masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgCenter fielder Adam Jones has also been sent home with flu-like symptoms that are sweeping through the Orioles’ clubhouse. Players are covering their noses and constantly using the hand-sanitizing dispenser mounted on a wall across from manager Buck Showalter’s office.

The timing is especially bad for Jones because of his desire to play on Jackie Robinson Day.

Reliever Evan Meek also was sent home due to an illness. Showalter was going to give him a few days off.

No word on whether the…Center fielder Adam Jones has also been sent home with flu-like symptoms that are sweeping through the Orioles’ clubhouse. Players are covering their noses and constantly using the hand-sanitizing dispenser mounted on a wall across from manager Buck Showalter’s office.

The timing is especially bad for Jones because of his desire to play on Jackie Robinson Day.

Reliever Evan Meek also was sent home due to an illness. Showalter was going to give him a few days off.

No word on whether the Orioles and Rays will play tonight. Showalter rushed out of the interview room to attend a 4:30 p.m. weather meeting.

Showalter indicated that he may change his lineup now that Brandon Gomes is starting instead of Jake Odorizzi, who’s also been sick. Showalter didn’t know about the switch until he walked into the interview room. The Rays apparently hadn’t alerted him.

Third baseman Manny Machado ran three sprints at 90 feet and three at 180, and also got five at-bats in a simulated game. He will run the bases on Wednesday, the final test before being cleared for a rehab assignment.

Rule 5 pick Michael Almanzar was the designated hitter for five innings today in a simulated game and will play third base for seven on Wednesday before starting his rehab assignment.

Johan Santana will throw batting practice on Thursday.

Troy Patton is eligible to start his rehab assignment on Saturday, but the Orioles haven’t decided where to send him.

Dylan Bundy remains scheduled to mix in his breaking ball later this week. He’s been playing catch with it, but hasn’t thrown it in the bullpen.

Bundy worked in the changeup yesterday.