The risk factor (O's win 3-2)

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

July 23, 2011, 5:19pm

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Jim Johnson threw seven pitches in a scoreless seventh inning. Koji Uehara threw nine pitches in a perfect eighth, getting a fly ball, pop up and strikeout. The baton is being passed again in a one-run game. Kevin Gregg is warming in the bullpen. Manager Buck Showalter will go with his closer, one night after Gregg served up Vernon Wells' grand slam. Gregg has allowed runs in four of his last five outings, though the four last night were unearned after Derrek Lee's error. Let's see how it turns out. Instant update: It turned out just fine. A little tense, but fine. Gregg retired the first two batters on ground balls, gave up Alberto Callaspo's double to put the potential tying run in scoring position and struck out Howie Kendrick after falling behind, 3-0, and running the count full to seal a 3-2 victory. J.J. Hardy had his first three-hit game since June 14. Tonight's attendance: 20,311