Orioles option Dariel Alvarez

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

March 29, 2016, 2:11pm

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SARASOTA, Fla. - The camp roster is down to 40 players.

The Orioles optioned outfielder Dariel Alvarez to Triple-A Norfolk before tonight's game against the Braves, a move that had been anticipated with Mark Trumbo penciled into right field and Rule 5 pick Joey Rickard assured of breaking camp with the team.

Dariel Alvarez swings white.jpg Alvarez, an intriguing prospect with a plus arm, collected only eight hits in 44 at-bats this spring. He had one double, one triple, two RBIs, three walks and seven strikeouts.

Alvarez will join a Norfolk outfield that now includes Christian Walker, a former first baseman who's changing positions. Henry Urrutia and Alfredo Marte already have been optioned, and Xavier Avery and L.J. Hoes could join them.

The crowd thickened with the signing of Julio Borbon, who currently is in minor league camp. Also, Joey Terdoslavich plays the outfield and first base.

The Orioles still have to eliminate 15 players from the camp roster. Kevin Gausman, Brian Matusz and Jimmy Paredes will go on the disabled list.

The roster includes seven non-roster invitees.

Meanwhile, tonight's game will start a few minutes late. Lineup cards are being exchanged at home plate.

The rain may return this evening, but the teams will play as many innings as the weather permits.