Yard Work: Episode 13

Hey, O's fans. We're back with another episode of Yard Work. On this week's edition....

Steve Melewski is in Detroit, ready to follow the Orioles as they get set for a pivotal three-game series against the Tigers. Both teams are fighting for the playoffs and wins and losses during September can make or break the season. Needless to say, this is the biggest series of the year for the Birds, at least until the next one. Melewski checks in from the Motor City.

In injury news, fans are expecting to see slugger Chris Davis back in the lineup after missing brief action due to soreness in his left hand. Davis left Tuesday's game against the Rays and missed Wednesday's finale, but with an off day yesterday the Orioles are hoping he's good to go for tonight's series opener.

Also, pitchers Chris Tillman and Darren O'Day continue to make their way back to full health. Both are coming off of solid bullpen sessions and Tillman is scheduled to make the start on Sunday. Is he still on track? We'll update with the latest on the Orioles ace.

Tillman may be the staff's top arm, but right now there aren't many pitchers throwing better than Kevin Gausman. Gausman has won his last four decisions and hasn't allowed an earned run in his last three starts. If the Orioles are headed for a one-game wild card matchup, would Gausman be the guy to get the ball? It's an interesting debate, for sure.

Dylan Bundy is struggling a bit recently, though his regression may simply be due to fatigue. Bundy came into this season as a member of the bullpen and was thrust into the starting rotation in the summer. He's certainly met expectations, but what's the next move with the young arm?

Meanwhile, we're putting Melewski on the hot seat for a round of Buy or Sell. Will Manny Machado eclipse 200 hits for the season? How about seeing phenom Chance Sisco in an O's uniform some time next year? Find out which notions Melewski is going all-in on and which ones he'll pass on. All of that and more on this week's Yard Work.

Note: Did you know you can subscribe to the Yard Work podcast on iTunes? Listen and be sure to subscribe to get even more Orioles action and insight as the Birds aim to make it back to the postseason.

Note: The Yard Work podcast will be recorded each week; therefore, all Orioles records and statistics will be current at time of recording, but may be different when podcast is downloaded. Please don't hold that against us!