The Baltimore Orioles and the Philadelphia Phillies failed came one run short of pushing the score over the posted total yesterday, but I think they'll get the job done in Thursday's finale of this three-game set.

Baltimore righty Tom Eshelman (0-0, 3.68 ERA) was not at his very best when he allowed two runs on five hits with two Ks in four innings against the Nats last time out. He has pitched only 7 1/3 through his two starts on the season, and when Eshelman is done he'll hand over the ball to a bullpen that ranks 19th in the league with a 4.41 ERA.

Still, Baltimore's relievers have been sharper than the Phillies who wank dead last across the major leagues with a 10.19 ERA! Philadelphia starter Jake Arrieta (1-1, 2.45 ERA) has had a solid start to the year, but the Orioles have shown they can get to just about any pitcher this year.

Last but not least, note Baltimore's .307 batting average and .386 on-base percentage in day games this season, both the best marks in baseball.

10* play on OVER.