In a season where no lead seems safe, the Baltimore Orioles turned the tables in spectacular fashion on Friday night at Camden Yards, dismantling the Tampa Bay Rays 22-8 in one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent MLB memory.
Just nine days earlier, Baltimore had squandered an 8-0 lead to lose 12-8 to the Rays. This time, it was Tampa Bay who jumped ahead 6-0 in the second inning, only to watch the Orioles erupt for 22 unanswered runs.
Historic Turnaround
The Orioles made history in the process. According to data shared by the Elias Sports Bureau, Baltimore became the first team in either the American or National League to win by 14 or more runs after trailing by six.
I'm proud of our hitters, said interim manager Tony Mansolino. We were on the other side of this not too long ago.
Baltimore’s offensive explosion came on a damp night at Camden Yards, falling just one run short of the team’s all-time scoring record since relocating to the city in 1954.
Offensive Fireworks
Gunnar Henderson and Gary Sanchez each tallied four hits, including a home run apiece. Colton Cowser added three doubles and scored four times, while Ramón Laureano also crossed the plate four times. In total, the Orioles racked up 21 hits and set a franchise record with 14 extra-base hits—nine doubles, one triple, and four homers.
Coby Mayo ignited the rally with a two-run double in the second inning. By the time he returned to the plate in the eighth, Baltimore led 20-8, and Tampa Bay had turned to infielder Jose Caballero to pitch. Mayo responded by launching his first career home run.
An awesome moment obviously, no matter who it's off of, Mayo said. Really cool thing.
A Rare Feat
The last time two teams exchanged six-run comebacks in the same season was 2023 and it also involved the Rays. The symmetry highlights just how volatile games between these two clubs can be.
Momentum Shifting
After struggling offensively in recent games, including being no-hit into the seventh inning in three of their last five, Baltimore delivered a statement win.
It was a lot of fun, Cowser said. That's what this team's capable of.
The three match series between Orioles and Rays is led by the former 1-0.