How will the Orioles create spots for their returning pitchers?

The Orioles apparently are determined to make up for lost time after going 15 games without changing their opening day roster.

Yovani Gallardo is expected to land on the disabled list after returning to Baltimore and undergoing an examination of his right shoulder. It would be a shock if he's simply day-to-day or pushed back one start after leaving last night's game before the bottom of the third inning.

Gallardo told reporters in Kansas City that his shoulder "just didn't feel right." He didn't leave a whole lot of room for optimism.

"To be honest, it was one of those feelings that I've never had my whole career," he said. "I've never had any issues with my shoulder and I hadn't been. For some reason, in the bullpen, it just didn't feel right.

"I wasn't able to extend to get that release point. I think that's why the ball was just up and all over the place. Felt like the ball was coming out of my hand and the strength wasn't there. Hopefully, it wasn't anything serious. I'll go back to Baltimore to see a doctor and we'll go from there."

Left-hander Brian Matusz is coming off the disabled list before tonight's game at Kauffman Stadium. The Orioles could open a spot on the roster by putting Gallardo on the disabled list or optioning left-hander T.J. McFarland following last night's five-inning stint.

It basically would be paper move. McFarland won't be available for a few days and he could be recalled if Gallardo goes on the DL early next week. He wouldn't need to stay down for a minimum of 10 days if replacing an injured player.

McFarland wouldn't have to report to Triple-A Norfolk. You know how it works. Stay close, lay low and be ready to come back into the clubhouse on short notice.

Kevin Gausman will be activated on Monday to start the opener of a three-game series against the Rays at Tropicana Field. Another pitcher must come off the roster.

It could be Tyler Wilson after tonight's start against the Royals or it could be Mike Wright after Sunday's start to close the series. They have minor league options.

Predicting the outcome is a dangerous game, the latest reminder coming with the news that Wilson is starting tonight and Vance Worley is pitching out of the bullpen. Worley was the assumed starter, but you know what happens when you assume.