Early notes from Camden Yards (Vielma optioned)

The Orioles will announce their corresponding roster move for second baseman Jonathan Schoop after batting practice. They want to make certain that Schoop doesn't have any setbacks in his recovery from an oblique injury.

Infielder Engelb Vielma is expected to be optioned to Triple-A Norfolk to make room for Schoop, who's batting cleanup tonight.

Update: Vielma was optioned.

It should benefit the Orioles to have Schoop directly behind Manny Machado, who needs better protection in the lineup.

Manager Buck Showalter adjusted the rotation and is starting Chris Tillman in Thursday's series finale against the Royals instead of waiting until Saturday's doubleheader against the Rays.

Showalter wants to give Kevin Gausman an extra day of rest after the right-hander threw nine scoreless innings in his last start.

The Orioles will start Alex Cobb in Game 2 of the doubleheader. Keeping everyone on turn likely would have left Tillman and a minor league call-up for Saturday's game.

The Game 1 starter could come from the bullpen or down on the farm. Mike Wright Jr. is a candidate.

The Orioles will get a 26th player for the doubleheader. He can't be sent down after Game 1, but another player can be swapped out. David Hess, who carried a no-hitter into the seventh inning today at Norfolk, could be used in relief.

Closer Zach Britton performed more fielding drills today and remains scheduled to throw batting practice on May 15.

Third baseman Tim Beckham feels much better after his core muscle surgery and is doing yoga exercises three times a week.

Outfielder Colby Rasmus, on the disabled list with a hip injury, will start game progressions on March 15.

Infielder Ryan Mountcastle is expected to report to Double-A Bowie on Thursday or Friday now that he's recovered from a hairline fracture in his right hand.

For the Royals
Jon Jay LF
Jorge Soler RF
Mike Moustakas 3B
Salvador Perez C
Lucas Duda 1B
Whit Merrifield DH
Alex Gordon CF
Alcides Escobar SS
Ryan Goins 2B

Danny Duffy LHP