5 Orioles players that need to play better for Baltimore to have any chance in ALDS

Bryan Baker

The Baltimore bullpen was always likely to play an outsized role this postseason given the lack of postseason experience in the Orioles' starting rotation. Coming into the playoffs, Bryan Baker had quietly been one of Baltimore's most consistent bullpen arms with a 3.60 ERA in 46 appearances this season while striking out better than a batter an inning.

However, Baker did struggle at times this season with walks and that proved to be a big problem in Game Two. While recording just a single out, Baker walked three batters before giving way to the aforementioned Webb who served up a grand slam to allow all three runners to score. Bullpen depth is super important right now and Baker needs to find the strike zone this series when he is in there or else this could be a quick exit for Baltimore.

Ryan Mountcastle

The Orioles have gotten some strong play from their lineup from a few sources including Gunnar Henderson, Austin Hays, and Aaron Hicks of all players. However, things have been pretty inconsistent so far and the Rangers' rotation is vulnerable which means Ryan Mountcastle is going to need to help the Orioles' cause some more.

To be clear, Mountcastle hasn't been a problem. He has hits in both games in the series and has driven in a pair of runs. However, this Texas offense is going to be putting runs up on the board and the Orioles' power hitters are going to have to start impacting the ball more to keep pace. Mountcastle has the power to be one of those guys and Baltimore needs him to be that guy and quick.

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