The Orioles, led by Tony Mansolino, face the Marlins on July 12, 2025, aiming for a 4th straight win amid a trade and Gary Sánchez's injury. Can they continue their surge?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It's a different feeling around Camden Yards these days, isn't it? The Baltimore Orioles, once struggling to find their footing, are playing with a renewed fire under interim manager Tony Mansolino. Tonight, they'll put that energy to the test against the Miami Marlins, aiming to lock down their fourth consecutive home victory and prove that this mid-season surge is the real deal.
The proof is in the numbers: The Orioles are 28-22 under Tony Mansolino after starting the season 15-28.
Let's be honest, the start of the 2025 season was rough. But since Tony Mansolino took the reins from Brandon Hyde, the team has been completely revitalized. A 28-22 record under the interim skipper tells the story of a club playing with more confidence and better execution. While their overall 43-50 record still shows room for improvement, the trajectory is pointing straight up. This isn't just a fluke; it's a fundamental shift in the team's performance, and it's making Orioles baseball fun to watch again.
The front office has been just as busy as the players on the field. The biggest news this week was the trade sending RHP Bryan Baker to the division-rival Rays. While it's always tough to see a player go, the return is a massive win: the No. 37 overall pick in this year's draft. That's a huge piece for the future. Meanwhile, the team is navigating a catcher crisis with Gary Sánchez hitting the IL with a knee sprain. This led to a flurry of moves, including acquiring Alex Jackson from the Yankees and giving David Bañuelos a cup of coffee in the bigs before he was optioned back to Norfolk. With RHP Colin Selby getting the call-up, it's clear management is working overtime to plug holes and keep the roster competitive.
Help could be on the horizon. Key pieces of the lineup are making progress on their return. Ryan Mountcastle has started a hitting progression for his hamstring strain and is targeting an early August return, which would be a massive boost to the lineup. Unfortunately, Jorge Mateo suffered a setback and is now looking at a September return, a tough blow for the infield's depth and speed. On the pitching side, Cody Poteet is expected to start throwing again soon after an injection for his shoulder inflammation. Getting these guys back will be crucial for a potential second-half push.
All eyes now turn to tonight's game at Oriole Park. Baltimore, favored at -166, sends Trevor Rogers to the mound against Miami's Janson Junk. The O's are looking to extend a three-game home winning streak and need guys like Cedric Mullins and the ever-consistent Ryan O'Hearn (.383 OBP!) to lead the charge. A win tonight would not only continue their home dominance but also inch them closer to that elusive .500 mark, a goal that seemed miles away just a couple of months ago.
The Orioles are at a fascinating crossroads. They're playing their best baseball of the season under new leadership, the front office is making savvy moves for both now and later, and injured stars are slowly working their way back. Tonight's game against the Marlins is more than just another date on the schedule; it's a chance to keep the momentum rolling and solidify this new identity. Grab your popcorn, O's fans—this team is getting interesting.
