The Orioles weren't ever really major players for Prince Fielder, even though many assumed they were going to be last year. When Fielder smacked two home runs Friday night for the Tigers during their 5-3 win against the Orioles, he showed what a difference maker he is.

The Orioles are in the wild-card chase with a 64-55 record, with or without a power-hitting first baseman. Detroit's win gave the Tigers an identical record to the Orioles. Fielder is a big-game player, who came up big during a huge game.

The Orioles have been getting some big games recently from Mark Reynolds, who was ejected Friday for arguing a reversed call in favor of Detroit, but he's not a guy who rises to the moment. Reynolds is at first because he can't play third base. The Orioles had to play musical chairs there, where they didn't have anyone suitable. Fielder's 88 RBIs and 22 home runs are off his pace from previous years in Milwaukee. Reynolds has half those numbers.

Imagine Fielder in homer-hospitable Camden Yards. This magic summer would have had an extra ingredient, which might have made the Orioles a contender for the American League East and not just the wild card.

Posted Aug. 18, 2012.