And It Still Gets Worse ...

Wow. Who woulda thunk a 3-0 masterpiece in the 8th would descend to that mess? Gotta feel bad for the O's right now. And particularly for Matusz, who pitched a hell of a game. Couple cheap singles (one probably misplayed by Wiggy and the other a pop fly single) and the wheels come off. Should DT have gone to the bullpen right then? It's easy to say that now, but the bottom line is this ... this bullpen really stinks. I don't blame Trembley for (a) letting Matusz try to get out of it - guy's gotta learn somewhere and his pitch count was still low and (b) not relying on a bullpen that can't get anyone out. How tantalizing was it that Johnson came in and got the huge 2nd out only to blow it?

Things don't look great right now, but 2 silver linings in a season that desperately needs something positive:

1. Matusz didn't get stuck with a loss he didn't deserve.

2. Can it get any worse? It's got to get better.

Incredible Meltdown

In almost unbelievable fashion, the O's have yet again totally unraveled. Maybe Wiggy's 'un-play' on that grounder was the decisive factor that turned things? But did anyone not see this coming once Matusz was taken out?

And the season get's even more painful ...

Anything short of a tremendous come-from-behind performance will have this city enraged.

Miracle Matt/Matusz

Matusz has been unbelievable tonight. Two hits through 7 (one of them a perfect bunt by Ben Zobrist). 7 K's, only one walk. Even after a 1-6 start, that's GOTTA give the tired O's fan some hope.

Additionally, love Trembley's decision (don't think I've ever said that before) to putt Matt Wieters in the 4-slot. Guy's probably the best hitter with the most potential pop on the team. I like him even 3rd since he's a switch-hitter, but I'll take it.