Orioles recall Yefry Ramirez

CHICAGO - The Orioles latest roster move involves another pitcher to be placed in their bullpen. However, it isn't Shawn Armstrong.

The club announced today that right-hander Yefry Ramirez has been recalled from Triple-A Norfolk. He's expected to be available in relief for tonight's series opener against the White Sox.

Ramirez has made four starts with Norfolk and posted a 1.50 ERA and 1.11 WHIP in 18 innings. Opponents are batting .177 against him.

A streak of 14 straight scoreless innings to begin the season ended in Ramirez's last outing on Thursday, when he allowed three earned runs (four total) and five hits in four innings with three walks and nine strikeouts. He surrendered home runs to Columbus' Oscar Mercado and Eric Haase.

Ramirez threw 89 pitches and would be working on short rest if used tonight.

The Orioles included Ramirez in their spring competition for rotation and bullpen spots, but he allowed seven runs and 12 hits in 12 1/3 innings. The 13 strikeouts were impressive, but he also surrendered five home runs.

Ramirez was optioned to Norfolk on March 17, when the Orioles made eight cuts. The departures of outfielders Austin Hays and Anthony Santander drew much more attention.

In 17 appearances last season, Ramirez went 1-8 with a 5.92 ERA and 1.531 WHIP in 65 1/3 innings. He made 12 starts, with his major league debut coming on June 13.

The Orioles claimed Armstrong off waivers yesterday from the Mariners, but they haven't confirmed when he's going on the 25-man roster. An opening was created after they optioned pitcher Luis Ortiz to Norfolk following a 4-1 loss to the Twins, but Ramirez has filled it.

Armstrong took the 40-man spot vacated by catcher Jesús Sucre, who was designated for assignment.

Ramirez could be a temporary move until Armstrong reports to the Orioles. Manager Brandon Hyde will provide more information later today.

Meanwhile, the White Sox no longer are listing TBD for Wednesday night's start. The assignment goes to left-hander Carlos Rodón.

The Orioles are starting left-hander John Means tonight, Andrew Cashner Tuesday and David Hess Wednesday.