Orioles Chase Wild Card Spot in NBC Sunday Leadoff vs. Rays

The Comcast Corporation-owned NBC Sunday Leadoff will feature a critical American League matchup this weekend as the Baltimore Orioles visit the Tampa Bay Rays. The Orioles are currently riding momentum from back-to-back victories against the AL-leading Rays, positioning themselves just half a game behind the final wild card spot in the American League standings. A win in this contest would allow Baltimore to move into sole possession of that postseason position.

Manager Craig Albernaz has adjusted the lineup for the early start, giving Jackson Holliday his first opportunity to lead off this season. After a dominant July that saw him post a .921 OPS, Holliday has cooled slightly in August with a .533 OPS. He will be followed in the order by Pete Alonso, who is serving as the designated hitter after experiencing calf cramps during Saturday night’s game. Gunnar Henderson, who has reached base six times in the series thus far, will bat third.

On the mound, left-hander Trevor Rogers (7-8, 4.21 ERA) is looking to recover from a short outing in Minnesota last week. In that start, he surrendered two runs on four hits and two walks over four innings. With the team coming off an extra-innings game, Rogers’ ability to pitch deep into the contest could provide a significant boost to a tired bullpen. He will face Rays right-hander Freddy Peralta (5-9, 5.33 ERA).

The early start time allows fans to watch the remainder of the league’s afternoon slate, which includes matchups between the Yankees and Blue Jays, and the Padres and Guardians.

What to watch

• Orioles Playoff Push: Baltimore enters the game half a game back of the final AL wild card spot.
• Lineup Moves: Jackson Holliday leads off for the first time this season; Pete Alonso returns to the lineup as DH.
• Pitching Matchup: Trevor Rogers aims for length after a four-inning start in his previous outing.

Source: original release