Jorge Mateo’s single in the 12th inning brought in the run that put the Baltimore Orioles ahead, securing a 7-6 victory over the Washington Nationals on Wednesday night. This win prevented the Orioles from being swept for the first time in almost two years.
Despite blowing two-run leads in the ninth and 11th innings, the Orioles managed to pull through. Ryan Mountcastle’s two-run homer in the 11th inning gave Baltimore a 5-3 lead, but the Nationals tied the game again in the bottom half.
In the 12th inning, Mateo’s single brought in Jordan Westburg, who was placed on second base as per the extra innings rule. Mateo advanced to third base due to errors by third baseman Ildemaro Vargas and catcher Keibert Ruiz, and eventually scored on a wild pitch.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde described the game as eventful, highlighting Mountcastle’s crucial homer and Mateo’s exciting play. Despite the challenges, Hyde expressed relief at winning the game.
In the bottom half of the 12th inning, Jacob Webb, the Orioles’ pitcher, allowed Luis García Jr.’s leadoff double, which brought the Nationals within one run. However, Webb retired the next three batters to secure his second save of the season.
