Talk about a bad time to go on a minor losing streak.

The Orioles blew a 2-0 lead Sept. 15 against the Oakland Athletics, thanks to a disappointing effort from starting pitcher Zach Britton, and ended up losing, 5-2. Britton struggled during the third inning, giving up five runs while surrendering four hits and walking four batters.

The Orioles had runners on second and third during the top of the ninth, but Endy Chavez grounded out to end the game.

With their second straight loss in Oakland, the Orioles (81-64) fell a game behind the Yankees (82-63) in the American League East. The Yankees took care of the Tampa Bay Rays, 5-3, in New York Sept. 15.

Birds outfielder Nate McLouth homered during the third inning, helping the Orioles build a 2-0 advantage against the Athletics. Mark Reynolds doubled Adam Jones home during the second for the first Orioles run.

The Orioles and the Athletics (84-61) are in control of the AL wild-card spots. The Angels are 2.5 games behind the Orioles for the final spot.

The Orioles will call on Randy Wolf to take the mound for the series finale against the Athletics Sept. 16. Wolf is 2-0 with the Birds, but has a 5.68 ERA.

Posted Sept. 16, 2012