Simon says... (updated)

Alfredo Simon will throw another bullpen session today instead of pitching in a simulated game. Simon tested his left hamstring by throwing two bullpen sessions in Sarasota before flying into Baltimore yesterday. "It feels a lot better," he said. "I'm just trying to come back and do what I was doing before, trying to help the team win." Simon could be activated from the disabled list tomorrow, when the Orioles begin their interleague series in San Francisco. "I'm ready," he said. Simon doesn't care that he hasn't faced hitters in a while. "I'm not having a problem throwing strikes. Nothing like that," he said. "We'll see what happens." Update: Change of plans: Simon is throwing about 20 pitches in a batting practice session. If his hamstring holds up, he'll be activated for tomorrow night's game. However, he won't be available to pitch until Tuesday. Interim manager Juan Samuel repeated that he expects Simon to close, but David Hernandez to take over those duties when Simon isn't available. Of course, it's not often that the Orioles have a lead in the ninth inning. As for the corresponding roster move, Samuel wants to keep an extra position player for double-switches, so Lou Montanez is safe. Samuel also mentioned how he likes having Frank Mata at the back end of the bullpen, though he stopped short of guaranteeing the right-hander a roster spot. "I always like guys who throw hard," he said. Perhaps the decision comes down to Brad Bergesen (optioned) or Matt Albers (designated).