Alfredo Simon reported to Single-A Frederick today, but manager Buck Showalter told reporters that it's "more likely than less likely" that the reliever is activated from the disabled list before tomorrow night's game against the Cardinals.
Showalter said the club will make a decision early tomorrow afternoon whether Simon pitches for the Keys or comes off the disabled list. Look for Simon to join the 25-man roster.
The Orioles haven't ruled out making Simon a starter down the road, but right now they need him in the bullpen.
Showalter won't confirm whether a pitcher will be sent down to make room for Simon. He didn't want guys in the clubhouse to hear his comments and stress over their immediate futures.
It appears that Showalter will keep outfielder Nolan Reimold on the roster despite limited playing time. The Orioles optioned second baseman Ryan Adams because they didn't want him sitting on the bench most nights, but Reimold has previous major league experience and "gets the jump in the levels of play," Showalter said. Also, there aren't as many candidates available to replace Reimold.
Showalter also told reporters that he likes having Reimold available when the Orioles return to a National League ballpark with this weekend's trip to Atlanta.
Showalter said the club could "make an adjustment at some point" if it doesn't get more production from the cleanup spot. Vladimir Guerrero has filled it for most of the season, except when the Orioles played under NL rules.
The Orioles' designated hitters have one home run in their last 24 games, a total of 95 at-bats since May 22.
Jake Arrieta remains scheduled to start Saturday night in Atlanta. He could have pitched tomorrow, as originally planned, but the Orioles are being cautious with him. They want to make sure he can still pitch in September.
Double-A Bowie announced a bunch of roster moves. Left-hander Nick Bierbrodt and infielder Carlos Rojas were transferred to Triple-A Norfolk, and pitcher Pat Egan and outfielder Kyle Hudson were transferred to Bowie. Baysox infielder Billy Rowell was placed on the seven-day disabled list, retroactive to Sunday, with an undisclosed injury. Reliever Eddie Gamboa came off the DL.
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