A few reviews are in

Chris Tillman's first major league start gets some attention in Baltimore.

Tillman's debut not so smooth
Rookie pitcher shows promise but allows 3 homers in 4 2/3 innings

Chris Tillman's night began with a torrential downpour that delayed his first major league pitch, and it ended with a standing ovation from the Camden Yards crowd. The reason for the reception was more about what Tillman might bring to the Orioles in the future and not what he was able to deliver Wednesday night.

Tillman, the 21-year-old right-hander, got a rocky introduction to the major leagues, alllowing three solo homers and lasting just 4 2/3 innings against the Kansas City Royals. But the night was not without glimpses of the promise that made Tillman the organization's most prized pitching prospect, and has fans so excited about the days ahead. And it was also not without a much-needed win for the home team, which finally found some elusive hits with runners in scoring position.

Reaction from the rookie.

"That was pretty special," said Tillman, who was acquired last February from the Seattle Mariners in the Erik Bedard deal. "It feels good. I've heard a lot about these fans here. … I was kind of disappointed at the time with the way the game turned out. Obviously, it was the first time I've had an ovation like that. Other than that, I really [didn't] know what to think."

All-Star center fielder Adam Jones, also acquired in the Bedard deal - which is looking better every day - hit a two-run homer in the first off Greinke, the third straight game he has connected for a first-inning homer. Jones tied the score in the seventh with an RBI double off the scoreboard in right. Nick Markakis followed with a go-ahead two-run single, and he and Aubrey Huff added RBI hits in the eighth.

Bedard deal? Oh, right. That's how they got him.

From Connolly's Corner Sports Bar

Chris Tillman’s first start is in the books.

Here’s a bet: He will have better outings in his Orioles’ career.

The 21-year-old super prospect struggled some, allowing three home runs, including two solo shots in the second inning. He’s entitled. He had to be pretty nervous Wednesday.