Fri May 23 16:40:00 UTC 2025: **Orioles Face Doubleheader Uncertainty as Red Sox Shuffle Rotation**
BOSTON – A rainout has thrown a wrench into the pitching plans for both the Baltimore Orioles and Boston Red Sox ahead of today’s doubleheader. The Red Sox have opted to move Brayan Bello up in their rotation to start one of the games, bumping Lucas Giolito.
The Orioles, meanwhile, are sticking with left-hander Cade Povich for Game 1 but remain undecided on their Game 2 starter. Initial plans had Charlie Morton slated to pitch, but the postponement has opened up possibilities. Options include sticking with Morton, using an opener before him, moving Zach Eflin to Game 2 on normal rest, or calling up a pitcher as the 27th man. Chayce McDermott is not an option, having been optioned earlier this week. Trevor Rogers, despite being on the 40-man roster, recently pitched for Triple-A Norfolk and allowed 12 earned runs (13 total) in his outing.
Manager Brandon Hyde emphasized the importance of Povich getting ahead in the count. Stats show opponents’ batting average, OBP, and slugging percentage all plummet when Povich starts with a strike.
In other news, Andrew Kittredge’s appearance Wednesday marked the 25th different pitcher used by the Orioles this season. He’s available again today.
Ryan O’Hearn’s hot hitting streak is expected to keep him in the lineup for both games, particularly with two right-handers scheduled to pitch for the Red Sox. O’Hearn leads the team in multiple offensive categories and boasts an impressive OPS in Orioles’ victories.
Ramon Urías also figures to see action. He has a career .365 average against the Red Sox.
Finally, Norfolk outfielder Dylan Beavers was scratched from the lineup due to right shoulder discomfort, and High-A Aberdeen pitcher Teddy Sharkey underwent successful elbow surgery.
First Piper 