Updates on Zimmermann, Wells, Mountcastle, Kremer

The Orioles are going to adjust their rotation again by early next week.

Whenever left-hander Bruce Zimmermann is deemed ready to start again.

Zimmermann tossed five hitless innings last night at Triple-A Norfolk in his third injury rehab game and second with the Tides. The Orioles wanted to stretch him out a little more before reinstating him from the injured list.

"We're seeing how he recovers today and probably make that decision in the next day or two," said manager Brandon Hyde.

Asked about Zimmermann's role with the Orioles, Hyde said, "I think if he comes back we'll probably slide him into the rotation."

Left-hander Keegan Akin is likely to be impacted by Zimmermann's return after allowing six runs last night in three innings to raise his ERA to 8.23 with a 1.793 WHIP. The ERA is 9.57 and WHIP 2.045 in his nine starts.

Rule 5 reliever Tyler Wells is expected to be reinstated from the injured list before Thursday afternoon's game. The Orioles could option Akin and go with an extra bullpen arm until Zimmermann is back.

Ryan Mountcastle is eligible to return from the seven-day concussion list on Sunday but is expected to need a little more recovery time.

"He's getting better every day," Hyde said. "It's just one of those, that's an injury where you just have to take your time with and see how guys recover. He's better today than he was yesterday, so we'll see how he's recovering daily, start to ramp up the activity level. But I don't think it's going to be seven days."

Dean Kremer is starting tonight for Norfolk. He's made a few relief appearances, but there isn't a pending role change.

"For me, that was more of innings and piggybacking off a starter," Hyde said. "Cut his innings a little bit but also have a three- or four-inning stint out of the 'pen."

Kremer hasn't pitched for the Orioles since June 24. His latest demotion wasn't advertised as a reset.

Hyde checks the daily minor league reports and tracks Kremer's progress. The right-hander posted a 7.85 ERA, 1.64 WHIP and .304 average against in five July games, including four starts. He was charged with three runs in 2 2/3 relief innings Friday in Jacksonville.

"Just a little bit inconsistent," Hyde said. "There's been some good outings, there's been some not-so-good outings, but it's about command for him and just being more consistent with his command."

The tarp is back on the field as dark clouds roll in, more rain headed to Camden Yards.