Updates on Norris, Wieters, Johnson and Urrutia

The storm is approaching Camden Yards and the grounds crew has just placed the tarp on the infield.

The Orioles and Rangers have one common off-day if tonight's game is rained out - Aug. 21 during a break in the Orioles' series against the White Sox and Cubs in Chicago.

How convenient.

The Orioles would have to play 27 consecutive days without a break, which I'm pretty sure would be an issue with the union.

The forecast in Boston on Friday isn't promising. Lots of rain.

If tonight's game is played - and there's always a window - the Rangers may scratch Yu Darvish and start Scott Baker. They don't want to waste Darvish if the game is interrupted by rain.

A win tonight would move the Orioles seven games above .500 for the first time this season.

Bud Norris is doing pitchers' fielding drills this afternoon and will throw a bullpen session or pitch a simulated game on Friday. Showalter said it's still possible for Norris, on the disabled list with a strained right groin, to be activated and start Monday against the Nationals in D.C.

Showalter will consult with the athletic training staff, as well as pitching coach Dave Wallace and bullpen coach Dom Chiti. He also will check with Norris, but he knows how the right-hander is going to vote.

"It's up to Buck when he wants to try to get me back out there," Norris said. "I just want to get healthy, which is how I feel. I threw yesterday and it went well, and whenever I get back on a game mound, whether it be a rehab start or whatever, I'll be ready. But whatever Buck decides is up to Buck."

Norris said Monday is a possibility "if everything goes well today."

"So far, I haven't felt anything since. I'm feeling better day by day. But what decision's got to be made is out of my hands."

Matt Wieters will join the club during the next homestand from July 9-13 before the All-Star break. Showalter and Wieters have been exchanging text messages, and the catcher doesn't want to be separated from the Orioles for an extended period.

Steve Johnson, on the disabled list with right shoulder tendinitis, will pitch two innings Saturday with the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League team before moving up to a higher affiliate.

Outfielder Henry Urrutia, recovering from sports hernia surgery, will begin a rehab assignment next week.

Infielder Alexi Casilla underwent surgery in Sarasota to remove a broken hamate bone.

Tommy Hunter is celebrating his 28th birthday today.