masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles didn’t rip the cover off the ball – I’m not sure they smudged it – but they manufactured a run to tie the game, 1-1, in the bottom of the fourth.

Nick Markakis and Miguel Tejada walked to begin the inning. Ty Wigginton tapped to the mound, and A’s left-hander Dallas Braden got the out at third base. Adam Jones followed with a ground ball that resulted in an out at second, but shortstop Cliff Pennington made a wide throw to first that allowed Tejada to score.

Happy Birthday,…The Orioles didn’t rip the cover off the ball – I’m not sure they smudged it – but they manufactured a run to tie the game, 1-1, in the bottom of the fourth.

Nick Markakis and Miguel Tejada walked to begin the inning. Ty Wigginton tapped to the mound, and A’s left-hander Dallas Braden got the out at third base. Adam Jones followed with a ground ball that resulted in an out at second, but shortstop Cliff Pennington made a wide throw to first that allowed Tejada to score.

Happy Birthday, Miggi.

Jones raced to third base, but Matt Wieters struck out.

Braden’s coming out of the game. We’ll find out why.

Jeremy Guthrie’s pitch count is up to 97, so manager Dave Trembley will be dipping into that reconstructed bullpen.

Since I rarely turn down a free lunch, I’ll be serving as a judge again at tomorrow’s second annual Orioles Cook-Off at ESPN Zone from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Brad Bergesen will be preparing his “Simple Salmon,” Kevin Millwood will whip up his chicken enchiladas, and Luke Scott will present his version of surf and turf – if his sore shoulder allows it.

I assume they have plenty of ice behind the bar if Scott’s shoulder starts to ache.

Gregg Zaun isn’t here to defend his title. His chicken enchiladas took first place last year.

Koji Uehara wanted to participate, but he couldn’t stand the heat and had to get out of the kitchen.

OK, I’ll ease up on the man. I promise.

The Orioles are suggesting that fans donate either $5 or three canned goods at the door, with all donations and food going to the Maryland Food Bank. Each fan who makes a donation will receive one autographed card from either Bergesen, Millwood or Scott.