BALTIMORE (AP) - The Baltimore Orioles have defied logic this season in a manner that transcends their unlikely stature as a playoff contender.
Baltimore has been outscored by 49 runs, committed more errors than any team in the majors and ranks last in stolen bases.
Yet, instead of stumbling toward a 15th consecutive losing season, the surprising Orioles trail the AL East-leading New York Yankees by only 5 1/2 games and are in second place in the wild-card race.
Baltimore has been successful because of its ability to win the close ones. The Orioles are 22-6 in one-run games, including an ongoing 11-game streak that began in late June. They've also won 12 straight in extra innings.
Much of the credit goes to a bullpen, along with added depth in the starting rotation.
