The two weeks since the Orioles lost Gold Glove shortstop J.J. Hardy have felt largely the same for the team — late, home run-fueled wins and an air of invincibility at home — even if it's all occurring without their leader in the infield.
With those two weeks down and more on tap as Hardy's fractured left foot heals, it seems that if anything brings down the fortunes of the first-place Orioles (23-13), it will not be the shuffling required in Hardy's absence.
An easy transition for Platinum Glove third baseman Manny Machado to his new home at shortstop, plus the adequate play of Ryan Flaherty and Pedro Alvarez at third base and Paul Janish in reserve at shortstop, all have pleased manager Buck Showalter.