Detroit @ Baltimore preview
Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Last Meeting ( Aug 19, 2012 ) Baltimore 7, Detroit 5
The Baltimore Orioles have regained some momentum, and they have a chance to build on it with the suddenly slumping Detroit Tigers heading to town to open a three-game series on Friday. The Orioles have won seven of 10 since a six-game slide earlier this month, and they claimed three of four from geographic rival Washington, culminating with a 2-0 win Thursday.
The Tigers' dangerous lineup was neutralized by Pittsburgh, as Detroit scored a total of three runs while losing its past three games - two in 11-inning shutouts. Baltimore will look to right-hander Miguel Gonzalez to keep the Tigers on their heels. Gonzalez lost his only previous start against Detroit, allowing three runs in 5 2/3 innings last season.
TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, Fox Sports Detroit, MASN 2 (Baltimore), MLB Network
PITCHING MATCHUP: Tigers RH Max Scherzer (7-0, 3.42 ERA) vs. Orioles RH Miguel Gonzalez (2-2, 3.94)
Scherzer has been sensational while recording two straight quality starts. He has allowed two runs on five hits over 14 innings in consecutive wins, and has fanned at least six batters in each of his 10 starts. Scherzer is 2-1 with a 4.68 ERA in four starts against the Orioles.
Gonzalez doesn't have a win since April 23, but he has pitched well in his two outings since coming back from a stint on the disabled list because of a blister on his throwing hand. He held Toronto to one run over 5 2/3 innings his last time out, compiling a season-high seven strikeouts.
WALK-OFFS
1. Tigers OF Torii Hunter will miss Friday and Saturday's games to attend his son's high school graduation.
2. Orioles 1B Chris Davis, who went 0-for-3 Thursday to snap an eight-game hitting streak, is 4-for-11 against Scherzer. He is of four Baltimore players hitting over .350 against the right-hander.
3. Baltimore rookie 3B Manny Machado his hit safely in five straight games and nine of his last 10. He leads the majors with 25 doubles.
PREDICTION: Tigers 4, Orioles 2