tony sipp

The Orioles opened their final series of the season with a 2-1 loss to the Houston Astros.

Yes, the money continues to flow for free-agent pitchers this hot-stove season, even for left-handed specialist relievers.

Tyler Wilson and Mike Wright weren¿t expected to be giving the major league club starts this early in the season. But they provided the innings necessary while offering a glimpse of the future, as the Orioles (22-24) split their doubleheader with the White Sox, winning Game 2, 6-3, after dropping a 3-2 decision in Game 1 in front of an announced1 8,441.

Chris Davis homered twice, including the eventual winning homer in the eighth, to lead the Orioles to a 5-4 win over the Houston Astros.

As the nonwaiver trade deadline approaches Thursday at 4 p.m., the Orioles are focused on acquiring a mid-level starter and a left-handed reliever, as well as a potential upgrade offensively at either second base or catcher.

Chris Tillman allowed two walks and a three-run homer to the first three batters he faced in the Orioles' 5-2 loss to the Houston Astros before an announced Mother's Day sellout of 45,944 on Sunday at Camden Yards.