Looking to build off offensive outburst, O's take on Astros

(Photo credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports)

One day after their thrilling extra-inning win over the New York Yankees, the Orioles left no doubt in the series finale Thursday.

Baltimore crushed the Yankees 17-5 to close to within a half-game of New York for first place in the American League East. The Orioles, who begin a three-game road series against the Houston Astros on Friday, recorded a season high in runs and hits