The Orioles officially welcomed closer Zach Britton back to the 25-man roster while losing another key player prior to Tuesday’s game against Boston.
Catcher Welington Castillo was placed on the 10-day disabled list with right shoulder tendinitis a day after being scratched with what was originally described as neck spasms. An MRI exam revealed the issue, but the ailment is not expected to sideline Castillo for long.
Signed to a one-year, $6 million contract in December, the 30-year-old is batting .314 with one home run, six RBIs, and a .776 on-base plus slugging percentage in 72 plate appearances with his new club.
“Structurally fine. He started some medication,” manager Buck Showalter told reporters in Boston prior to Tuesday’s game. “I think it’ll manage itself within the 10 days, but because of the position, we’re going to need a catcher. We’ve been thinking about it, waiting on the tests, and talking with Welington the most. This is the path that we have decided to take.”
Baltimore selected the contract of Francisco Pena from Triple-A Norfolk. He is expected to serve as the backup to Caleb Joseph for the time being. To make room for Pena on the 40-man roster, recently-acquired minor-league pitcher Damien Magnifico was designated for assignment.
The Orioles are thrilled to have Britton back at the end of the bullpen for the first time since April 14 when he felt left forearm discomfort while throwing a slider in Toronto. The two-time All-Star closer made two rehab appearances for Double-A Bowie, allowing a home run in 1 2/3 innings.
To make room for Britton’s activation from the DL, right-handed pitcher Mike Wright was optioned back to Norfolk a day after being recalled as a fresh arm for the bullpen. He did not appear in Monday’s game.
