Buck Showalter’s Orioles Looking to Maintain Momentum After Strong 2010 Finish

The Orioles have been the Red Sox’ punching bags over the years, as well as that of many other teams. The sense of optimism in Baltimore’s camp has made it seem as if that could come to an end.

The O’s may still be a trendy pick to finish last, but Baltimore has reason to feel better about itself. The new-look Orioles, who blossomed under Buck Showalter the last two months of the 2010 season, have added plenty of muscle to their lineup in Vladimir Guerrero, Derrek Lee and Mark Reynolds, and they expect a handful of young pitchers to make the leap.

One of those pitchers, Brad Bergesen, will be on the mound opposite Red Sox starter Alfredo Aceves.

Aceves remains one of the more interesting pitchers in camp, a candidate to help the bullpen or to serve as that first option as a spot start if necessary. He will be followed by as many as five other pitchers, one of whom — Dennys Reyes — is making his debut with the Red Sox.

As Saturday is a split-squad day, the Red Sox will also face the Marlins, with Anibal Sanchez and Daisuke Matsuzaka as the probable starters.

When and Where

Red Sox vs. Orioles
1:05 p.m.
Ed Smith Stadium, Sarasota, Florida

Red Sox vs. Marlins
1:05 p.m.
City of Palms Park, Fort Myers, Florida

Pitching matchups

Alfredo Aceves (0-0, 0.00 ERA) vs. Brad Bergesen (1-0, 0.00)

Daisuke Matsuzaka (0-0, 4.50 ERA) vs. Anibal Sanchez (1-0, 4.50 ERA)

Lineups

Lineups will be posted before the first pitch

Did you know?

The Red Sox went 22 straight innings without a run before scoring five runs in the final four innings of their win over the Yankees.