Orioles-Yankees series preview: The O’s face another AL East heavyweight

Key Points:

• The Orioles return home to Camden Yards after an 11-day, 10-game road trip, coming off a strong series win against the AL-leading Tampa Bay Rays, boosting their confidence ahead of a series against the second-best AL team, the New York Yankees.
• The Yankees, despite being comfortably in postseason position, have struggled offensively without injured stars Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger, relying heavily on their power hitting, which the Orioles’ pitching staff will aim to neutralize by limiting home runs.
• Key Yankees pitchers include AL ERA leader Cam Schlittler, who the Orioles won’t face, and a strong bullpen led by closer David Bednar; meanwhile, the Orioles will face starters Carlos Rodón, Shane Baz, Chris Bassitt, and Kyle Bradish in the three-game series.
• Notable pitching matchups include Rodón’s first start since June after injury, Baz’s inconsistent luck despite quality starts, Bassitt’s return from the IL, and Gerrit Cole’s return from Tommy John surgery, presenting significant challenges for the Orioles.
• The series outcome could hinge on whether the Orioles maintain their recent momentum against top teams or revert to inconsistent play, with home-field advantage and pitching matchups playing critical roles.