The Orioles made a series of roster moves as they wrapped up Grapefruit League action on Thursday and continue counting down to Monday’s season opener.
As expected, veteran Pedro Alvarez was reassigned to minor-league camp and will begin the season at Triple-A Norfolk to continue his transition to the outfield. Fellow outfielder Chris Dickerson and infielders Robert Andino, Johnny Giavotella, and Paul Janish were also reassigned to minor-league camp.
Baltimore optioned right-handed pitchers Logan Verrett and Alec Asher to Triple-A Norfolk. Asher was acquired from Philadelphia in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations earlier this week.
Manager Buck Showalter told reporters in Sarasota that starting pitcher Wade Miley will be placed on the new 10-day disabled list and remains in line to start the fifth game of the season on April 9. Miley is still building up his stamina after using costly time due to an upper respiratory illness. Because of two off-days next week, Opening Day pitcher Kevin Gausman will be able to make two starts on regular rest before the Orioles need their fourth starter behind him, Dylan Bundy, and Ubaldo Jimenez.
Outfielders Joey Rickard and Craig Gentry as well as first baseman and outfielder Trey Mancini are expected to make the Opening Day roster and will go north with the club to Baltimore. It remains to be seen how long Showalter will be able to carry 14 position players, but the Orioles will not need a No. 5 starter until April 15.
Showalter also said his plan is to carry left-hander Vidal Nuno and right-hander Tyler Wilson as long relievers to begin the regular season, but that could change if the organization were to add any other pitchers between now and Monday.
