The Rays have played 22 of their first 35 games on the road, going 10-12.

And they've played 22 games within the treacherous AL East, going 12-10, including 9-6 against the Red Sox and Yankees.

Starting Thursday against AL-worst Cleveland, they open a stretch of their schedule that at least in theory should be easier.

They play 20 of their next 31 at Tropicana Field and play 21 consecutive games -- and 39 of their next 43 -- against non-division opponents.

"We can't take any team lightly -- we're in the big leagues, we know that," first baseman Carlos Pena said. "But we also know how tough the AL East is. It's tough. We know that. We can't underestimate that ever.

"I'm not saying we're satisfied where we're at, because that would not be true. But we feel good about where we're going. That was a good way to end a road trip. It kind of sets good momentum going in the right direction. And then we just have to keep playing our game, so things should keep on improving gradually."

RAYS 8, ORIOLES 6: RHP Jeff Niemann gave the Rays an improved effort, working five innings and allowing only two runs, and their offense was effective though not efficient in scoring eight runs. B.J. Upton had three hits, and Dioner Navarro a clutch hit. The Rays hung on as Troy Percival made a mess of the ninth.