masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgMinor league reliever Luis Lebron continues to experience pain in his right elbow, and he’s scheduled to visit Dr. James Andrews on May 10 in Birmingham, Ala.

It isn’t often that these examinations bring positive news.

Lebron was shut down late in spring training after impressing manager Dave Trembley in major league camp. He started throwing again recently, but the discomfort resurfaced on Wednesday during a bullpen session in Sarasota.

Lebron emerged as a future closer candidate after…Minor league reliever Luis Lebron continues to experience pain in his right elbow, and he’s scheduled to visit Dr. James Andrews on May 10 in Birmingham, Ala.

It isn’t often that these examinations bring positive news.

Lebron was shut down late in spring training after impressing manager Dave Trembley in major league camp. He started throwing again recently, but the discomfort resurfaced on Wednesday during a bullpen session in Sarasota.

Lebron emerged as a future closer candidate after registering 20 saves last season between Single-A Frederick and Double-A Bowie. He made the Carolina League All-Star Team with Frederick, and went 1-0 with a 1.98 ERA and nine saves in 24 games at Bowie. He totaled 91 strikeouts in 60 1/3 innings at the two affiliates.

Riding that momentum, Lebron went 3-0 with a 1.38 ERA and 13 strikeouts in 13 innings for Toros del Este in the Dominican Winter League, and threw 1 2/3 scoreless innings in two appearances with the Orioles in spring training. Trembley lauded Lebron for having a big league arm.

Now the club needs that arm to get healthy.

In case you’re wondering why Lebron must wait until May 10, I’m guessing that Andrews’ appointment book is pretty full. And you don’t cut in line when you’re a Double-A pitcher.

Want some good news? Brad Bergesen retired all three batters he faced in the first inning on two fly balls and a tapper to the mound. And Adam Jones drew a leadoff walk in the bottom of the first, advanced on an errant pickoff throw from Red Sox starter Daisuke Matsuzaka and scored on Nick Markakis’ single.

Orioles 1, Boston 0.

Update: Well, so much for the good news. David Ortiz has homered with two outs in the second inning, only his second round-tripper this season.

Orioles 1, Boston 1.