ORIOLES LOSE ON WALK OFF TO DODGERS 6-5 AS HELSLEY BLOWS SAVE AND O'NEILL MAKES LOSING ERROR
Lineup Mistake: Albernaz started infielder Jeremiah Jackson in left field—a position he had never played in the majors—resulting in a defensive misplay that allowed an early Dodgers run. [1]
Poor Defensive Substitution: After Jackson drove in a run to give the Orioles the lead, Albernaz replaced him with Tyler O'Neill instead of the superior defender, Blaze Alexander. O'Neill, despite his high salary, has been one of the team's worst statistical defenders. [1]
Bullpen Mismanagement: Closer Ryan Helsley, struggling heavily with his command in his second appearance back from the injured list, was left in the game despite giving up a home run and multiple walks. Albernaz failed to get anyone warming up in the bullpen, even during an extended replay review.
The Meltdown: The game ended when the Dodgers hit a single to right field. O'Neill misplayed the ball, missing the cutoff man and throwing wild to home plate, which allowed the game-winning run to score
ARTICLE PUBLISHED ON JUNE 20, 2026