masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgSARASOTA, Fla. – Orioles manager Buck Showalter said the first roster cuts of spring training could be made today during lunch.

Showalter indicated earlier in the week that he’d wait until after Saturday’s split-squad games, but those plans have changed.

Players on the 40-man roster for the first time, such as pitcher Tim Berry and catcher Michael Ohlman, can’t be sent out before Monday.

I prefer not to speculate on today’s cuts, but first baseman Chris Marrero still can’t work out…SARASOTA, Fla. – Orioles manager Buck Showalter said the first roster cuts of spring training could be made today during lunch.

Showalter indicated earlier in the week that he’d wait until after Saturday’s split-squad games, but those plans have changed.

Players on the 40-man roster for the first time, such as pitcher Tim Berry and catcher Michael Ohlman, can’t be sent out before Monday.

I prefer not to speculate on today’s cuts, but first baseman Chris Marrero still can’t work out because of an oblique injury and eventually will be reassigned to minor league camp.

“That’s really moving slow,” Showalter said before bringing up the likelihood of cuts today.

Henry Urrutia is available to play today after being shut down briefly with inflammation in his right shoulder. Alexi Casilla could make his spring debut on Saturday.

“There’s an outside chance,” Showalter said.

Though Sunday seemed like a more realistic target date for Casilla, Showalter said, “If we get a really good report on him, we may play him tomorrow.”

Ubaldo Jimenez is scheduled to work two innings. Miguel Gonzalez will go two or three innings.

It’s overcast and windy today. The pitchers could be challenged by the conditions.

“It’s one of those days you could pitch great and give up six runs,” Showalter said.

Jimenez is making his Orioles debut.

“Just want him to get his work in and start building toward the finish line,” Showalter said. “I can’t think of anything that would happen out here today… It’s just about getting his work done and pitching on a very hitter-friendly day. I’m just excited to get him out there.”