Jones', Albers & Millar's Big Night; O's Down Rays, 4-3; The Rundown

Photo Gallery: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Baltimore Orioles, April 15th

Last night at the Yard, the Baltimore Orioles continued their very strong start to the 2008 campaign by defeating Toronto, 4-3. Despite giving up a 2-run homer to Alex Rios, to almost put a scare into Oriole fans, George Sherill closed out the game, picking up his sixth save.

What a strange feeling to be atop of the AL East — um, for now…

Kevin Millar had a great night, driving in three and hitting 2-run homer; meanwhile, Adam Jones had his best game as an Oriole, going 3 for 3 with two steals. As well, Melvin Mora, Brian Roberts and Luke Scott also had two hits.

Another youngster was impressive last night — Matt Albers. The big kid went five innings, and only gave up a single run. Perhaps after this start, he might be on his way to earning a permanent spot in the starting rotation. He was helped greatly by Jim Johnson for a few innings, and the tandem of Jamie Walker and Chad Bradford who kept the Jays off the board until very late.

What can we say about Adam Jones? I am not sure if a lot of you watched the game on MASN last night, but he hit some solid balls into the outfield, and showed a solid all-around game. Despite his 4-strikeout performance on Sunday where some questioned his ability to be on the roster — at this point, he just needs to play everyday and get used to life in the majors, as well, learn the game and the pitchers he’ll face.

Markakis struggled his first two months in the majors, and look where he ended up — Jones will be fine.