Gibson, Rutschman move Orioles closer to AL East title with 5-1 win over Guardians

CLEVELAND (AP) — The Baltimore Orioles stretched their lead over Tampa Bay in the AL East to 2 1/2-games with Sunday’s 5-1 win over the Cleveland Guardians.

Kyle Gibson pitched seven strong innings and Adley Rutschman reached base four times. Baltimore reduced its magic number to three to clinch the division. Baltimore has six games remaining and holds the tiebreaker over the Rays. Gibson allowed one run and five hits while striking out four. Rutschman doubled twice, drove in a run and drew two walks for Baltimore. The Guardians’ Triston McKenzie, activated from the 60-day injured list before the game, issued a career-high six walks in 1 2/3 innings.

Baltimore ends the regular season with a six-game homestand against Washington and Boston. RHP Kyle Bradish (11-7, 3.01 ERA) will start Tuesday night versus the Nationals.

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