Roberts remains shut down

By Roch Kubatko

Orioles

June 07, 2011, 2:11pm

Comments

Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts won't be cleared to begin baseball-related activities for at least two more weeks after being reexamined today by Dr. Michael Collins, a concussion specialist based in Pittsburgh. Roberts reported that he's feeling a little better, and he could begin light activities, such as cardiovascular exercises, during this two-week period. "I wouldn't call it bad news," manager Buck Showalter said. "We knew the process and precautions that we have." Roberts hasn't played since diving into first base during the first inning of a May 16 game in Boston. Showalter left open the possibility that Roberts could return to the active roster before the All-Star break that begins July 11. Roberts will visit Collins again within these two weeks. Also, the medical reports on Justin Duchscherer state that he left today's extended spring training game three pitches after fielding a bunt in the third inning and experiencing spasms in his gluteus. He's also been treated for discomfort in his hip and back since signing with the Orioles. Brandon Erbe, the former third-round pick out of McDonough who underwent labrum surgery in August, was scratched from a simulated game in Sarasota because he couldn't get his right arm loose.