Britton ready to resume throwing on Monday (and other notes)

Orioles closer Zach Britton could start throwing again on Monday after seeing a hand specialist in the morning.

Britton said his arm feels great and he was happy with the results of the MRI. He no longer has any discomfort in his forearm and wants to throw today, but the Orioles will make him wait a few more days.

Chris Tillman's next rehab start after tonight will be Thursday with Single-A Frederick at Potomac. The Orioles won't need a fifth starter again until May 2, and Tillman could fill that role.

Outfielder Joey Rickard took live batting practice today after hitting soft toss and didn't feel any discomfort in his left middle finger. He'll take BP again on Sunday and start an injury rehab assignment the following day that may only last a couple of games.

Outfielder Seth Smith is available to pinch-hit tonight, but he still has some tightness in his right hamstring.

Outfielder Michael Bourn is close to playing in extended spring training games as he recovers from a broken right ring finger. He's working out in Sarasota.

Rule 5 pick Anthony Santander, on the disabled list with a sore elbow, is throwing to all bases at extended spring training and is close to playing.

The Orioles really want to keep him in the organization, but will be challenged to get him into enough games to remove his Rule 5 status. They discussed moving him to the 60-day disabled list to create a spot on the 40-man, but believe he will be ready to play before that period expires.

Pitcher Steve Johnson, currently at extended spring training, will report to Triple-A Norfolk on Tuesday.

Showalter sounded confident that the game will be played tonight. The Orioles will do everything possible to avoid a postponement.

Showalter is annoyed that some members of the Boston media suggested third baseman Manny Machado should be hit as retaliation for last night's slide into Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia. He also noted, as have so many others, that there's little controversy if Machado wasn't the player involved.