During the Orioles' streak of allowing five runs or more, which extended to an American League-record 17 games June 20, there was a misconception among some that injured relievers Zach Britton and Darren O'Day couldn't have been used much even if they were healthy because the games were so lopsided.
Actually, it's the absence of the left-handed closer and side-arming right-hander that has largely contributed to the games being so out of hand. The injuries to Britton and O'Day have resulted in a negative domino effect on the bullpen.
Britton, who pitched in his first rehab game in short-season Aberdeen June 20, has had two stints on the 10-day disabled list with a strained left forearm and has been healthy for 13 of the Orioles' 70 games. The Orioles transferred him to the 60-day disabled list June 20, making him ineligible to pitch until July 4.
