Gentry sidelined with hamstring injury (and other notes)

SARASOTA, Fla. - Veteran outfielder Craig Gentry injured his hamstring yesterday in Fort Myers and his return isn't imminent.

"Could be a little issue for us for a little while, I think," said manager Buck Showalter.

"We took him out yesterday. He told the trainer he kind of felt it tighten a little bit on the ball he dove for in center field, and the last time he ran the bases, same thing, so we got him out there an inning earlier. He's got some soreness today, so it might be a little while."

The news is more promising on pitcher Miguel Castro, who threw a bullpen session after being scratched from yesterday's start with tendinitis in both knees and soreness in his lower back. He's scheduled to pitch in Friday morning's B game against the Pirates.

Pedro Álvarez worked out at first base this morning and took batting practice after signing his minor league contract. Showalter will check with Álvarez before writing his name into the lineup, "but I'd say it will be within a week."

Showalter also said he expects outfielder Austin Hays to be fine after serving yesterday as the designated hitter. Hays hadn't played due to a sore lat muscle.

Outfielder Jaycob Brugman could get some at-bats soon after clearing waivers and returning to the clubhouse.

"I'm going to talk to him today and find out what his thoughts are, find out exactly what he's been doing," Showalter said, "but I'd like to get him back in the mix."

Colby Rasmus is making his Orioles debut as the right fielder. He's batting first, but not necessarily because the club envisions him as a leadoff hitter.

"Trying to get him some at-bats, but you can read into it whatever you want to," Showalter said. "Just trying to get him as many at-bats as we can early, get him out of the game."

The Orioles value Rasmus' defense and chose him over other free agent outfielders who bat from the left side, knowing he can be trusted at the corners and backing up Adam Jones in center.

"I know what he's been like out there," Showalter said. "I know he takes a lot of pride in his defense. When we had our conversation when he got here, something he kept hitting ... he wants to know, 'What have I got to do to make the club?' Well, here it is. And I'd be surprised if he doesn't bring that."

Jesus Liranzo is close to making his first relief appearance of the spring. The Orioles have been cautious with him mainly because of past shoulder soreness.

"Some of the things he had last year that kept him out," Showalter said. "They put a program together. They wanted to kind of slow-play him early, but he's ready to get back in the mix now. They just wanted to make sure that everything ... I think it was more shoulder."

The Orioles won't judge Rule 5 pick José Mesa Jr. harshly after yesterday's poor outing against the Red Sox, when he allowed back-to-back home runs, walked three batters, uncorked a wild pitch and lasted only two-thirds of an inning.

"When we got back yesterday, we looked up all our reports on him again," Showalter said. "That was a little break from normal."

Cuts may be coming soon with 64 players in camp.

"That would be a good question for Dan (Duquette)," Showalter said. "I'm ready, but I don't know. I was planning on speaking to him today about what his thoughts are.

"Some guys you can't send out until the 9th, first time on the (40-man) roster. It's the same as the Rule 5 guys. There's six or seven of those guys. Guys like (David) Hess."