TAMPA, Fla. — The Baltimore Orioles took control early and never looked back, securing a 6-2 victory over the New York Yankees in a decisive spring training matchup on Tuesday night at George M. Steinbrenner Field.
First-Inning Power Surge
Baltimore wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. In the top of the first, Ryan Mountcastle crushed a three-run home run to right-center, scoring Adley Rutschman and Colton Cowser. The blast immediately put the Yankees on their heels and set the tone for the night.
Yankees starter Clarke Schmidt struggled to contain Baltimore’s bats. He lasted just 1 2/3 innings, giving up three runs on four hits while striking out four. His command wavered, and Mountcastle’s homer proved costly.
Solid Outing From Suárez
Orioles starter Albert Suárez delivered a strong performance. Over four innings, he allowed two earned runs on five hits and struck out six. His fastball command and ability to mix pitches kept New York’s lineup off balance.
The Yankees’ offense found brief life in the fourth inning. Cody Bellinger led off with a double, followed by Paul Goldschmidt’s RBI double to right field. Dominic Smith then singled, driving in Goldschmidt and cutting the deficit to 4-2. That, however, was as close as the Yankees would get.
Orioles Extend the Lead
Baltimore responded in the eighth inning. Hudson Haskin roped a double, and Vimael Machín followed with an RBI single to right, making it 6-2. The Yankees’ bullpen failed to contain the Orioles’ late-game pressure, eliminating any chance of a comeback.
Offensive Standouts
The Orioles’ offense displayed depth and efficiency. Cowser, the designated hitter, went 2-for-3 with a double and a run scored. Machín finished 2-for-4 with an RBI, and Mountcastle’s early home run set the offensive tone. Baltimore’s ability to capitalize on scoring chances proved crucial.
On the other side, the Yankees struggled to convert opportunities. Despite recording eight hits, they left six runners on base, highlighting their inefficiency at the plate.
Defensive Execution
Baltimore played a clean game defensively, committing no errors. The Yankees, however, had one miscue that contributed to Baltimore’s scoring. The Orioles executed better in a game where pitching and defense play a major role in both areas.
Looking Ahead
With the regular season approaching, the Orioles continue to build momentum. Their strong offensive execution and reliable pitching show promise for the months ahead. The Yankees, meanwhile, must address early pitching struggles and find more consistency at the plate if they hope to compete at a high level.
Spring training is winding down, and both teams will use these remaining games to fine-tune their rosters and strategies. For now, Baltimore holds the upper hand.
Born in Harrisburg, Pa., Houghton was raised in northern Pennsylvania. His father was a sports editor and reporter, so he was immersed in sports as a child. Houghton graduated from Pace University in 2000 with a journalism and digital major and a studio art minor.
