The Orioles were shut out 6-0 by the Rangers on July 2, 2025, as Sugano struggled and the bats went silent. Read how roster changes aim to fix the slump.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Well, you can't win 'em all. The Orioles' bats went silent in Arlington on Wednesday, ending the series against the Rangers not with a bang, but with a whimper in a 6-0 shutout loss. Before you let the holiday blues set in, remember that every team has these nights. The good news? An off day on Thursday provides a much-needed reset, and significant roster reinforcements are on the way to help right the ship for a big weekend series in Atlanta.
The Orioles managed just four hits and struck out eight times, with All-Star Ryan O'Hearn's double being one of the few offensive bright spots.
Wednesday's game was one to forget. The Rangers jumped on starter Tomoyuki Sugano, with Marcus Semien's three-run blast in the third inning doing the most damage. Corey Seager added a solo shot later, and Sugano ultimately exited after five innings, charged with five runs. On the other side, Nathan Eovaldi was simply masterful, carving up the O's lineup for five innings and allowing just two hits. The offense never found its rhythm, with Gunnar Henderson suffering a tough three-strikeout night. The final line of four total hits just wasn't going to cut it.
While the on-field product was disappointing, the front office was busy. The Birds made a flurry of moves, placing lefty Keegan Akin on the 15-day IL with shoulder inflammation and designating Matt Bowman for assignment. In their place, the team recalled the familiar face of Yennier Cano and selected the contract of fellow righty Corbin Martin from Norfolk. But the biggest news is the impending return of Tyler O'Neill. After a scorching rehab assignment where he hit .323, O'Neill is set to be activated Friday. Expect him to slot right into the DH spot, providing a much-needed jolt to the middle of the order.
With Jordan Westburg still nursing a sprained finger, Ramon Urias has been capably handling third base, drawing his fifth straight start there on Wednesday. While Westburg is reportedly hopeful for a return against Atlanta, the team may ease him back in as a DH. Urias's steady glove and professional at-bats are proving invaluable, showcasing the organizational depth that has become an Orioles trademark. The team also added some infield insurance by signing shortstop Jose Barrero to a minor league deal.
So, take a breath, Birdland. Enjoy the off day. The loss in Texas stings, but it's just one game. With Tyler O'Neill's bat rejoining the lineup and fresh arms in the bullpen, the Orioles will look to reset and come out swinging in a crucial weekend series against the Atlanta Braves. Friday can't come soon enough.
