The Orioles and Yankees got no closer to deciding the American League East over the weekend and instead only served to muddle who might be available in the playoffs for whomever survives.
Baltimore right fielder Nick Markakis got knocked out of the Orioles’ 5-4 victory Saturday with a broken left thumb after being struck by a pitch in the fifth inning, making him the team’s third leadoff hitter to go down this year.
With six weeks until his return, Markakis is out for the remainder of the regular season and well into October — should Baltimore qualify for its first postseason appearance since 1997.
New York is also in shaky territory with Mark Teixeira, who aggravated a left calf injury in the same game. It was Teixeira’s first start after missing the previous 10 games; he now will be out at least another four, and he could miss the stretch run.
Of course, Markakis and Teixeira both could be done for the year if Tampa Bay sneaks past both teams.
– Craig Stouffer
