Baltimore’s playoff hopes remain alive following a 9-5 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Wednesday, keeping the Orioles within striking distance in the American League wild card race. With 15 games left in the regular season, Baltimore (71-76) trails Cleveland (74-73) by three games but holds the potential to force a playoff spot if it can secure more wins than the Guardians in the remaining schedule.

The Guardians currently hold the tiebreaker advantage after taking the season series lead by winning on Tuesday, meaning Baltimore must finish at least one game ahead to qualify for the postseason. Despite the challenging path, the Orioles showed offensive resilience during Wednesday’s game, highlighted by a productive third inning that put pressure on Cleveland’s pitchers.

Starting pitcher Shane Baz delivered a strong outing, managing to contain the Guardians despite an early two-run home run conceded to Chase DeLauter in the first inning. Baz received robust offensive support from his team, which far exceeded the run production he had received over his previous four starts combined. He maintained control through the fifth inning but faltered briefly in the sixth, allowing three runs — including a home run by Nathaniel Lowe and a double from Patrick Bailey.

Left-handed reliever Josh Walker entered the game with two outs in the sixth and successfully stranded the inherited runners, preserving the Orioles’ lead. The team extended its advantage in the bottom half of that inning as Coby Mayo hit a solo home run off Cleveland reliever Franco Aleman, adding to Baltimore’s margin.

This victory keeps Baltimore in contention but underlines the need for sustained strong performances and favorable outcomes elsewhere to secure a postseason berth. The Orioles must continue to capitalize on offensive opportunities and maintain solid pitching as they aim to close the gap with the Guardians in the final stretch of the season.