Health issues and the catching situation

SARASOTA, Fla. - The Orioles aren't in panic mode over the shoulder discomfort, or whatever we're calling it, that could force No. 1 starter Chris Tillman on the disabled list. They're continuing to breathe normally through a series of tests administered to shortstop J.J. Hardy's back, the spasms keeping him from participating in workouts.

They haven't made it through one full week of camp and already their faith is being tested.

A veteran starter has been part of their offseason wish list and it seems more important with Tillman unable to throw off a mound. They seem satisfied with their alternatives to Hardy, though the mindset could change if the spasms morph into something more serious.

Manny Machado's inclusion on the Dominican Republic roster for the World Baseball Classic isn't ideal timing, but Hardy could be playing soon after the Platinum Glove winner departs Sarasota.

The situation highlights Ryan Flaherty's value to the organization, a guy who's trusted at all four infield positions. Johnny Giavotella, Robert Andino and Chris Johnson provide infield depth in camp and it's a short drive from the minor league complex to Ed Smith Stadium.

As I wrote yesterday, the Orioles haven't reached out to veteran infielder Paul Janish. He remains a free agent.

Meanwhile, the Orioles seem to have an excess of catching after Francisco Pena cleared waivers. How does five go into two?

Welington Castillo is the starter and Pena is battling Caleb Joseph for the backup job, his removal from the 40-man roster apparently not impacting the competition. The camp roster also includes Audry Perez, a plus-defender who batted .291/.343/.386 last year in 84 games at Triple-A Norfolk, and top prospect Chance Sisco.

This is where we get five into two. Five catchers for two levels of the organization - the Orioles and their top affiliate.

Would the Orioles carry three catchers at Norfolk, or is it possible that Sisco gets the Trey Mancini treatment and begins the season at Double-A Bowie? Mancini appeared in 17 games with the Baysox last year, batting .302/.413/.698 with seven home runs, before the Orioles made room for him at Norfolk.

Austin Wynns, 26, isn't expected to report to camp until next month due to an ankle injury, but Showalter sounded optimistic that it wouldn't be as late as projected. It was a high sprain, the ankle didn't discolor and X-rays were clean.

Wynns probably will catch at Bowie this summer. His stock is on the rise.