Flashing the leather (updated)

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

October 02, 2010, 4:57pm

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Jim Johnson retired the Tigers in order in the eighth inning - with a lot of help from his friends. The Orioles put on an amazing defensive display, beginning with Cesar Izturis' diving backhanded stop and throw to retire leadoff hitter Will Rhymes. Nick Markakis followed with a diving catch near the right field line to rob Austin Jackson and again bring the crowd to its feet. Johnson struck out Alex Avila to end the inning and preserve a 2-1 lead. The teams have combined for five hits, including three by the Orioles. It's all about pitching and defense tonight. Brian Matusz certainly did his part, holding the Tigers to one run and two hits in six innings, with two walks and nine strikeouts. He left the game after 100 pitches. Matusz gave up two earned runs in his last four starts covering 19 innings, including the triceps contusion game. He allowed three earned runs or fewer in 10 of his last 11 starts. Update: Koji Uehara stranded the tying run on first base to record his 13th save. Time of game: 2 hours. The Orioles have allowed four hits or fewer in four of their last six games. Why must this season end tomorrow?