Colby Rasmus in Monday's starting lineup

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Outfielder Colby Rasmus will make his Orioles debut Monday afternoon against the Tigers in Sarasota. Rasmus will play right field.

"I had a good talk with him a couple days ago," said manager Buck Showalter. "I told him if he doesn't think so, I could wait until Wednesday, but that's what he wanted to do."

Showalter views Rasmus as a platoon player at this point in camp. Rasmus is a career .211/.290/.366 hitter against left-handed pitching.

"I think, looking at the whole picture," Showalter said, "it probably best fits what he's able to bring."

Hunter Harvey will make his first spring start Tuesday afternoon against the Rays in Port Charlotte. Miguel Castro, scratched from today's start with soreness in his knees and lower back, will be worked into the rotation after Tuesday's bullpen session.

Jesus Liranzo has been slow-played in camp, but he threw batting practice today and is nearing his first relief appearance. Manny Machado and Mark Trumbo took their swings against Liranzo.

"That went well. He's ready to go," Showalter said.

Rule 5 pick José Mesa Jr. and left-hander Jayson Aquino are scheduled to throw two innings today. Michael Kelly and Perci Garner could go one or two.

Showalter said it's a mathematical possibility that the Orioles could carry all three Rule 5 pitchers on opening day, "but it's a challenge to carry three guys unproven at a high level. You'd have to feel really good about your projection and their ability to survive at that level in that division." Showalter also said Rule 5 status isn't necessarily a tiebreaker.

The Orioles likely will bring seven relievers north for opening day.

Closer Zach Britton continues to play catch every other day without discomfort following surgery on his right Achilles.

"I think he intentionally cuts the limp down when he comes by my office," Showalter said.

Showalter said he views Asher Wojciechowski has more of a reliever than starter, but the right-hander is capable of handling both roles.

Showalter also said catcher Andrew Susac is "real close" to playing in games. Susac has been working out the past two days.