Rickard optioned to Norfolk (updated)

CLEVELAND - The Orioles threw a curveball more than four hours after their game ended.

Joey Rickard has been optioned to Triple-A Norfolk, which creates an opening on the 25-man roster for Adam Jones' return from the bereavement list. Jones is supposed to join the team later tonight in Toronto.

The surprising element involves Mark Trumbo, who is expected to be placed on the disabled list Monday with inflammation in his right knee. Trumbo's removal from the roster would have cleared a spot for Jones.

Another move is forthcoming, so stay tuned.

Rickard came off the bench today and singled to lead off the ninth inning. He's batting .227/.228/.420 with six doubles, a triple, seven home runs and 21 RBIs in 59 games. He's posted a .462 average with three home runs and 15 RBIs in eight games against the Rays, his former organization before the Orioles selected him in the Rule 5 draft.

The Orioles chose to hold onto veteran outfielder Craig Gentry, who came off the disabled list Friday as Jones' replacement.

Gentry is out of minor league options and would have needed to pass through waivers and accept an outright assignment to Triple-A Norfolk.

Rickard can return after rosters expand on Sept. 1.

Team orthopedic specialist Dr. Michael Jacobs will examine Trumbo's knee on Monday. Trumbo is expected to undergo an MRI, and a second trip to the disabled list is the likely outcome.

Trumbo began the season on the DL with a strained right quadriceps muscle. The knee has bothered him since May.

Update: Outfielder John Andreoli, claimed off waivers Saturday from the Mariners, is expected to be in Toronto in case Trumbo goes on the disabled list.