W – Chris Waters (1-0, 5.40) L – Matt Garza (8-12, 3.95) SV – Jim Johnson (9)

I guess it was a reverse lock. On paper it looked like the Orioles were headed for their 14th loss in a row, but it didn’t turn out that way. Chris Waters deserves credit for pitching a solid game. I still don’t think he has a place on this team next year, but he was a big reason why we won the game. He gave up 1 run on 2 hits and 3 walks over 5 innings, striking out 2. Cla Meredith has been quietly pitching pretty well since coming over from San Diego, I think some people are overlooking him when figuring out our bullpen for next season. He pitched 1.2 scoreless innings to bridge the gap to Alberto Castillo, who got out the only batter he faced. Danys Baez pitched a perfect 8th setting up Jim Johnson to record the save. It wasn’t easy (when is it ever?), but he got the job done. He allowed a run on 3 hits but thankfully we had a two run lead.

Nick Markakis got his 97th RBI in the first inning when he singled in Cesar Izturis, who doubled. Markakis got us going in the 4th as well when he led off with a walk. Ty Wiggington followed with a single and both would wind up scoring on RBI singles by Melvin Mora and Jeff Fiorentino. That was it, but it was enough. Matt Wieters singled in the game. Izturis also had a single and a walk.

Player of the game: Cesar Izturis (2-3, R, BB, double (12) (.249 AVG))

The O’s return home for their final three games of the season against the Toronto Blue Jays. Jason Berken (5-12, 6.51) takes his last stab at contributing to the team this season against David Purcey (1-2, 5.28).