Heading into today, the Orioles were one game away from clinching their first division title since 1997. They came in leading their division by 12.5 games with a record of 90-60. It was simple, all the Orioles had to do was win one of the last two games of the series at Camden Yards. Then they would earn a ticket to the playoffs.
The Orioles won the American League East following two straight wins over the Toronto Blue Jays.
In game one of the series, the Orioles sent Wei-Yin Chen to the mound. He allowed two runs on nine hits as the lefty guided to Orioles to a 5-2 lead. Also, Ryan Flaherty helped the cause with a home run and two RBI's.
On Tuesday, the Orioles placed Ubaldo Jimenez to the hill in hopes of clinching. He has struggled this year with a 5-9 record and a 4.90 ERA. Jimenez went 5 innings allowing two runs on two hits and four walks. He also struck out six Blue Jays. The offense put up eight runs and the Orioles were able to clinch their division.
Losing multiple key players throughout the season has hurt the Orioles both offensively and defensively, but they were able to continue succeeding, even against tough opponents. Losing Manny Machado, and Matt Weiters have been the biggest blows on offense and defense. Without Chris "Crush" Davis for the rest of the regular season and possibly all the postseason, after being suspended 25-games, it is hard to predict where the Orioles will end up after the playoffs are all said and done.