In a thrilling matchup between the top two teams in the American League East, the Baltimore Orioles managed to fend off a late surge by the Tampa Bay Rays, securing an 8-6 victory on Tuesday night. Aaron Hicks played a pivotal role for the Orioles, smashing a home run and driving in four runs. Despite building a commanding seven-run lead, the Orioles had to withstand a fierce comeback attempt by the Rays.

Anthony Santander and Ryan O'Hearn also contributed home runs for Baltimore, while starting pitcher Kyle Bradish delivered a solid performance, allowing just two runs and four hits over five innings. The win brings the Orioles within four games of the division-leading Rays. Félix Bautista, celebrating his 28th birthday, closed out the game for Baltimore, earning his 20th save of the season.

The Rays began chipping away at Baltimore's lead in the fifth inning with an RBI double by Francisco Mejía. In the sixth, Manuel Margot's pinch-hit single drove in two runs, bringing the Rays within one run of tying the game. However, a critical running catch by Orioles second baseman Adam Frazier prevented further damage and preserved Baltimore’s narrow lead. The Rays' loss snapped their impressive streak of avoiding three consecutive defeats and marked their third straight loss overall.

Baltimore's Austin Hays, the current AL batting leader, continued his hot streak with a 3-for-4 performance, raising his average to .327 and extending his streak of multi-hit games to five. Gunnar Henderson, returning after a brief illness, doubled on the first pitch he saw and later scored on a single by Santander. Hicks' three-run homer in the first inning set the tone early for the Orioles.

Since joining the Orioles after being released by the New York Yankees, Hicks has made a significant impact, hitting .340 with three home runs and seven extra-base hits in just 17 games. Santander's two-run homer in the second inning further extended Baltimore's lead. Rays starter Tyler Glasnow, making his fifth start of the season, struggled, giving up six runs and six hits in 4 1/3 innings.

Randy Arozarena expressed his desire to participate in the upcoming Home Run Derby. On the injury front, Orioles outfield Cedric Mullins (groin) and infielder Ryan Mountcastle (vertigo) are expected to begin rehab assignments soon. For the Rays, second baseman Brandon Lowe (herniated disc) has resumed baseball activities, while center fielder Jose Siri received an injection for his shoulder and may return to action shortly.

The Orioles and Rays will continue their series on Wednesday, with Tyler Wells and Taj Bradley scheduled to start for their respective teams.