Rays Host Orioles in AL East Division Series

The Baltimore Orioles are struggling this season, currently holding a 34-46 record and having lost their last two series, with both hitting and pitching underperforming. Tomoyuki Sugano, the Orioles' starting pitcher, has faced challenges recently with control issues and has struggled to complete five innings in his last three starts, although he has been given extra rest ahead of his June 27 start against the Tampa Bay Rays. The Rays, leading the AL East with a 46-35 record, have been impressive both offensively and defensively, boasting a strong pitching staff with a team ERA of 3.49 and leading the league in stolen bases. Ryan Pepiot will start for the Rays and has maintained a solid 3.04 ERA, having dominated the Orioles in a recent start. The Rays are coming off a three-game sweep of the Kansas City Royals, while the Orioles are trying to recover from a recent 7-0 loss to the Texas Rangers. Additionally, Orioles pitcher Kyle Bradish is progressing in his recovery from Tommy John surgery and is expected to return to game action in early August.