Bundy done in 2019

BOSTON - A decision has been made regarding Dylan Bundy's final start in 2019.

He's already made it.

Bundy no longer is going to take the mound for the last game of the season. Manager Brandon Hyde hasn't named a Sunday replacement, but called it a "potential" bullpen game.

"That's probably going to be decided after Saturday," Hyde said. "We're probably going to piece it together."

Bundy will conclude the season with a 7-14 record, 4.79 ERA and 1.355 WHIP in 161 2/3 innings. The 30 starts are one below his 2018 total and the 29 home runs allowed are 12 fewer. He logged 10 fewer innings.

"We just thought he threw enough," Hyde said. "He's made a lot of starts this year. He's had a really good year for me. Pitched a lot better than his numbers have shown, kept us in most games. Made 30 starts and we kind of collaborated on that and ended the season for him in Toronto."

There's also something to be said for leaving on a high note.

Bundy held the Blue Jays to two runs in seven innings and allowed five earned over 17 2/3 in his last three starts. He struck out 20 batters but also walked nine.

The Orioles will check the trade market for Bundy in the offseason. He made $2.8 million this season and is due another raise in arbitration. He's eligible for free agency in 2022.

The downside to moving Bundy, if it's possible, is leaving the rotation with another hole in it. Finding dependable starters has been one of the problem areas this summer.

Left-hander John Means can place one more exclamation point on his rookie season with today's start.

Means is 11-11 with a 3.54 ERA and 1.127 WHIP in 150 innings and today marks his 27th start and 31st appearance. He's allowed two earned runs or fewer in six of his last seven outings.

The road has been more challenging for Means, who's posted a 4.81 ERA and 1.362 WHIP in 58 innings away from Camden Yards. He's gone 8-5 with a 2.74 ERA and 0.978 WHIP in 92 innings at home.

The season can't end without another start against the Red Sox. There have been four in 2019, with Means allowing six runs in 23 innings.

Sam Travis hit the only home run off him and it came in a July 19 game at Camden Yards that the Orioles won 11-2.

The Red Sox are starting Jhoulys Chacín, who's allowed eight runs and walked six batters with 18 strikeouts in 12 innings since the Red Sox signed him following his release by the Brewers.

Only two Orioles have faced Chacín. Chris Davis is 2-for-3 with a double and Aaron Brooks is 0-for-2.