masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgHOUSTON – The Orioles have a two-run lead today. They also have their health.

Nick Markakis reached on an infield single in the top of the first inning, and shortstop Jonathan Villar’s throw nailed him on the left side of the head as he motored up the line. Markakis stayed in the game.

The next batter, Manny Machado, was grazed on the left elbow by a pitch from Astros starter Scott Feldman.

It’s dangerous out there.

The rally fizzled after Nelson Cruz grounded into a double play.

David…HOUSTON – The Orioles have a two-run lead today. They also have their health.

Nick Markakis reached on an infield single in the top of the first inning, and shortstop Jonathan Villar’s throw nailed him on the left side of the head as he motored up the line. Markakis stayed in the game.

The next batter, Manny Machado, was grazed on the left elbow by a pitch from Astros starter Scott Feldman.

It’s dangerous out there.

The rally fizzled after Nelson Cruz grounded into a double play.

David Lough put a hurting on a Feldman sinker in the second inning, delivering a two-out, two-run homer to right field to give the Orioles a 2-0 lead.

Lough was batting .159 with no homers and three RBIs. His last home run came on Sept. 26, 2013 with the Royals.

Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. was in the WBAL Radio booth in the second inning. Lough may request the Iron Man’s presence more often.

Ripken threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Left-hander Wei-Yin Chen threw 19 pitches in a scoreless first, allowing a leadoff single to Jose Altuve and striking out two.