Random notes and quotes

The Orioles are enjoying the first of their five off-days this month, though a cross-country flight may not be everyone's idea of a perfect way to spend the afternoon. Scott Feldman figures to make his next start in San Francisco, unless manager Buck Showalter tweaks his rotation. Feldman will get to bat under National League rules, and he's not completely overmatched at the plate. Feldman is 9-for-52 with three doubles, a home run and nine RBIs in nine major league seasons. You don't want those numbers from your designated hitter - yeah, yeah, I know - but he's not an automatic out. Showalter claims that Feldman, a left-handed hitter, has launched balls onto Eutaw St. in batting practice. "He can hit a little bit," Showalter said. There were lots of conflicting reports as we approached the 4 p.m. non-waiver trade deadline, including the number of teams interested in Houston pitcher Bud Norris. The Braves absolutely were in on him before the Orioles swung a deal, according to an industry source. They made a late push and the Orioles won out. If you want to get on Showalter's good side, talk about the movie "Tombstone." One of his favorites. He lost me when he put down "Raging Bull," my favorite sports movie of all time. At least we can all agree that men are allowed to cry during "Brian's Song." Humorous moment from yesterday: Ryan Flaherty noticed that the Orioles placed Danny Valencia's locker next to his, with Nate McLouth beside Valencia. His only complaint, which he voiced in an exaggerated manner, was that it created more pressure on him to have good hair days. I suggested that Chris Davis relocate to that row and really mess with him. Speaking of Davis, Showalter mentioned again yesterday how much he appreciates Davis running hard out of the batter's box. "You watch him go down the line on routine ground balls?" Showalter asked. "It's impressive. I just want to hug him." Adam Jones was hit by a pitch yesterday for the fifth time this season, the second-most on the club. The leader? Davis with eight. It's what you know... Seattle first baseman Justin Smoak worked Wei-Yin Chen for 16 pitches yesterday during his fourth-inning at-bat, finally lining a single into left field. Pitching coach Rick Adair visited the mound, probably to allow Chen to catch his breath. The Orioles shortened up Kevin Gausman in his last start at Triple-A Norfolk, removing him after 68 pitches in five scoreless innings. They want to make sure he has enough innings left in his arm for September and, maybe, October. On the other hand, they also know that he won't be much use as a starter - if he's put back in the rotation - unless he's stretched out. The Tides already have six starters, and now they're adding Steve Johnson.