masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles Class-A Frederick Keys affiliate tonight lost, but still clinched the first half Northern Division championship in the Carolina League.

Entering tonight with a magic number of one, the Keys lost at home 8-1 to Salem but wrapped up the division when Winston-Salem beat second-place Wilmington, 2-1.

By the way, there is no issue with Keys starting pitcher Rick Zagone, who pitched just two innings tonight. He allowed three runs, none earned and left the game after just the two…The Orioles Class-A Frederick Keys affiliate tonight lost, but still clinched the first half Northern Division championship in the Carolina League.

Entering tonight with a magic number of one, the Keys lost at home 8-1 to Salem but wrapped up the division when Winston-Salem beat second-place Wilmington, 2-1.

By the way, there is no issue with Keys starting pitcher Rick Zagone, who pitched just two innings tonight. He allowed three runs, none earned and left the game after just the two frames. There is no injury, he was just taken out because his pitch count reached 59.

The Keys played a poor game tonight in front of their biggest crowd of the season. With over 7.000 at Harry Grove Stadium, the Keys walked nine and made a season-high five errors.

Frederick wins the first half title for the fifth time in its 22-year history. The Keys are 37-25 on the season.