This time a year ago, the Orioles and Twins met in Minnesota as postseason contenders, but their four-game series at Target Field this week possesses far less intrigue.
A lot has changed since last year’s July meeting. Instead of posturing for position, they are two teams trying to dig themselves out of their deep first-half holes.
The Orioles’ fate has long been determined, but Thursday night’s series-opening 5-2 loss to the Twins at Target Field – their 10th defeat in their past 11 games — offered some positives, but also more reasons for frustration.