Joe Saunders looked strong in 6.1 innings of work Monday as the Orioles beat the Blue Jays, 4-0. Saunders went more than five innings before giving up a hit or a walk, delivering his first victory on the mound for the Orioles.

Meanwhile, the Yankees lost to Tampa Bay, pulling the Orioles within one game of the lead in the American League East. The Orioles have won 20 of their last 28 games, and eight of their last 10. The Birds' current run is a remarkable one, as the club took two of three from the Yankees during the weekend and easily could have won on Saturday during a 4-3 loss.

On Monday, J.J. Hardy drove in two runs, while Nate McClouth and Nick Markakis each drove in one.

The Orioles spent much of August jockeying for position in the wild-card chase. Although the Orioles currently have a hold of one of the spots, it's clear now that they have their sights on doing something once thought impossible -- winning the AL East. Given the way they've played recently, there's little reason to doubt the Birds can pull off this trick.

The Orioles, now with 75 wins, are just six away from getting their first .500 season in 15 years.

Posted Sept. 3, 2012