Barfield released from Norfolk roster

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

April 29, 2012, 6:12am

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The Orioles' lineup isn't posted yet and it's a slow morning, but I've got a small nugget of news. The Orioles released infielder/outfielder Josh Barfield from Triple-A Norfolk's roster to make room for pitcher Jason Berken, who was optioned after spending two days in Baltimore. Barfield, signed as minor league free agent in spring training, was 0-for-8 with a walk and three strikeouts in four games with the Tides. He's a career .264 hitter in parts of four major league seasons, most recently playing for the Indians in 2009. Berken didn't pitch for the Orioles after being recalled when second baseman Robert Andino went on paternity leave. The trick now is making room for all the starters at Norfolk. Berken joins Brad Bergesen, Chris Tillman, Dana Eveland and Steve Johnson. Plus, Joel Pineiro will debut with the Tides this week after pitching in an extended spring training game Thursday. By my count, that makes six. The Orioles view Pineiro as a possible long man out of their bullpen, something that's been lacking, but he'll start in Norfolk.