Olson lasted only 2 2-3 innings, giving up six runs and eight hits as the Orioles lost for just the third time in 11 games.

“I got ahead on a lot of guys with two strikes and just didn’t put them away,” Olson said. “Kind of left the ball up in the zone and when you do that, they’re going to make you pay for it.”

Baltimore third baseman Melvin Mora left with a bruise and cut on his right ring finger after he was accidentally spiked by Hideki Matsui while trying to catch a third-inning throw from the outfield. X-rays were negative, and Mora is day-to-day.

Johnny Damon hit a two-run single and Robinson Cano had an RBI double for New York, which built a 6-0 cushion after three and improved to 5-9 against left-handed starters this season.

The Yankees (21-25) looked more like themselves than they have in a while, working the count and aggressively taking extra bases.

Derek Jeter played with a bruised left hand after leaving Tuesday night’s game when he was hit by a pitch. He hit an RBI groundout in a three-run second and later scored on Rodriguez’s second double, which should have been ruled a home run.

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A-Rod hit a drive that struck the yellow staircase between the fence and bleachers in right-center. The ball caromed back onto the field and was ruled in play, but Rodriguez and Yankees manager Joe Girardi protested. The umpires huddled and upheld the call, as TV replays showed the ball clearing the wall.

Notes: Baltimore RF Nick Markakis singled twice and has reached base safely in 40 of 45 games. ... Yankees ace Chien-Ming Wang went for an MRI exam. He has a mild strain of his right calf but is expected to make his next scheduled start Saturday against Seattle. ... New York 3B coach Bobby Meacham missed his second consecutive game to attend his son’s high school graduation. First base coach Tony Pena was at third again, while Mitch Seone filled in at first.

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