Making room for Pie

Good morning. I'll be stepping away from my laptop, and this blog, more than usual this week as I continue to make the gradual move into my townhouse. The new place is empty, but I've got my rental through the end of the month. The new one is pretty much within walking distance of my current residence, if I was motivated, but I find it easier to load up my car for the short drive. The professional movers arrive Thursday morning, but I'm trying to leave behind as little as possible before they get here. I've got boxes everywhere, and I haven't even touched the upstairs yet. I've also run out of boxes. Anyway, I'll keep the blog active, but it won't hold as much of my attention as usual. My apologies in advance. Interim manager Juan Samuel told reporters that Felix Pie will begin an injury rehab assignment this week. He's supposed to play in the Gulf Coast League today or tomorrow and eventually make it to one of the in-state affiliates. Single-A Frederick is home beginning Thursday. Double-A Bowie is on the road until next Monday. Short-season Single-A Aberdeen is on the road until Saturday. Go with the Keys. As you'll recall during my visit to Sarasota last month, Pie stood at his locker at Ed Smith Stadium and told me that he should be ready to play by June 20 or 25. It was an interesting timeline, with the gap in the middle. I thought it would take longer, since Pie's dealing with a torn muscle in his back, but it's the 21st and he's reporting to an affiliate. It's conceivable that he'll rejoin the Orioles during the first week of July, which will alter the outfield picture. Lou Montanez pinch-hit for Jake Arrieta yesterday, reminding us that Lou Montanez is still on the roster. I count one start, and nine at-bats, since May 27. He's the logical candidate to be sent down once Pie's ready, though, as I pointed out to a reader yesterday, the Orioles would lean heavily to the left. Adam Jones would be the only right-handed hitting outfielder. Maybe it doesn't matter, but it's worth noting. Pie could bump Corey Patterson from left field and atop the order, his latest opportunity to establish himself as an everyday player. He's hitting .400, but in only eight games. He's out of minor league options, but not chances. Not yet, anyway.