Orioles top Braves 3-2 on July 5, 2025, as Jordan Westburg & Cedric Mullins homer. Charlie Morton gets the win in his return to Atlanta. Read the recap!
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a night of homecomings and long balls in Atlanta. The Baltimore Orioles rode the power of Jordan Westburg and Cedric Mullins, coupled with a gutsy performance from former Brave Charlie Morton, to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory over the struggling Braves. The win wasn't just another notch in the belt; it was a statement that even with a 38-49 record, this team has the firepower to compete with anyone on any given night.
Two swings were all it took. A solo shot from Jordan Westburg and a two-run bomb from Cedric Mullins provided all the offense the Orioles needed to silence the Atlanta crowd.
The Orioles' offense provided the fireworks on Friday night. Jordan Westburg continued his impressive season, launching a solo home run in the third inning to get the Birds on the board. Two innings later, Cedric Mullins delivered the decisive blow, a two-run homer that proved to be the game-winner. On the mound, Charlie Morton made his much-anticipated return to Atlanta, pitching five scoreless innings before giving up a two-run shot in the sixth. He battled through to earn the win, improving to 5-7. And as has become custom, 'The Mountain' Félix Bautista slammed the door with a perfect ninth for his 17th save, ensuring the O's started the series on the right foot.
Perhaps just as exciting as the win was the return of right fielder Tyler O’Neill. Activated from the injured list after being sidelined since mid-May with a shoulder impingement, O’Neill was immediately plugged back into the lineup. He didn't miss a beat, contributing a single and a walk in his first game back. His presence lengthens the lineup and adds a much-needed combination of power and patience. Seeing him back on the field is a huge boost for a team looking to build momentum in the second half.
With O'Neill's activation, the Orioles made some corresponding roster moves, sending third baseman Emmanuel Rivera and pitcher Matt Bowman outright to Triple-A Norfolk. These moves are part of the constant shuffle to keep the big-league roster optimized. Now, the focus shifts to Saturday’s game. The Orioles will send right-hander Dean Kremer (7-7, 4.27 ERA) to the mound, looking to secure a series win. Kremer will face an uncertain Braves pitching plan, which could involve a bullpen game or a minor league call-up, giving the O's a prime opportunity to capitalize.
One win down, one to go for a series victory. With the bats showing life, a key player back in the fold, and Dean Kremer on the hill, the Orioles are in a great position to keep the good times rolling in Atlanta. Let's see if they can build on this powerful performance and bring home another win on Saturday.
