As the trade deadline looms, a buyer and seller face off for a three-game set in Miami.
Both Baltimore and Miami are expected to be active participants at the trade deadline, but the the two clubs will reach the end of July under very different circumstances. The Orioles will look to improve a team already capable of winning its division, while the Marlins appear destined to enter some form of “sell mode.”
The Orioles could use another bullpen piece, and old friend Tanner Scott fits the mold. Chaz Chisholm Jr. and/or Josh Bell could be on the move, but the Birds are likely set on the offensive side of the ball.
The players cannot control any potential front office moves. Instead, both clubs will focus on a three-game set in Miami. The Orioles will look to hold pace in the AL East, while the Marlins attempt to climb out of the lowest spot in the National League.
Game 1: Tuesday, July 23, 6:40 pm., MASN
RHP Albert Suárez (5-3, 2.82 ERA) vs. TBA
Albert Suárez managed to outlast Cole Irvin and appears to hold the upper hand over Cade Povich in the backend of the starting rotation. Many expect Baltimore to acquire at least one starter before the end of the month, so every outing marks an opportunity for Suárez to prove he belongs.
Súarez has ebbed and flowed after returning to the big leagues this season. He delivered quality starts against the Athletics and Rangers, but allowed four runs over five innings in his final start of the first half against the Cubs.
The Marlins had yet to announce a starting pitcher or a roster move prior to the time of this writing.
Game 2: Wednesday, July 24, 6:40 p.m., MASN
TBA vs. RHP Edward Cabrera (1-3, 7.36 ERA)
Baltimore did not officially announce starters for the final two games before Monday evening. The Orioles could utilize a four-man rotation with All-Star starter Corbin Burnes making the appearance on regular rest. Burnes limited Texas to only two hits and one run in his first start of the second half.
The Orioles optioned Povich before the break to provide the rookie a “reset.” Baltimore is expected to recall the lefty soon, but he’s currently listed as today’s probable starter for the Norfolk Tides.
Edward Cabrera’s control issues have prevented the righty from working deep into games. He walked five batters in only 4.2 innings his last time out, and his 1.67 WHIP fits with his 7.36 ERA.
The Marlins bullpen ranks in the middle of the pack with a 3.88 ERA.
Game 3: Thursday, July 25, 12:10 p.m., MASN
TBA vs. RHP Roddery Muńoz (1-5, 5.14 ERA)
Even if the Orioles turn to Burnes on Wednesday, they could still provide Grayson Rodriguez an extra day of rest. Burnes is a bonafide veteran and a free agent to be, while Rodriguez appears poised to blow by the 122 IP from his rookie season. Baltimore could stay on turn, or the club could get creative.
Burnes will pitch Thursday if he does not start Game 2.
Roddery Muños is a 24-year-old rookie from Santo Domingo. He holds a 1-5 record, 5.14 ERA and 1.39 WHIP over 56 innings this season.