masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles and Yankees are fielding lineups today that conjure images of a split-squad game in spring training.

Anyone know if it’s raining in Sarasota or Tampa?

The Orioles found the strength to take a 1-0 lead in the first inning, and the rally started with Matt Angle slapping a single into center field.

Angle stole second, took third on a ground ball and scored on Nick Markakis’ grounder to second base. Markakis has 65 RBIs this season.

If Angle is going to make the roster in 2012,…The Orioles and Yankees are fielding lineups today that conjure images of a split-squad game in spring training.

Anyone know if it’s raining in Sarasota or Tampa?

The Orioles found the strength to take a 1-0 lead in the first inning, and the rally started with Matt Angle slapping a single into center field.

Angle stole second, took third on a ground ball and scored on Nick Markakis’ grounder to second base. Markakis has 65 RBIs this season.

If Angle is going to make the roster in 2012, it will likely be as an extra outfielder. He doesn’t hit with enough power to play left field every day. But he’s got tools that I think will play in the majors in a specific role.

Case in point: Angle laid down a sacrifice bunt last night in miserable conditions. How many of his teammates could do the same?

Angle stole a base today. Imagine a guy with speed who utilizes it on the basepaths. It’s not a unique concept, but it’s sorely lacking on this team, especially with Brian Roberts on the disabled list.

Angle had all sorts of trouble in left field last night, but he gets a pass – or is it a rain check? – because of the weather. Most players are kept indoors during hurricane-like conditions. They don’t track fly balls.

That 1-0 lead didn’t last long. Alex Rodriguez’s two-run double off Zach Britton in the bottom of the first has put the Orioles in another hole.

Let’s hope it doesn’t fill up with water.

Update: The Orioles tied the game in the second on a Nolan Reimold walk and stolen base, A.J. Burnett wild pitch and error by Yankees first baseman Brandon Laird.

Update II: Reimold just hit a two-run homer in the top of the third to give the Orioles a 4-2 lead.

Reimold is making his first start since Saturday. He had one home run since Aug. 10.