BALTIMORE — Setting the American League record for consecutive saves converted requires a remarkable display of consistency.
Patience also played a part for Zach Britton, because the Baltimore Orioles closer went more than 14 weeks this season between tying the mark and breaking it.
Britton converted his 55th straight save opportunity Sunday, blanking the Houston Astros in the ninth inning to seal Baltimore's 9-7 victory.
He struck out the first two batters and issued a walk before pinch-hitter George Springer bounced into a force play to end it.
"I never thought I could put together something like that at this level, with how good these guys are," the left-hander said.