Adam Jones’ absence from the Orioles’ starting lineup for four games was noticeable on both sides of the field, and when the team’s starting center fielder finally returned for the series finale against the New York Yankees, he didn’t waste time making his presence felt.
The Orioles handled Jones with care — allowing him three days off to nurse a sore left ankle and hip and then scratching him from Tuesday’s game as a precaution because of a forecast that called for rain throughout — as the lineup managed just three runs a game without him.