The Orioles are aiming to sweep the White Sox after securing a 2-0 lead in the series. This places them in a favourable position to sweep today.
Bradish Seeks a Rebound
Kyle Bradish is set to pitch for the Orioles. Prior to this season, expectations were high for Bradish, who had previously been a Top 5 Cy Young Award finisher. He had been a dark wizard on the mound, even after missing time for Tommy John surgery.
Bradish said in the spring that he felt healthier than he had in a long time. However, in two starts this season, he is 0-2 with a 6.23 ERA. He has yet to complete five innings in either outing while walking 6.23 hitters per nine innings. The velocity is back, just not the control.
The White Sox matchup could be beneficial for Bradish. It could be viewed as an extended spring training. A strong performance would help determine if his early-season struggles are a sign of concern or just early-season noise.
Burke on the Mound for White Sox
The Orioles batters are set to face Sean Burke. Burke has an ERA of 3.60 with 12 strikeouts in 10 innings. He has looked considerably better than Shane Smith this season. Last year, Burke had a 4-11 record with a 4.22 ERA and 133 strikeouts in 133.1 innings.
Burke relies on swings-and-misses with his four-seam fastball. His changeup also poses a threat. Burke could present a challenge for the Orioles lineup, which has been somewhat stymied by hard throwers this year.
Series Outlook
The Orioles are coming off a win against the White Sox yesterday. A win today would put the team back at .500. It would also give them something to feel good about heading into their next two series against the Giants and Diamondbacks.