Orioles doing their homework on Rangers leading up to Game 1 of Division Series

As it turns out, maybe the opponent in the American League Division Series doesn’t really matter to the Orioles.

The front office, manager Brandon Hyde and his coaching staff could argue that point based on the roster decisions shaped by the team in the other dugout, but the players sound like they just want to play.

They gathered again this afternoon at Camden Yards, the third different start time in three days, to perform some drills and engage in the latest simulated game with a plate umpire.

No fans allowed today after a few thousand walked through Gate E yesterday and cranked up the energy level. It felt sluggish today by comparison.

Infielders caught popups and the outfielders shagged fly balls from the machine stationed at home plate. Catchers worked on their throwing. Very similar to spring training but without the extra fields.

Media access ran out as John Means was ready to throw his first pitch, but he got the ball after Grayson Rodriguez tossed two “innings” Tuesday in live batting practice and Dean Kremer logged two innings in yesterday’s simulated game.

The expectation is for Kyle Bradish to start Saturday's Game 1 of the Division Series that begins at 1:07 p.m. at Camden Yards. The identity will be revealed during Friday afternoon’s workout that includes scheduled interviews with Hyde, catcher Adley Rutschman and the starter.

The Orioles work out from 2-4 p.m., followed by the Rangers from 4-6 p.m.

The wait on the opponent ended yesterday with the Rangers eliminating the Rays in the wild card round by a combined 11-1 score. The Orioles host the first two games and fly to Dallas for Game 3 and, if necessary, Game 4.

“They’re a pretty good team,” said outfielder Anthony Santander. “Honestly, we were just waiting for either one and we just prepare ourselves to compete on Saturday. It doesn’t matter. We know they're good. But we’ll go out there Saturday and compete from the first pitch.”

Outfielder Austin Hays offered the verbal equivalent of a shoulder shrug when asked for his reaction on facing the Rangers, who split six games against the Orioles this season.

“Same as if it would have been Tampa,” he replied.

“We know what day we’re playing. We didn’t know a time yet, or an opponent, but we’re preparing the same way with the prep work we’re doing right now. Now, we’ll start digging into the data on their starters and their bullpen and what the attack plan is going to be.

“It definitely feels closer knowing who you’re playing and knowing the game time. Definitely feels like you’re a lot closer to the game itself.”

The Orioles should be less familiar with the Rangers than the Rays, a division opponent they played 13 times this summer, but that's why they have video and scouts. Their first road trip was in Texas, and the teams met again in May.

That’s it.

“It might take a little bit more of a deep dive into a couple guys, just to make sure we get a full grasp of what they’re trying to do to us offensively, defensively, stuff like that,” said outfielder Cedric Mullins. “It’s the same on their end as well. They haven’t really seen us as much.”

* In case you missed the earlier update, reliever Jorge López cleared waivers and elected free agency rather than an outright to Triple-A Norfolk.

López, who wasn’t eligible for the postseason roster, posted a 5.25 ERA in 12 innings after the Orioles claimed him from the Marlins.