John Means became only the latest Baltimore Orioles’ pitcher to be chased from a start early on. As was the case on Thursday, Boston came out swinging early. And for that they were rewarded. Means’ line: 3.0 IP, 4 H, 3 R, 0 BB, 2 K.
Means gave up a solo homer to Bogaerts in the second inning, and a two-run shot from Martinez in the third. Those were the only runs that Means surrendered, however he still only stuck around for three innings. That was by design, as he was on a pitch count.
Devers smacked a three-run homer in the fifth, running it to 6-0. One inning later Chavis’ two-RBI single ran the score to 8-0. The O’s weren’t just losing, they were getting blown away.
But they did battle back. Pat Valaika and Cedric Mullins smacked solo homers in the seventh to cut the Boston lead to 8-2. Chance Sisco hit a three-run shot in the eighth. So the Birds didn’t just accept their fate lying down, but they did fall 8-5.
However the big story of the day was that the Orioles called one of their top prospects, Ryan Mountcastle up to the big leagues. Mountcastle replaced Chris Davis on the roster after he went to the 10-day IL. Mountcastle started in left field last night.
Mountcastle is of course expected to be one of the next generation’s stars in Birdland. So it was a historic night for both him and for the organization. Mountcastle drew two walks in four at-bats, and did score a run.
Mountcastle acknowledged before the game the bizarre circumstances surrounding his debut given the circumstances of the 2020 season (quote courtesy of Roch Kubatko, MASNsports):
There have been no fans. I don’t think it’s going to be the same, but at the same time I know this is the highest you can play and there should be really good competition and I’m excited to get going.
No player will ever forget his big league debut. When Mountcastle looks back at his he’ll undoubtedly remember it two-fold given the situation.
The Birds will try to snap their losing streak as the series continues tonight at Camden Yards. Alex Cobb gets the start for the O’s, and he’ll be opposed by Boston’s Martin Perez. Game time is set for just after 7:30 PM.
Birdland Crush 