Orioles and Royals lineups, notes on O's Wild Card roster

The start of the 2023 postseason for the Orioles included the shocking news that John Means wouldn’t make the Division Series roster due to elbow soreness that followed his appearance in an intrasquad game at Camden Yards. The club didn’t share anything of that magnitude this morning, but the inclusion of Colin Selby in the bullpen came as a surprise.

Selby was chosen over Matt Bowman. Albert Suárez wasn’t going to make it after working six innings Sunday in Minnesota.

Explaining the Selby move, manager Brandon Hyde said, “We just felt Selby in a couple games he’s thrown for us showed really, really good stuff. And just from a matchup standpoint, wanted an extra right-hander in the bullpen. He’s got a 97 mph fastball and a really good slider, so we’re excited to add him.”

The Game 2 starter remains a mystery, and it appears that what happens later today might dictate the choice.

Where is Hyde on the Game 2 starter?

“I’m nowhere,” he replied.

Rookie Cade Povich is on the Wild Card roster and able to fill multiple roles. Starting is one possibility.

“Whether he’s going to start one of these games or be in relief, he’s a guy who can give us innings out of the bullpen,” Hyde said.

Corbin Burnes, today’s Game 1 starter, was chosen American League Pitcher of the Month.

As for today’s lineup, Cedric Mullins gets the start in center field against Royals left-hander Cole Ragans. James McCann is catching Burnes. Adley Rutschman is the designated hitter.

Jordan Westburg is batting second, followed by Anthony Santander and Ryan Mountcastle.

For the Orioles

Gunnar Henderson SS
Jordan Westburg 2B
Anthony Santander RF
Ryan Mountcastle 1B
Adley Rutschman DH
Colton Cowser LF
Ramón Urías 3B
Cedric Mullins CF
James McCann C

Corbin Burnes RHP

For the Royals

Michael Massey 2B
Bobby Witt Jr. SS
Vinnie Pasquantino DH
Salvador Perez C
Yuli Gurriel 1B
MJ Melendez LF
Tommy Pham RF
Kyle Isbel CF
Maikel Garcia 3B

Cole Ragans LHP