What's brewing with Orioles?

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

May 25, 2014, 3:45pm

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The Orioles are making their first trip to Miller Park in Milwaukee since losing two of three games in 2008.

Aubrey Huff had four hits in the opener and Brian Roberts batted .455 in three games, which doesn't do the Orioles any good in this series.

Nick Markakis reached base in seven of his 14 plate appearances. That could help.

David Lough stole his first base yesterday since he swiped two bags on April 24. He's 5-for-6 this season.

Lough's average is an uninspiring .163, but the Orioles are willing to wait for his bat to heat up while hoping that his speed and defense contribute to wins. He could be valuable in National League parks coming off the bench.

Lough figures to serve as a defensive replacement for Nelson Cruz in left field, now that the Orioles again have surrendered their designated hitter.

In another attempt to clear up any confusion, Lough is out of minor league options.

T.J. McFarland has replaced Troy Patton as the third left-hander in the Orioles bullpen. Brian Matusz remains the specialist, though, since left-handers are 9-for-18 with two doubles and a home run against McFarland.

Brewers starter Kyle Lohse is 3-1 with a 3.69 ERA in six career games against the Orioles, including five starts.