The Baltimore Orioles return to Camden Yards today, looking to break an eight-game losing streak at home, following a 3-4 record on their recent road trip to Milwaukee and Boston. Although the lineup against the St. Louis Cardinals has not yet been confirmed, it seems catcher Adley Rutschman will be absent. Rutschman was struck on the mask by a foul ball from Rafael Devers during yesterday’s game, leading to Maverick Handley pinch-hitting for him later on. Interim manager Tony Mansolino did not provide a status update regarding Rutschman or whether he is undergoing concussion protocol.
As the team faces the Cardinals, Ryan Mountcastle is one player to watch, boasting an impressive .500 batting average (9-for-18) on Memorial Day across four games. He notably recorded four hits last year on the holiday. Meanwhile, Gunnar Henderson is just two hits away from reaching 400, a milestone previously achieved by Orioles legends such as Manny Machado and Cal Ripken Jr. before turning 24.
On the mound, Charlie Morton will be making his first start since May 7 after appearing in relief roles. Although his season has been challenging, Morton has managed to lower his ERA to 7.68. His history against the Cardinals, however, has been less favorable, with a 4-12 record and a 5.03 ERA over 22 starts. Conversely, Erick Fedde, who will be starting for St. Louis, has been effective against the Orioles historically, allowing just one run in 23 2/3 innings across four appearances.
The Orioles have struggled in interleague games, holding a 0-5-0 record in series this season and a six-game losing streak dating back to last year. This season, they join the Rockies and White Sox as the only teams with sub-.400 records in such matchups.
The Cardinals are also a formidable opponent, currently sitting at 30-23, and have won 16 of their last 20 games, indicating that they are not the easy target they once were.
On the injury front, Gary Sánchez is back taking batting practice, while Ramón Laureano is also making strides in recovery. Additionally, outfielder Colton Cowser and infielder Jordan Westburg have begun injury rehab assignments.
While the Orioles face tough odds against a resurgent Cardinals team, their core players are showing promise, and breaking the losing streak at home could help reignite their season. With players like Mountcastle and Henderson stepping up, the team remains hopeful for a turnaround.