Three games, three runs in the Bronx, and maybe we do need to notice the Orioles

The Orioles just became the first team in 15 years to come to New York and allow the Yankees just three runs in a three-game series. The last time it happened, with the 1997 Braves, it took two guys headed for the Hall of Fame.

Someone asked me this morning if this week's Orioles-Yankees series tells us we should be concerned about the Yankees hitting.

More likely, it reminds us that we should pay attention to the Orioles pitching.

Three runs in three games? That just doesn't happen to the Yankees, not at Yankee Stadium (old one or new one).

In fact, before this week, when the Orioles did it in games started by Jason Hammel, Brian Matusz and Jake Arrieta, the last time the Yankees had been held to three runs in a three-game series at home was all the way back in 1997, in an interleague series against the Braves.

Atlanta's starters in that series: Tom Glavine, Denny Neagle and Greg Maddux.

The last time it happened against an American League team? That would be 1992, and the opponent was the soon-to-be world champion Blue Jays.

Toronto's starters: David Cone, Juan Guzman and Jack Morris.

The last time the Orioles did it? That would be 1976.

Baltimore's starters: Jim Palmer, Rudy May and Mike Flanagan.

It doesn't mean much if the Orioles can't keep this up. But it sure does suggest that they might be capable of it.