Eflin Leads Orioles to 4-1 Victory Over Rays

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — In a commanding performance, Zach Eflin delivered seven scoreless innings against the Tampa Bay Rays, leading the Baltimore Orioles to a 4-1 victory on Friday night. This win propelled the Orioles into sole possession of first place in the American League East, a half-game ahead of the idle New York Yankees, whose game against Texas was postponed due to rain. The Orioles showcased their offensive prowess early in the game, with Colton Cowser hitting a leadoff homer in the first inning, marking his 18th of the season. The team extended their lead in the fifth inning when Ryan O’Hearn contributed a two-run single, bringing the score to 3-0. Cedric Mullins added to the tally with a homer in the sixth, solidifying Baltimore's advantage. In relief, Seranthony Domínguez pitched a flawless eighth inning, while Yennier Cano faced a challenge in the ninth, allowing a leadoff homer to Dylan Carlson before closing out the game with a combined five-hitter. The Orioles' pitching staff effectively contained the Rays, maintaining their lead throughout the contest. In roster news, the Orioles signed infielder Jean Segura to a minor league deal, assigning him to Triple-A Norfolk. Meanwhile, Baltimore's RHP Corbin Burnes is set to pursue his 13th win of the season in Saturday's matchup, while Tampa Bay plans to utilize a reliever strategy with Tyler Alexander following a potential appearance by Drew Rasmussen.