The Orioles' second half begins in Houston, and the stakes are high. With a chance to make a postseason run, the team faces the Astros in a pivotal series. The key to success? Pitching to Yordan Alvarez, the Astros' MVP-caliber slugger, is a must. While the Astros' offense outside of Alvarez is underwhelming, their starting rotation has been a disaster, with a 5.26 ERA, the third-worst in baseball. The Orioles, on the other hand, have a strong starting rotation, with Dean Kremer and Kyle Bradish leading the way. Kremer has a perfect 4-0 record and 2.59 ERA against the Astros, while Bradish has been impeccable, never allowing a run in three starts spanning 22.2 innings. The series will be a test of the Orioles' ability to capitalize on their strengths and overcome their weaknesses. The outcome will determine their playoff hopes and the direction of their season. Will the Orioles make a run at the postseason, or will they return to their struggles? The answer lies in the upcoming series against the Astros.
