The Baltimore Orioles have managed to keep themselves alive, but it’s still a long shot they make the postseason. The Orioles find themselves four games back with 17 left to play. Their schedule is also very tough with the exception of the Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox. They have to play the New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and Toronto Blue Jays. It’s been a great run for the Orioles, but it does look like it’s at his end.
Baltimore Orioles Postseason Hopes Fading But The Future Is Bright
The Mariners have lost three straight games, but their schedule is extremely favorable down the stretch. They finish up with the Angels tonight, then the A’s, Royals, and Rangers. They are trying to end their postseason drought and maintain the four game lead on the Orioles. The Rays and Blue Jays have created some separation with the top two wild card spots. Currently, the Orioles only have a one percent chance to make the playoffs.
At 76-69, the Orioles are still projected to finish over .500 with 83 wins. This is a huge accomplishment considering the low expectations entering the season. This success is due to their young talent in Adley Rutschman, Kyle Stowers, and Gunnar Henderson.
Rutshcman was as good as advertised, if not better. He hit 11 homers in just over 400 plate appearances with an OPS of .810. That is very solid for his first year in the big leagues. His defense has also been a plus and has benefited the O’s pitching staff. Stowers only got 57 plate appearances, but he made his one home run count that tied a game in the ninth inning. He appears likely to play a big role next season. Henderson is already flashing in a huge way with a .328 batting average and OPS of .945 and a WAR near one in just 17 games. He also has two home runs with a wRC+ of 166. These three players will be massive in the O’s continued rebuild.
They got those guys big league experience that’s invaluable for next season. The O’s just need to fix their rotation and add one or two bats in order to contend. If they do this they should be in a strong position to compete for the postseason.
The Orioles finished last or fourth in the division for the last five seasons, with that fourth place finish in the abbreviated 2020 campaign. The Orioles organization, players, fans, and the city should be proud of this year.