This was a big step for Arrieta, who has struggled some this season with control, not only did he show his full potential tonight, he squashed concerns about the soreness in his hip. One of the most impressive aspects of Arrieta's game was the eight strikeouts he recorded. Arrieta could potentially develop into an impressive #2 or #3 pitcher, and improving his K/9 ratio would only increase his value as a pitcher.
As for the bats, Roberts started off the game hot with a double, and scored on a sacrifice fly by Derek Lee. Nick Markakis finally broke out of a slump with a solo shot to give some cushion to the bullpen, which they needed. Kevin Gregg closed out the game successfully, that being said, I'm still slightly putting Gregg in in the 9th inning when the score is 3-2.
Chris Tillman should go tomorrow, I'm expecting a good game from Tillman, he should have regained his movement and some of his speed, so as long as he is provided some run support, we should see good results. I think the offense is primed for a rebound, especially with Markakis' homerun tonight, hopefully the leadoff spots will be back to packing a 1-2 punch.
Down on the farm, Manny Machado is tearing up the South Atlantic League, he leads the Delmarva Shorebirds in runs (20), homeruns (5), RBI (21), walks (18), OBP (.445), and slugging (.611). Pretty impressive for an eighteen year old kid right? Machado was named the Orioles' minor league player of the month and the SAL's player of the week. If Machado keeps his production at this pace, he should see a promotion to Frederick shortly, this kid obviously has a bright future ahead of him, and he probably won't be rushed through the system. Machado is performing so well, that he is overshadowing the impressive performances of some of his teammates, like Johnathan Schoop, who makes up the other side of the left infield.
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