masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles no longer will be facing Astros right-hander Bud Norris tonight in the opener of a three-game series at Camden Yards.

The Astros just announced that Lucas Harrell will replace Norris tonight. No explanation was provided, but Norris has been the subject of intense trade speculation as the non-waiver deadline approaches Wednesday afternoon.

The Orioles have inquired about Norris, but the Astros reportedly are asking for more than the club is willing to deliver.

Former Oriole Erik…The Orioles no longer will be facing Astros right-hander Bud Norris tonight in the opener of a three-game series at Camden Yards.

The Astros just announced that Lucas Harrell will replace Norris tonight. No explanation was provided, but Norris has been the subject of intense trade speculation as the non-waiver deadline approaches Wednesday afternoon.

The Orioles have inquired about Norris, but the Astros reportedly are asking for more than the club is willing to deliver.

Former Oriole Erik Bedard remains scheduled to start Wednesday night, though he also could be dealt before the deadline. Jordan Lyles is slated to pitch Thursday.

Yahoo! Sports’ Jeff Passan is reporting that Norris is “very likely” to be traded today, according to sources, and that Pittsburgh could be the landing spot. However, CBSSports.com’s Danny Knobler says the Astros aren’t close to completing a deal.

Harrell is 5-10 with a 5.17 ERA in 23 games, including 19 starts. His 62 walks in 115 innings lead the American League.

In his only start against the Orioles on June 4, Harrell allowed two runs (one earned) and five hits in seven innings, with no walks and six strikeouts. He’s never pitched at Camden Yards.

Among the current Orioles, Chris Davis, Ryan Flaherty, J.J. Hardy and Manny Machado each had one hit off Harrell. Machado doubled off him.