jeff niemann

Right-hander gives up three-run double to Evan Longoria in third inning, but pitches well during the rest of his outing

Infielder has three hits in first three at-bats, including a two-run HR

Baltimore Orioles outfielder Nick Markakis said he's confident he will have enough time -- and at-bats -- to be ready for the regular season.

Stephen Strasburg surrendered three hits over two innings -- including a single and home run to the first two batters he faced -- in his first action since Sept. 7.

The American League East has long been considered one of baseball's toughest divisions, and that should hold true again in 2013. But it's no longer a division dominated by a couple high-spending teams and the occasional upstart. Suddenly, the AL East is being recognized for its depth.

Down the Stretch is a new daily Orioles Insider blog that will help set up the coming night for the O's and their American League competition as the push for the postseason intensifies.

We'll have a late start today because the Orioles first full squad workout doesn't begin until noon. That's because most of the position player have to take their physicals beforehand.