Dariel Álvarez agrees to start pitching program (and more notes)

SARASOTA, Fla. - Orioles outfielder Dariel Álvarez has agreed to try his hand at pitching and will begin a program at the minor league complex.

The Orioles optioned Álvarez yesterday to Triple-A Norfolk in order to start the process of converting him into a reliever.

Álvarez, who pitched for parts of three seasons in Cuba, also will be used as a designated hitter in order to keep him engaged offensively and allow him to continue playing winter ball.

The Orioles hope that Álvarez will be ready to pitch in games later this spring. They plan on assigning him to a full-season minor league affiliate, with Single-A Frederick one possibility.

If the transition goes smoothly, Álvarez could challenge for a spot on the pitching staff next year.

Shortstop J.J. Hardy has been cleared to begin full baseball activities on Friday as long as he doesn't have any setbacks this week.

Chris Tillman and Zach Britton threw bullpen sessions today that went extremely well, according to manager Buck Showalter. Britton could pitch in his first spring game later this week.

Outfielder Michael Bourn has an appointment Friday with a hand specialist, but he's still not expected to play before mid-April after breaking the ring finger on his right hand.

The Orioles will make four or five roster cuts today.

Gabriel Ynoa isn't available today because he warmed up yesterday for the Dominican Republic after the Orioles loaned him to the World Baseball Classic team. The DR wanted him today in Bradenton for its game against the Pirates, but the Orioles declined the request.

The Orioles sent Frederick pitcher Luis Gonzalez to Bradenton so he could join the Dominican team for the day as an extra reliever.

Minor league infielder Garabez Rosa still isn't available after being hit on the right hand. He's usually part of the travel roster.