Mike Baumann enters the Baltimore Orioles record books

The Baltimore Orioles finished another series win with a 9-3 victory over the New York Yankees on Sunday. The win gave the O's the season series win over the division rival and allowed them to stay 1.5 games over the Tampa Bay Rays for the division lead in the American League East.

The Orioles ambushed Yankees starter Luis Severino for six runs in the first inning, capped off by an Adam Frazier three run bomb. Orioles starter Dean Kremer, recorded seven strikeouts but control again was an issue and he was pulled in the bottom of the fifth inning when he allowed a leadoff single to Giancarlo Stanton.

In stepped Mike Baumann. Baumann finished the fifth inning, allowing only one hit and recorded a strikeout. He did allow the inherited runner to score, making the score 9-3 Orioles, but because he was the Orioles pitcher of record at the end of the fifth inning, he put himself in line for the win. When the game ended, Baumann had tied Grant Jackson's Orioles team record, set in 1973, by earning a win in his first eight decisions out of the bullpen.

Mike Baumann ties Orioles record after Sunday night win

Baumann is having a career season in his third year in the majors. He has now pitched 51.2 innings over 47 appearances for the Birds this year, many of which have been high leverage situations. Baumann has 53 strikeouts and is averaging over nine strikeouts for nine innings. His previous best was 6.0 K/9 in 2022.

Dennis Lamp set the major league record in 1985 when he went 11-0 for the Toronto Blue Jays in 53 appearances. Lamp did make one start that season but did not factor into the decision for that game. Matt Herges tied the record in 2000 with the Los Angeles Dodgers when he went 11-3. Herges made four starts that season and went 0-3, meaning all 11 of his wins came in relief.

Baumann has been a key player for the Orioles coming out of the bullpen. He certainly has benefitted by being called upon after a few short outings by starters this year, and an all-star reliever combo behind him. Not to mention some timely hitting and good run support, but let's give credit where credit is due. Baumann has been a steady presence in an Orioles bullpen that has appeared shaky at times. He hasn't been perfect this season but his record reflects otherwise.

With 57 games remaining this season, Baumann would make 22-23 more appearances if he were to continue on his current pace. There's no reason for Manager Brandon Hyde to stop trusting Baumann now, so he should remain a key middle reliever for the Orioles as they look to maintain the best record in the American League. Baumann's next appearance will likely come during the very important four game series in Toronto. Hopefully he can continue his historic run this season.