The Orioles finally can close out their exhibition schedule today and prepare for Thursday’s opener in Toronto. The fake games will be over.
Left-hander Cade Povich makes the start against the Nationals in D.C., a tune-up before he takes the ball for the first home game on March 31. Povich has pitched four times and the only runs allowed were the five that the Blue Jays put on the board in the fifth inning on March 13.
Povich followed up with five hitless innings in Tuesday’s rematch, putting him ahead of Albert Suárez for the fifth starter’s job. Suárez moves to the bullpen.
Colton Cowser bats leadoff today and plays left field. Jackson Holliday is the shortstop.
A lineup filled with regulars also includes Adley Rutschman behind the plate, Jordan Westburg at second base, Ryan Mountcastle at first base and Cedric Mullins in center field.