Spencer Watkins got the start for the Baltimore Orioles in game 162 this afternoon, the final game of the season. It was also the second game of a twin bill against Toronto, in which the Orioles won the first game. Watkins’ line: 3.1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 2 BB, 3 K.
Toronto took an early 1-0 lead in the first inning when Jansen grounded into a force out with the bases loaded. But the Birds tied things up in the sixth on back-to-back doubles, with Kyle Stowers’ RBI-double. Once again reminding the fans of this team’s penchant to come back.
But Toronto wanted to leave their mark on this season finale also. Lopez’s two-run single in the seventh gave Toronto a 3-1 lead. Dinner would add a two-RBI single in the ninth. And the Birds fell, 5-1 in the series finale.
The O’s finished the season with 83 wins. It’s their first winning season since 2016. 31 wins more than last year. After the game ended the fans in attendance gave the team a standing ovation as they spilled out of the dugout. It was a sight to see for sure, as we enter the off season.
On that note, the O’s return to action on Saturday, February 25th vs. Minnesota at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota for the first game of Grapefruit League play. The Orioles have yet to announce a starter, but whomever he is will be opposed by Minnesota’s starter, who’s also yet to be announced. Game time is TBA.
Birdland Crush 