In a thrilling showdown, Colton Cowser demonstrated his prowess with two magnificent home runs, marking the first of his career.
The Baltimore Orioles, fueled by the heroics of Cowser, outlasted the Boston Red Sox in an impressive 9-4 victory Thursday night, sealing a triumphant three-game sweep against their American League East Division foes.
The Orioles Showed Supremacy
The Orioles' explosive 10th inning began with Gunnar Henderson's powerful two-run homer off Isaiah Campbell, igniting a six-run barrage. The automatic runner, Jackson Holliday, crossed the plate alongside Henderson, setting the stage for Baltimore's dramatic breakthrough.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde expressed confidence in the team's offensive capabilities, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure.
He stressed that they have faith in their lineup and noted that the players have shown versatility throughout the season, demonstrating exceptional batting ability, especially in the final stages of the game.
Reflecting on his performance, Campbell took responsibility for the loss, acknowledging his failure to execute. He conceded that he simply didn't play his role and noted that against a formidable opponent like the Orioles, every pitch counts. He noted that leaving too many chances at the plate proved costly.
He also stated that this defeat rests on his shoulders, but he is determined to learn from this experience and prepare for the challenges ahead.
In his second consecutive no-hit game, 20-year-old baseball prospect Jackson Holliday scored two runs, without managing a hit in his four at-bats, after his major league debut major league debut the night before.
Meanwhile Cowser, another promising prospect for the Orioles, struggled in his brief stint in the majors last season, but came alive in this series, driving in an impressive 10 runs total.
Reflecting on his performance, Cowser highlighted the importance of his game-deciding hit, emphasizing the team's collective effort in accumulating quality at-bats, a crucial aspect in a challenging season.
We'll see you tomorrow, #Birdland pic.twitter.com/Yz8JlROMGs
- Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) April 12, 2024
The Orioles Overcame The Drawback
After their remarkable comeback from a 5-0 deficit to win 7-5 the night before, the Orioles found themselves down 2-0 early in the game against the Red Sox. However, they pulled off another comeback, capitalizing on some defensive miscues by their opponents.
Boston held a narrow 2-1 lead until the eighth inning, when Holliday reached base on an error by third baseman Pablo Reyes. With one out, Adley Rutschman connected on what appeared to be a potential double play grounder, but the Orioles challenged the play.
Upon review, Holliday was deemed safe at second base due to an error by shortstop David Hamilton during the turnaround.
Red Sox manager Alex Cora acknowledged the missed opportunity for a double play, but praised his team's overall performance in what he described as a competitive game.
He highlighted the extensive use of available players, indicating the strategic drive to utilize bullpen resources.
"The situation is complicated, but that's the game. Despite the challenge, I'm proud of the resilience our team showed. We fought until the end, but the series was very demanding. Now, it's time to look ahead and focus on what's next," exclaimed Cora.
After the double play was overturned, reliever Greg Weissert took the mound, only for Anthony Santander to connect on his first pitch over the foul pole in right field, securing a two-run home run and cutting the deficit to 3-2.
With two outs in the eighth inning, pinch hitter Connor Wong took his turn at bat and connected on a home run to tie the game on the Green Wall off Danny Coulombe.
This was Wong's first home run of the season and the first home run as a pop-up in his career. Craig Kimbrel, credited with the win, pitched a flawless ninth inning, preserving the tie.
As the Orioles' starter, Grayson Rodriguez pitched 5 2/3 innings, conceding both runs in the first inning.
On the other side, Garrett Whitlock lasted five innings for Boston, allowing Colton Cowser's first career home run, a solo home run.
