Orioles roster remains in a calm state (with a few notes)

Almost a week has passed since the Orioles made a roster move, and it was done only because of a traditional doubleheader that allowed for a 26th player. Outfielder Anthony Santander joined the club Wednesday in Chicago, homered in Game 2 and returned to Triple-A Norfolk.

The Orioles haven't shaken up the roster for other reasons since they recalled reliever Yefry Ramirez from Norfolk on April 29 to fill the vacancy created by pitcher Luis Ortiz, optioned left-hander Tanner Scott after the game and added reliever Shawn Armstrong the following day.

The smoke doesn't often have time to clear.

Manager Brandon Hyde appreciates a flexible roster that allows for such movement, but he'll gladly take a peaceful, stagnant stretch. Run with the same horses - no disqualifications - and not be influenced by injuries or ineffectiveness.

"No transaction today," he said yesterday with a chuckle.

"We're going to have a lot of movement this year. That's just going to happen when you have a roster like this and you're in a situation like we are."

Hyde won't use the word "rebuild," but you know the situation.

"And that's not a bad thing, either," he continued. "We're going to get fresh bodies in here, we're going to look at a lot of guys and guys are going to get big league opportunities, so it's a good situation for everybody and we hope that some guys take it and run with it."

The four Orioles on the injured list won't be back anytime soon. Corresponding roster moves for them remain on hold.

Richard Bleier begins his injury rehab assignment tonight at Single-A Frederick and expects to need at least six appearances in the minors before he's activated. He's going to pitch for the top three affiliates.

Nate Karns received a second opinion yesterday on his right forearm and actually was spotted in the clubhouse after the game.

If the news isn't grim, Karns will need to get back on a throwing progression and start pitching again in the minors.

Alex Cobb had his back and hip checked and is confined to throwing in order to keep his arm strong. No word on a bullpen session and rehab assignment.

Mark Trumbo is hitting in the cages in Sarasota, with Bleier providing an update yesterday. But he still isn't ready to play in games.

Meanwhile, the Orioles are 3-2 against the Red Sox to match last season's win total. There's some improvement for you.

Left-hander John Means has posted a 1.37 ERA in 19 2/3 innings against the American League East this season.

Jonathan Villar is 7-for-21 with three doubles, a home run and six RBIs during a five-game hitting streak.

Stevie Wilkerson is 8-for-18 with a double, a home run and four RBIs during his five-game hitting streak.

Pedro Severino is 5-for-11 when leading off an inning.