Tillman's troubles in the first inning

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

July 21, 2012, 10:54am

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Chris Tillman didn't make it out of the first inning in his last start against the Minnesota Twins, allowing one earned run (seven total) and five hits in two-thirds of an inning. A Mark Reynolds error complicated Tillman's night, but the opening frame has been a challenge throughout his career. In 38 career starts, Tillman has posted an 8.12 ERA in the first inning and opponents are batting .348/.416/.585 against him. Tillman has made two starts against the Indians, allowing seven runs and 12 hits in seven innings. For the Indians: Shin-Soo Choo RF Asdrubal Cabrera SS Jason Kipnis 2B Michael Brantley CF Carlos Santana C Travis Hafner DH Johnny Damon LF Casey Kotchman 1B Jack Hannahan 3B Zach McAllister RHP McAllister made his only career start against the Orioles on June 28 at Camden Yards. He allowed two runs and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings, with six strikeouts, in a 7-2 victory. Hardy is 2-for-3 with a double, home run and two RBIs against McAllister. Betemit is 3-for-4 with two doubles and two walks. Pitcher Wei-Yin Chen and former Orioles shortstop and current infield instructor and MASN broadcaster Mike Bordick are celebrating birthdays today.