masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgJ.J. Hardy, who hasn’t played since being scratched from Sunday’s lineup with a sprained left thumb, is batting sixth tonight as the Orioles shortstop for the series opener in Cleveland.

Ryan Flaherty is starting at third base. Chris Davis continues to bat second.

The Orioles are a season-high 19 games above .500, their highest margin since ending the 2012 season with a 93-69 record.

The Orioles lead the American League East by 7 1/2 games, their largest margin since Sept. 13,…J.J. Hardy, who hasn’t played since being scratched from Sunday’s lineup with a sprained left thumb, is batting sixth tonight as the Orioles shortstop for the series opener in Cleveland.

Ryan Flaherty is starting at third base. Chris Davis continues to bat second.

hardy flaherty highfive sidebar.jpgThe Orioles are a season-high 19 games above .500, their highest margin since ending the 2012 season with a 93-69 record.

The Orioles lead the American League East by 7 1/2 games, their largest margin since Sept. 13, 1997.

Miguel Gonzalez has been transferred from Triple-A Norfolk to Double-A Bowie. He’s not expected to pitch for the Baysox. It’s a paper move.

Gonzalez may throw a bullpen session before accompanying the Orioles to Chicago and starting Tuesday night against the White Sox.

Bowie placed left-hander Jake Pettit on the seven-day disabled list.

For the Orioles
Nick Markakis RF
Chris Davis 1B
Adam Jones CF
Nelson Cruz LF
Delmon Young DH
J.J. Hardy SS
Ryan Flaherty 3B
Caleb Joseph C
Jonathan Schoop 2B

Wei-Yin Chen LHP

For the Indians
Jason Kipnis 2B
Mike Aviles 3B
Michael Brantley CF
Carlos Santana 1B
Yan Gomes C
Ryan Raburn RF
Zach Walters DH
Tyler Holt LF
Jose Ramirez SS

Corey Kluber RHP