masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgJason Hammel allowed four earned runs in four of his last six starts before tonight. He also won four of his last six starts, though not each time he permitted four runs. It just worked out that way.

Hammel is on top of his game tonight, permitting one baserunner in his first five innings – on a walk to Dan Uggla. He’s retired 12 in a row heading into the sixth.

Hammel has thrown 57 pitches, 33 for strikes, and fanned four Braves.

His right knee isn’t keeping him out of the rotation or…Jason Hammel allowed four earned runs in four of his last six starts before tonight. He also won four of his last six starts, though not each time he permitted four runs. It just worked out that way.

Hammel is on top of his game tonight, permitting one baserunner in his first five innings – on a walk to Dan Uggla. He’s retired 12 in a row heading into the sixth.

Hammel has thrown 57 pitches, 33 for strikes, and fanned four Braves.

His right knee isn’t keeping him out of the rotation or forcing manager Buck Showalter to skip his turn, but it’s constantly being monitored. And that’s especially true as games move into the middle innings.

It must not be bothering him tonight.

Brian Roberts’ RBI single increased the Orioles’ lead to 3-0.

Brandon Beachy left the game with soreness in his right elbow.

Update: Make it 15 in a row, as Hammel retired the Braves in order on 10 pitches in the sixth.

Zach Britton has allowed three runs and six hits in five innings, with no walks and three strikeouts. He’s thrown 90 pitches, 57 for strikes.

Roberts just singled to score two more runs in the seventh inning, giving him three RBIs and increasing the Orioles’ lead to 5-0.

Update II: Hammel walked Uggla with two outs in the seventh after retiring 17 in a row, and Jason Heyward singled to break up the no-hitter.

Heyward is 6-for-8 lifetime against Hammel.

Eric Hinske swung at the first pitch and flied out to end the threat and keep Hammel’s shutout intact.

Britton was charged with five runs and eight hits in five-plus innings. Steve Johnson replaced him.

Update III: Hammel tossed his second career complete game and recorded his first shutout, allowing only one hit and walking two batters. He threw 103 pitches. A masterful performance.

Hammel is 7-2 with a 2.87 ERA this season.