Although the All-Star break could halt the recent momentum the Orioles have created, right fielder Nick Markakis said the streak's timing is perfect.
"It's big, especially going into the break," Markakis said. "It gives everybody a good feeling, a good plane ride home, a good break, and we've got a nice homestand coming home, 10 games, and we can put ourselves in a good position to start the second half."
That was the common sentiment in the visiting clubhouse as the Orioles pulled off one of the biggest suprises of their season.
"To sweep this team, one of the best teams in the league, in Arlington, that is huge for our team's confidence," Arrieta said. "It's a great way to end the first half. We are doing a lot of good things right now, and hopefully we can keep it going in the second half."
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Fabulous four
A look at each game of the Orioles' four-game sweep of the first-place Rangers in Arlington, Texas.
Thursday
Orioles 6, Rangers 4: The Orioles' bullpen pitches 41/3 scoreless innings while the Texas relievers melt down late. In the Orioles' three-run eighth, Rangers pitchers hit two batters and issue a bases-loaded walk.
Friday
Orioles 7, Rangers 6, 10 innings: Corey Patterson, right, hits his first career grand slam to tie the score with two outs in the ninth inning, and Jake Fox follows with the winning solo shot in the 10th.
Saturday
Orioles 6, Rangers 1: Chris Tillman grabs the spotlight from Cliff Lee, who was making his Texas debut. Tillman allows just one run on two hits in 71/3 innings, and the Orioles hit three home runs to cruise to a win.
Sunday
Orioles 4, Rangers 1: A three-run second inning and Miguel Tejada's solo homer in the ninth are plenty of run support for Orioles starter Jake Arrieta, right, who gives up one run in 61/3 innings in getting the victory
