Wright remains option to join Orioles (updated again)

Mike Wright is still listed as Triple-A Norfolk's starter tonight against Syracuse, but he'll be scratched from the assignment while remaining an option for the Orioles on Friday.

Executive vice president Dan Duquette confirmed earlier today that Norfolk would send a different pitcher to the mound at Harbor Park.

The Orioles need to recall a pitcher to replace left-hander Jayson Aquino, who was optioned to Double-A Bowie following last night's 6-4, 14-inning win over the Dodgers in Los Angeles.

They also need a starter for Friday's series opener against the Angels at Camden Yards. Ubaldo Jimenez would be on turn, but he may be shifted to the bullpen again after another poor start Sunday against the Mariners.

"Mike Wright would be in line to return to the team," Duquette said. "He's not going to start where he is. He's under consideration to join our club tomorrow."

The Orioles are down to four starters in their rotation after optioning Tyler Wilson, who was added to Norfolk's roster earlier today, along with left-hander Ariel Miranda, who also was sent down during the road trip.

Wright is 3-4 with a 6.12 ERA in 13 games (12 starts) with the Orioles this year. He's registered a 1.500 WHIP in 64 2/3 innings.

While manager Buck Showalter has indicated that Wright would benefit from staying in Norfolk's rotation, the right-hander is pushing for another promotion by allowing two runs in 20 2/3 innings over his three starts with the Tides.

In Saturday's outing against Durham, Wright allowed three hits over 6 2/3 scoreless innings and walked only one batter. He'd be working on an extra days' rest if he gets the start on Friday.

The Orioles could announce the corresponding roster move for Aquino later tonight. Otherwise, they'll wait until Friday.

No matter the timing, Wright isn't starting tonight at Norfolk. Nick Additon could take his turn.

The Orioles' rotation ranks 28th in the majors with a 5.14 ERA in 456 2/3 innings. Only the Twins (5.33) and Reds (5.30) have been worse.

Duquette continues to check the market for starters to gauge whether there's a potential match as the non-waiver deadline approaches. He's also banking on better performances from pitchers already in the organization.

"We're looking around," Duquette said. "We need more consistent starting pitching. When I look in the book, I see a better record from some of the guys we have from the work they've done in the past and I'm hopeful that we'll get more consistent work in the second half of the season with some of our veteran pitchers.

"I'm encouraged by the progression of (Kevin) Gausman and (Dylan) Bundy."

Bundy struck out seven batters yesterday in 2 2/3 scoreless innings to lower his ERA to 3.08.

Will we see Bundy in the rotation at some point this season? Perhaps sooner rather than later?

"He looked pretty good yesterday," Duquette said, laughing. "We drafted and signed him to be a starter. It looks like there's an opportunity on this club."

It's when, not if.

"He was pretty impressive yesterday," Duquette said.

Updated: Wright is headed to Baltimore.

Update II: Pedro Alvarez has been reinstated from the bereavement list. He takes Dariel Alvarez's spot on the 25-man roster.