masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgI’m sure that Christina Markakis’ doctor didn’t induce labor last night so husband Nick could face Shaun Marcum in Toronto. Pure coincidence – though the fact that he wore an Orioles cap turned backward during the delivery raised suspicions.

OK, I’m kidding.

Anyway, it was nice timing.

Markakis will rejoin the Orioles tonight after leaving the team yesterday for the birth of his second son. The proud father just happens to be 9-for-20 with a double, five homers, six RBIs and six walks…I’m sure that Christina Markakis’ doctor didn’t induce labor last night so husband Nick could face Shaun Marcum in Toronto. Pure coincidence – though the fact that he wore an Orioles cap turned backward during the delivery raised suspicions.

OK, I’m kidding.

Anyway, it was nice timing.

Markakis will rejoin the Orioles tonight after leaving the team yesterday for the birth of his second son. The proud father just happens to be 9-for-20 with a double, five homers, six RBIs and six walks lifetime against Marcum.

I’d bat him second, third and fourth.

Miguel Tejada is 7-for-16 with three doubles, three homers and eight RBIs against Marcum, who’s carrying a 4-1 record and 2.82 ERA into tonight’s start. Marcum is 1-2 with a 5.68 ERA in 11 lifetime appearances against the Orioles.

Adam Jones, who tweeted (man, I hate that word) that he was detained by immigration in Canada until 5 a.m. – and I’m fairly certain he meant customs – is 5-for-13 with a triple and home run.

He really needs to stop using “Pacman” as a nickname.

Corey Patterson’s 3-for-7 with two doubles and an RBI. We know where he’ll hit tonight.

Maybe Kevin Millwood finally captures that elusive win. I’d hate for him to win the ERA title with an 0-20 record.

Update: Single-A Frederick activated shortstop Greg Miclat from the disabled list and transferred third baseman Billy Rowell to Aberdeen. It’s a paper move, but also interesting that Rowell is the chosen one.