SARASOTA, Fla. - We had thunderstorms overnight and the fields are soaked. No idea whether the Orioles will play today, since the forecast today calls for more rain. It's clearing right now - I see blue sky - but that could change.
Still no lineup posted, but David Riske, Rick VandenHurk and Randy Winn have been eliminated from the camp roster. More cuts are coming, but those three are confirmed.
Riske and VandenHurk apparently left last night. VandenHurk is out of options, so he would have to clear waivers before the Orioles could assign him to Triple-A Norfolk.
No word on whether Riske will stay in the organization, but manager Buck Showalter really likes him. He praised Riske after every appearance.
We've gone over the other veterans who aren't making the club (Nick Green and Brendan Harris). You can't like Ryan Drese's chances, either. Also, Justin Duchscherer will begin the season on the disabled list.
We're assuming that Brad Bergesen will join Jeremy Guthrie, Brian Matusz and Jake Arrieta in the rotation if he's able to pitch Tuesday or Wednesday.
The biggest decision could be whether the Orioles carry eight relievers or five bench players. That's an important consideration for guys like Josh Rupe, Clay Rapada, Mark Hendrickson, Robert Andino and Craig Tatum.
Jake Fox figures to be the backup catcher or extra utility infielder.
Update: Drese is among the cuts, too. Drese is expected to accept an assignment to Triple-A Norfolk.
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