Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the MLB match.
A strong run of form has lifted the Tampa Bay Rays into fourth place in the American League, drawing level with the New York Yankees in total wins (46). Up next is their second series in two weeks against the Baltimore Orioles, a team that has shown increasing vulnerability with each passing game.
Baltimore Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles have arguably been the biggest letdown of the first half of the MLB season. Brandon Hyde stepped down as manager early in the campaign, but the change has brought little improvement. Despite expectations of a powerful offence, the squad’s batting has been underwhelming. They rank 23rd in batting average (23.6%) and 24th in on-base percentage (30.2%). They are also one of just eight teams with a losing home record, currently sitting at 17-21.
Tampa Bay Rays
Not long ago, the Tampa Bay Rays were considered overly dependent on Jonathan Aranda. Since then, they’ve developed into one of the most well-rounded teams in the league. In June, they recorded 15 wins in 22 games with a run differential of +35. Yandy Díaz and Junior Caminero each posted 44 or more RBIs. The infielder Junior Caminero, who joined the squad later in the season, has already hit seven home runs this month and boasts a slugging percentage of 54.1%, well above the league average of 40%.
Baltimore Orioles vs Tampa Bay Rays Prediction
Since the end of their previous series, the Baltimore Orioles have suffered back-to-back 1:2 defeats to both the New York Yankees and the Texas Rangers. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays have beaten the in-form Detroit Tigers and recorded a shutout against the Kansas City Royals. With six consecutive away wins, the visitors appear to be the more favourable pick here.
