Bleier expected to undergo surgery (and other notes)

Surgery has been recommended for Orioles reliever Richard Bleier, who will make his decision after receiving a second opinion. He isn't expected to pitch again this season and his availability for spring training could be in jeopardy.

Bleier strained the lat muscle on his left side and its severity brought about the likelihood of a surgical procedure to repair it.

Manager Buck Showalter confirmed today that surgery is a consideration and Bleier isn't expected to get back on the mound in 2018.

Chris Davis remains out of the lineup and Showalter said a return isn't imminent.

Showalter said Davis is working on some things and he's waiting until the first baseman feels ready to play again. Showalter added that he doesn't expect Davis' absence from the lineup to last "a week or two."

Andrew Cashner will throw a bullpen session on Sunday and could come off the disabled list as early as Tuesday night in D.C. However, Showalter said Cashner might be held back until Wednesday or Thursday.

Davis Hess will be available out of the bullpen Saturday afternoon. He isn't needed in the rotation with off-days yesterday and Monday.

Yefry Ramirez likely will start Tuesday for Triple-A Norfolk after being optioned today.

Third baseman Tim Beckham starts his injury rehab assignment tonight at Double-A Bowie. He could come off the disabled list on June 23.

"It's been a long road for Tim," Showalter said over the weekend. "I think he's really going to find out and we're going to find out some of the challenges he had related to this stuff that finally got repaired that he's had for quite a while. Even before we got him, it's been a challenge. I'm sure the turf didn't help. Of course, he played on dirt mostly."

The Orioles signed three more selections from the 2018 First-Year Player Draft: pitcher Ryan Conroy (eighth round), outfielder Andrew Jayne (19th) and outfielder Trey Whitley (28th). They've now signed 20 selections.

For the Marlins
Derek Dietrich 1B
Brian Anderson RF
J.T. Realmuto C
Justin Bour DH
Starlin Castro 2B
JT Riddle SS
Lewis Brinson CF
Miguel Rojas 3B
JB Shuck LF

Jose Urena RHP