The Orioles hold the best record in the American League but are still firmly entrenched in a dog fight for a division title. Baltimore will have an opportunity to place some distance between itself and the Rays later this week, but every regular season game carries weight until either team secures the AL East crown.
Both teams know what’s at stake. The Orioles would absolutely love to secure a bye through the wild card round, but the Rays will not go down without a fight.
A sprint to the finish line limits the Orioles from certain liberties like lining up the rotation or auditioning players for certain roles.