Just a few weeks ago, the Orioles were busy making selections in the 2009 MLB Draft. The same was true 30 years ago. With their first pick in the 1979 edition, Baltimore took North Carolina-native Tim Maples. The right-handed pitcher, however, never saw action in the majors. The Orioles certainly hope that doesn’t happen with this year’s first selection, Matthew Hobgood.
Storm Davis, a seventh round choice, began his career in 1982 with the Orioles, while two other late selections eventually enjoyed lengthy stints in the big leagues. Glenn Davis (31st round) finished with 190 career home runs and a .250 batting average. Kevin Gross (32nd round) won 142 games over 15 seasons.
As for the players that were currently part of the lineup in 1979, they were busy watching their rear-view mirror, as the Boston Red Sox were close behind in the standings.
Baltimore did all they could to extend their lead, embarking on a six-game win streak from June 6-11.
In three of those contests, Oriole pitching shut out their opponent. Earl Weaver’s tendency to mix his lineup – mainly due to match-ups – was never more in effect than it was on June 11.
Against White Sox starter, lefty Rich Wortham, Baltimore put shortstop and right-handed hitter Kiko Garcia at the leadoff spot in place of left-handed hitter Al Bumbry. Benny Ayala was No. 2, while Ken Singleton and Lee May rounded out the top of the order. Overall, the Orioles’ first four hitters all swung from the right side against the southpaw Wortham. The result, thanks also to solid pitching from Scott McGregor, propelled Baltimore to a 6-0 win.
The O’s encountered what would be a slight hiccup, losing 12-4 against Chicago the next day. But a win in the series finale kicked off their longest winning streak of 1979.
– Brian Wright, special to Baseball Digest
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