Orioles defeat Braves 5-4 on July 5, 2025, as Jordan Westburg & Colton Cowser homer. Tyler O'Neill's return from the IL helps seal a key road victory.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when you thought the injury bug might slow them down, the Baltimore Orioles reminded everyone why they're a force to be reckoned with. In a dramatic Saturday showdown in Atlanta, two key players returned to the lineup and immediately made their presence felt, powering the Birds to a gritty 5-4 victory over the Braves. It wasn't just a win; it was a statement.
Colton Cowser's fourth-inning blast traveled 425 feet with a 100.3 mph exit velocity, a majestic shot that proved to be the game-winner.
Any concern over Jordan Westburg's finger from Friday night evaporated the moment he stepped into the box in the third inning. Westburg, looking no worse for wear, launched a two-run homer that put the O's on the board and set the tone. Not to be outdone, Colton Cowser followed up in the fourth with an absolute moonshot, his eighth of the year. The two-run blast to right-center gave the Orioles a 5-3 lead they would never relinquish. It was a classic display of the young, dynamic power that defines this Orioles offense.
For the first time since mid-May, Tyler O’Neill was back in right field, and his return from the injured list provided an immediate boost. While he didn't go yard, O'Neill looked comfortable at the plate, drawing a walk and lacing a single. His veteran presence lengthens an already dangerous lineup. To make room, the O's made some tough but necessary moves, optioning Dylan Carlson and sending Emmanuel Rivera and Matt Bowman to Norfolk. It’s a clear sign that the front office is gearing up for a serious second-half push with its core players healthy.
While the homers grabbed the headlines, the Orioles' pitching staff deserves immense credit for bending but not breaking against a potent Braves lineup. After holding off a late Atlanta rally, the call went to the bullpen for the most automatic man in baseball: Félix Bautista. 'The Mountain' was simply unhittable, mowing down the Braves in the ninth for his 17th save of the season. In 18 chances, he's been nearly perfect. When Bautista trots in from the bullpen, you can practically book the win.
This was more than just another notch in the win column. It was a display of resilience, depth, and firepower. With Westburg and O'Neill back in the fold and the bullpen anchored by the unshakeable Bautista, the Orioles look primed for the series finale tomorrow and the long summer stretch ahead. This team just keeps finding ways to win, and it's a thrilling ride to be on.
