Talking about Gonzalez, VandenHurk and more

The Yankees also were involved in trade talks with the Orioles for left-hander Michael Gonzalez, but president of baseball operations Andy MacPhail preferred the pitcher coming back from the Rangers. It's a player to be named later, which means I don't have a name right now. The Orioles knew last night that Gonzalez was going to Texas, which made him unavailable for their 10-inning game against the Blue Jays. The Orioles have two openings on their 40-man roster after trading Gonzalez and outrighting pitchers Mike Ballard (no relation to Jeff, for everyone who keeps asking) and Mitch Atkins. Rick VandenHurk will fill one of those spots. He's scheduled to start tonight for Triple-A Norfolk, but look for him to be scratched. Catcher Matt Wieters had some cramping in his quadriceps last night. He's available tonight, but manager Buck Showalter is saving him for tomorrow's 12:35 p.m. game. Jason Berken (elbow) will report to the minor league complex in Sarasota on Friday. The Orioles want him pitching on Sept. 8, though they're not sure where it will happen. He could join an affiliate during the playoffs. Single-A Frederick is guaranteed a spot. Double-A Bowie is trying to clinch. Cesar Izturis (groin) isn't progressing as fast as the Orioles hoped. He ran yesterday and apparently is sore today. The club still expects to activate him from the disabled list next month. Chris Davis (shoulder) could begin a brief injury rehab assignment Sunday or Monday. Frank Robinson is 76 today. For the Blue Jays: Yunel Escobar SS Eric Thames LF Jose Bautista RF Adam Lind 1B Edwin Encarnacion DH Kelly Johnson 2B Brett Lawrie 3B Jose Molina C Mike McCoy CF Henderson Alvarez RHP