The Orioles got J.J. Hardy back three days ago and haven’t lost a game since.  Thursday night, the Birds secured a three game sweep of the Seattle Mariners with a 2-1 win in the 12th inning.

Zach Britton dueled with Jason Vargas as both starters went nine innings.  Britton gave up just three hits, no earned runs, no walks and struck out five.  Britton was looking for his sixth win of the season, but settled for a no decision after his best effort of his young career.  He’s now 5-2 with a 2.42 ERA.

Hardy returned to the Orioles lineup after over a month on the disabled list.  The Orioles were 4-2 when he hit the DL, they’re 3-0 with him back.  Against the M’s, Hardy hit .538 (7-13) with a run, a home run and 3 RBI.  He’s proven to be just the spark the Orioles needed in lineup.