Orioles 4 - Athletics 3 (8/28/2026): Kittredge Secures Win With Clutch Relief

The Baltimore Orioles edged out the Oakland Athletics in a tight 4-3 game at Sutter Health Park. With this victory, the Orioles advanced to a record of 65-69, positioned 5th in the AL East division. The Athletics, on the other hand, dropped to 53-81, standing 4th in the AL West division.

The game kicked off under clear skies with temperatures soaring to 100 degrees. Phil Cuzzi oversaw the game from behind the plate, supported by Jonathan Parra at first base, Chad Fairchild at second, and Clint Vondrak at third. The first pitch was delivered at 6:37 PM, with a gentle breeze blowing out towards right field at 5 mph.

Orioles Take Early Control

Baltimore started strong in the second inning, putting two runs on the board and setting the pace for the evening. This early lead proved critical as the game unfolded. The Orioles were able to add another two runs later on, totaling four runs off six hits, maintaining a clean slate with no errors.

Key contributions for Baltimore came from Coby Mayo, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Dylan Beavers, each securing an RBI. Colton Cowser also made a noteworthy appearance, hitting a double in his single at-bat. Despite striking out three times, Jackson Holliday held his own defensively to keep the Orioles on track.

Brayan Young took the mound for the Orioles, delivering a solid performance over seven innings. He allowed just one run on five hits, striking out four and giving up a solo home run. Young's effort provided the foundation for the Orioles' bullpen to close out the game.

Late Push by Athletics

The Athletics remained scoreless until the seventh inning when they finally broke through with a run. They added another in the eighth, making it a closer contest but still trailing. Their offense, however, was unable to produce the tying run in the final inning.

Jonah Heim led the Athletics' scoring effort with a solo home run, his only hit in four at-bats. Zack Gelof and Lawrence Butler added RBIs to narrow the gap, but the team couldn't muster enough offense to overtake the Orioles.

Oakland's starting pitcher, Jose Lopez, pitched five innings, allowing two runs on three hits while striking out six. Brady Basso, who took the loss, pitched the ninth inning, conceding two runs and two hits, which ultimately sealed the Athletics' fate.

Closing Moments

Andrew Kittredge secured the win for the Orioles, pitching a crucial inning with two strikeouts, maintaining his ERA at 3.35. Austin Hoppe closed out the game, allowing a single run but securing the victory by striking out one in the final inning.

The Orioles' victory showcased their ability to capitalize on key moments and maintain composure under pressure. Their defensive prowess ensured they made minimal mistakes, further aiding their cause in a tightly contested game.

Despite a commendable effort from the Athletics, their record continues to reflect a challenging season. The loss highlights their struggles both offensively and defensively, although there were some positive takeaways in terms of individual performances.

Looking ahead, the Orioles will continue their road trip at Sutter Health Park, with upcoming games against the Athletics. As they strive to improve their standing in the AL East, these games present crucial opportunities.

The Athletics, meanwhile, hope to rebound and secure a win as they face off against the Orioles once again. Their upcoming series against Texas Rangers may also provide a chance to turn their season around.