped the Kannapolis Intimidators, while the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds lost to the Oneonta Tigers. The rookie-level Bluefield Orioles swept a doubleheader from the Burlington Royals, and the GCL Orioles beat the GCL Rays. The Single-A Frederick Keys were idle. Speaking of the Keys, they activated relief pitcher Brett Bordes from the disabled list yesterday. Norfolk Tides (AAA) Score: Gwinnett Braves 6, Norfolk Tides 5 (Box score) Recap: The Tides lost an early five-run lead in a 6-5 loss to Gwinnett. Norfolk third baseman Jolbert Cabrera was 2-for-5 with a home run and four RBIs, while second baseman Justin Turner added three hits, a stolen base and a run scored. Tides designated hitter Michael Aubrey collected two hits, including a double, and right fielder Jeff Fiorentino was 1-for-3 with two walks and an RBI. Starting pitcher David Pauley allowed four runs (one earned) and six hits in 5 2/3 innings for the Tides, but he didn't factor in the decision. Norfolk relief pitcher Alberto Castillo (1-1) gave up one run, one hit and three walks in 1 1/3 innings. Bowie Baysox (AA) Score: Altoona Curve 12, Bowie Baysox 3 (Box score) Recap: Shortstop Robert Valido was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored, but the Baysox were routed, 12-3, by Altoona. Bowie right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion was 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. The 27-year-old outfielder also pitched an inning, allowing three runs and three hits. Baysox starting pitcher John Mariotti (2-6) gave up four runs and five hits in five innings. The 25-year-old right-hander struggled with his command, walking five batters in the game. Relief pitchers Jim Hoey and Luis Lebron each turned in a poor outing for the Baysox. Hoey gave up two runs and two hits in 1 1/3 innings, while Lebron allowed three runs and two hits in two-thirds of an inning. Delmarva Shorebirds (A) Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 5, Kannapolis Intimidators 1 (Box score) Recap: Designated hitter Joe Mahoney was 2-for-4 with two runs scored in the Shorebirds' 5-1 victory over Kannapolis. Delmarva second baseman Rodolfo Cardona was 1-for-2 with two RBIs and a run scored, while left fielder Brian Conley added a single, two walks and an RBI. Shorebirds starting pitcher Nathan Moreau (2-2) gave up one run and five hits in 5 2/3 innings. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out three batters and issued one walk. Shortstop Greg Miclat and right fielder Ronnie Welty each collected an RBI for the Shorebirds. Aberdeen IronBirds (A) Score: Oneonta Tigers 5, Aberdeen IronBirds 4 (Box score) Recap: Designated hitter Levi Carolus was 4-for-4 with a triple, two RBIs, two stolen bases and a run scored, but the IronBirds suffered a 5-4 loss to Oneonta. Aberdeen second baseman Michael Mooney was 2-for-4 with a double, and third baseman Tyler Kelly and catcher Brian Ward each collected an RBI. IronBirds starting pitcher Brandon Erbe allowed three runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings. The 21-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued one walk. Relief pitcher Stephen Procner (0-1) picked up the loss after giving up two runs, two hits and two walks in 2 1/3 innings for Aberdeen. Bluefield Orioles (Rookie) Game 1 score: Bluefield Orioles 3, Burlington Royals 1, 7 innings (Box score) Game 1 recap: Starting pitcher Bobby Bundy (1-2) tossed a complete game to lead the Orioles to a 3-1 win over Burlington in the first game of the doubleheader. The 19-year-old right-hander allowed one run and two hits in seven innings for the Orioles, and he struck out five batters in the victory. Bluefield shortstop Gary Helmick was 2-for-3 with two stolen bases, and first baseman Corey Thomas was 1-for-2 with a walk and two runs scored. Orioles third baseman Mike Flacco hit a double in the bottom of the fifth inning. Game 2 score: Bluefield Orioles 5, Burlington Royals 0, 7 innings (Box score) Game 2 recap: Designated hitter Joel Polanco was 2-for-3 with two doubles, three RBIs and a run scored in the Orioles' 5-0 victory over Burlington in the nightcap. Thomas also added two hits and two runs scored for Bluefield, and Flacco was 2-for-3 with a triple, an RBI and a run scored. Orioles catcher Dashenko Ricardo added an RBI. Starting pitcher Robert Holloway struck out nine batters, and he allowed only three hits in six scoreless innings for the Orioles. GCL Orioles (Rookie) Score: GCL Orioles 6, GCL Rays 4 (Box score) Recap: Starting pitcher Angel Cespedes gave up one run and four hits in eight innings, and the Orioles beat the Rays, 6-4. The 19-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts and walked two batters. Orioles third baseman Anyi Tejeda collected a double and two RBIs, and first baseman David Anderson was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored. Center fielder Grolmann Gonzalez was 2-for-3 with a triple, an RBI and a run scored for the Orioles, while catcher David Calderon added an RBI and two runs scored. Relief pitcher Christopher Schmitt tossed a scoreless inning to pick up his first save of the season for the Orioles. The 22-year-old right-hander hasn't allowed any hits in six innings so far in 2009.