Quick updates on Matusz, Simon and Hardy

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

May 04, 2011, 11:46am

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I just chose the order at random. Brian Matusz threw a bullpen session and live batting practice today at Twins Lakes Park in Sarasota. Matusz felt strong and had good command of his fastball. He also threw some breaking balls. Matusz threw 30 pitches in the bullpen and 20 more to live hitters. He'll start Saturday's extended spring training game. The Orioles confirmed via a press release that Alfredo Simon will start tomorrow for Double-A Bowie. The Baysox are hosting Harrisburg at Prince George's Stadium. "Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association have reached an agreement to allow Alfredo Simon to go on a rehab assignment beginning with tomorrow's game in Bowie," president of baseball operations Andy MacPhail said in a statement. Simon will likely go six innings if his pitch count allows it. Shortstop J.J. Hardy took batting practice today in Sarasota. He's still scheduled to begin his injury rehab assignment Friday at Triple-A Norfolk or Single-A Frederick, and could be activated from the disabled list next week. The Orioles are expected to go back to a 12-man pitching staff when Hardy returns, giving them an extra bench player.