Although he's spent time in Triple-A Norfolk, Tommy Hunter has given up 32 home runs and is just four away from giving up the most in Oriole history. He gave up three last night during a 12-3 loss to the Rangers.

The 32 homers are the most any pitcher in the majors has allowed this season.

Hunter's an accountable guy. He's also a hittable guy, apparently, as players of all sizes have crushed his pitches in 121 innings this season. The Orioles acquired Hunter as part of a trade with Texas a year ago, and he was set up perfectly to make that acquisition look great last night.

Instead, the Orioles fell a half game behind the Athletics for the second wild-card spot, and two games behind the Rays.

Hunter went just three innings Wednesday, allowing eight runs on eight hits and two walks. The Orioles' success hinges on the rotation being better than ever, and Wednesday showed Hunter still isn't up to the task.

Posted Aug. 23, 2012