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SCOUTING REPORT: A funny thing happened to the Orioles after they won three of four in Boston the weekend before last: a season-high seven-game losing streak that has stirred memories of last year's horrid finish when they dropped 32 of their final 36.
The Orioles were swept by the Devil Rays at the Trop, then lost four straight at home to the Yankees. Eight days ago they were on the verge of getting back to .500 and overtaking Toronto for third place. Now they are a season-worst nine games under .500 and might have to be concerned about getting caught by the Rays.
Injuries have been an issue all season for the Orioles. But pitching has been the primary problem in their recent struggles, especially the bullpen, which is 0-5 with a 7.27 ERA during the streak and has allowed runs in the team's past 10 games.
What offense they do have has been sparked by some speedy kids at the top of the order: second baseman Brian Roberts and outfielder Luis Matos. Jay Gibbons and Tony Batista have gotten some big hits against the Rays. Jeff Conine has missed eight games because of biceps bursitis.
DISABLED LIST: RHP Kurt Ainsworth, OF Marty Cordova, LHP Omar Daal, RHP Scott Erickson, INF Jerry Hairston, OF Melvin Mora, RHP Willis Roberts, 1B David Segui.
CONNECTIONS: Rays manager Lou Piniella made his major-league debut for the Orioles in 1962. ... Orioles pitcher Jason Johnson was a Rays expansion draft pick, traded for outfielder Danny Clyburn. ... Orioles coach Sam Perlozzo worked for Piniella in Cincinnati and Seattle.
SEASON SERIES: The Rays lead 10-6 and are 3-4 in Baltimore. Overall, the Rays lead 47-44 and are 21-23 at Camden Yards.