It's been eight starts since Dallas Braden's perfect game back on May 9. He hasn't picked up a win since.
Unfortunately, today won't be the ninth chance for Braden, as he's been scratched with elbow troubles. An MRI revealed a mild case of elbow tendinitis a couple weeks ago. Looks like it has flared up, as Vin Mazzaro will be starting in Braden's place. Dallas's start has been pushed back to Saturday, against the Indians.
Of course, there really isn't a better opponent to face when times are tough than the Baltimore Orioles. Baltimore is an appalling 23-52, which would put them on pace for 50 wins. The O's offense is merely below average, but the pitching is one of the worst in the league. To their credit, they're actually on a four game win streak, after a sweep of the Nationals, but that win streak needs to stop now. Tonight's starter, Brian Matusz, is a top prospect that has run into some trouble lately. Hopefully the A's offense can turn some of that Pirates momentum into success here.
It really would have been nice to see Braden get a shot here. After all, it's been 51 days since his perfect game. Tough luck, man.
