Attacking the Rays' bullpen (updated twice)

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

September 05, 2010, 11:57am

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The Orioles have retaken the lead in the sixth, and the bottom third of the order spirited the comeback. Admit it, you didn't see that one coming. Craig Tatum and Cesar Izturis walked with one out against reliever Dan Wheeler. Chad Qualls replaced him and gave up Josh Bell's single to center field on an 0-2 pitch that tied the game. This was especially significant because Bell had struck out twice against starter Wade Davis, giving him 42 Ks and only two walks in 118 at-bats. Brian Roberts followed with a long single to left-center field that scored Izturis, and Bell came home on Nick Markakis' single to center. Bell crossed the plate standing on a relatively close play. We've also seen Bell slide into a catcher and knock him backward. Weird things happen to him at home plate on Sundays. Ty Wigginton walked to load the bases, and Rays manager Joe Maddon went to the mound again. Bring on the next reliever - left-hander Randy Choate. Update: Luke Scott's sacrifice fly increased the lead to 8-5. Left-hander Michael Gonzalez is coming into the game. Update II: Rocco Baldelli hit a two-run homer off Gonzalez. Orioles 8, Rays 7. Rocco Baldelli is with the Rays again?