Mike Clevinger (9 INN/2 H/3 SO/2BB) had no problem taming the Orioles today.
In a relatively easy 4-0 win, “Sunshine” was in total command from the get-go, as the young hurler continued to show his exciting development towards being another top-line pitcher for an already terrifying rotation. Clevinger even bailed out Francisco Lindor after the star shortstop booted what should have been a room service double play. Instead of allowing the Orioles to capitalize on their lone serious threat of the day, Clevinger summoned his Samson-esque power (y’know…hair) and easily dispatched Tim Beckham on a short flyout to left field that held Manny Machado at third. Then, Anthony Santander rolled over to first. No even a flinch. Frankie owes him some Boog’s Barbecue.
It was helped by a nice bit of offense as Yan Gomes, Jose Ramirez (who made two jaw-dropping web-gems as well) and Yonder Alonso all made use of Camden Yards’ hitter-friendly paradise by chipping in with solo shots.
And yet, even with a ho-hum outing for the Orioles’ Chris Tillman (6 INN/8 H/4 ER/5 SO/1 BB), today’s outing has to be viewed as a step in the right direction. With a line that would be nothing to write home about for other pitchers, he was able to keep Baltimore within striking distance; something he has not been able to do with any regularity.
But with the way Clevinger was locked in today, it just wouldn’t have mattered.
W: Mike Clevinger (2-0); L: Chris Tillman (0-4)