Gunnar Henderson’s leadoff home run set the tone for the Baltimore Orioles’ offensive onslaught against Zack Wheeler and the Philadelphia Phillies. Henderson’s eighth homer of the season to start a game marked a milestone, tying him with Kyle Schwarber for the most leadoff home runs in the major leagues.
The Orioles’ bats then came alive, with Colton Cowser launching a 443-foot shot in the second inning, followed by additional home runs in three of Wheeler’s next four innings on the mound.
The Orioles’ 8-3 victory marked a series win, taking two out of three games against the Phillies. The win also brought the Orioles within 1.5 games of the American League East-leading New York Yankees, setting the stage for a crucial three-game series between the two teams starting Tuesday night.
Despite a highly anticipated pitching duel between Wheeler and Corbin Burnes, the game was marked by a series of unexpected events, including the ejection of Phillies manager Rob Thomson and multiple pauses in play due to loud plane flyovers related to Baltimore’s Fleet Week celebrations.
Henderson’s leadoff homer was a harbinger of things to come, as the Orioles’ offense exploded for eight runs on 11 hits. Cowser’s home run was a particular highlight, a towering 443-foot shot that landed in the upper deck in right field.
The Orioles’ win was a testament to their resilience and determination, as they overcame a strong start by Wheeler to take the game and the series. With the Yankees looming on the horizon, the Orioles’ series win against the Phillies was a crucial step towards a potential division title.