5 reasons the Baltimore Orioles could be sleepers in Wild Card race

Aug 31, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles shortstop Manny Machado (13) celebrates with right fielder Chris Davis (19) after scoring in the seventh inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Tampa Bay Rays defeated Baltimore Orioles 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 31, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles shortstop Manny Machado (13) celebrates with right fielder Chris Davis (19) after scoring in the seventh inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Tampa Bay Rays defeated Baltimore Orioles 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 21, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles third baseman Manny Machado (13) singles during the sixth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 21, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles third baseman Manny Machado (13) singles during the sixth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Baltimore’s offense is elite

Just look at this team. The roster is loaded with offensive studs. Baltimore has been known for its offense over the past few seasons and this year is no different, despite its unreal struggles at the plate since the middle of August.

During the current cold streak, the Orioles have scored more than three runs just five times — three of which resulted in wins. In all but two one of their 15 losses in the past 18 games, the Orioles have scored three runs or less, which is shocking since they’re ninth in all of baseball in runs scored.

How can an offense be considered ‘elite’ if it’s only scored more than three runs in consecutive games once since August 17?

Manny Machado is one of the best young hitters in the league and, at one point this season, was considered a MVP candidate. Chris Davis hit 50 home runs just two seasons ago. His power is top-notch and he scares all opposing pitchers. Matt Wieters, when healthy, may just be the best hitting catcher in the American League. Adam Jones is a consistent 25-home run per year type of player who is seemingly always atop the team in statistical categories.

Yes, this team is elite offensively and it’s only a matter of time before they break out again.

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