Flaherty told he's made club

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

March 25, 2014, 9:01am

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FORT MYERS, Fla. - Orioles manager Buck Showalter informed infielder Ryan Flaherty that he's heading north with the team after it breaks camp this weekend. Flaherty could start at third base in Manny Machado's absence. Showalter hasn't revealed his plans for opening day. Wei-Yin Chen will start the third game on April 3 against the Red Sox at Camden Yards. Showalter is deciding on the order for Miguel Gonzalez and Bud Norris, who will pitch in Detroit. Rule 5 pick Michael Almanzar had an MRI on his left knee yesterday and will be shut down for at least a few days. Showalter didn't offer any specifics beyond saying Almanzar won't need surgery. Almanzar could begin the season on the disabled list. Showalter will make cuts before both split-squad games on Wednesday. Mike Wright will start for the Orioles Saturday in Norfolk. The Tides will use Tyler Wilson, Zach Davies and Chris Petrini. Showalter is still debating whether to go with 12 or 13 pitchers. Showalter said he'll announce his closer, expected to be Tommy Hunter, within the next few days.