Wed Sep 25 03:21:09 UTC 2024: ## Orioles Clinch Playoff Berth, Celebrate With Baby Bird Bath and Champagne
**BALTIMORE, MD** – The Baltimore Orioles are headed back to the playoffs for the second straight year after a thrilling victory Tuesday night over the New York Yankees.
Despite a difficult second half of the season, marred by injuries and a mid-season slump, the Orioles secured their spot thanks to a loss by the Minnesota Twins. The celebration in the Orioles clubhouse was filled with champagne, beer, and a unique touch for rookie Jackson Holliday – a “Baby’s First Clinchmas” celebration complete with a bird bath filled with ice and Baby Bird Bath Water.
“We’re so happy we’re going back,” said Orioles All-Star Anthony Santander, amidst the revelry.
Manager Brandon Hyde acknowledged the tough road back to the playoffs, highlighting the team’s resilience in the face of adversity. “It’s been a tough few months,” he said. “Every game that we win is [tough], it feels like. We just haven’t caught a whole lot of breaks in the second half.”
The Orioles, despite a September record of 9-11, are hoping the recent return of several injured players will provide a boost for the playoffs. Key players like Zach Eflin, Ramon Urias, and All-Star Jordan Westburg are back in the lineup, giving the team a sense of optimism.
While winning the division title is unlikely, the Orioles are motivated to secure home-field advantage in the wild-card round. With a four-game lead over the next two teams, they’ll have plenty to play for in the final five games of the regular season.
“Maybe we can come into the playoffs with a little more peaceful stage of mind,” said General Manager Mike Elias, reflecting on the team’s journey. “Given how we arrived there this year.”
The Orioles are back in the playoffs, and with a renewed sense of purpose, they’re ready to make another run.
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