masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgSARASOTA, Fla. – Justin Duchscherer wasn’t able to pitch in today’s simulated game because of discomfort in his left hip.

Duchscherer threw on flat ground and said he didn’t feel comfortable. The medical staff is checking on him.

The Orioles could go with a four-man rotation early in the season because of the April 5 off-day, giving them more time with Duchscherer.

The simulated game involved a pitcher, batter, catcher and umpire. Nobody else. It gave guys like Jim Johnson and Mark…SARASOTA, Fla. – Justin Duchscherer wasn’t able to pitch in today’s simulated game because of discomfort in his left hip.

Duchscherer threw on flat ground and said he didn’t feel comfortable. The medical staff is checking on him.

The Orioles could go with a four-man rotation early in the season because of the April 5 off-day, giving them more time with Duchscherer.

The simulated game involved a pitcher, batter, catcher and umpire. Nobody else. It gave guys like Jim Johnson and Mark Hendrickson a chance to throw two innings against a collection of minor leaguers that included Rhyne Hughes, Kieron Pope, Tyler Townsend, Ronnie Welty and Robby Widlansky.

Derrek Lee could hit off a tee tomorrow. Koji Uehara is slated to throw a bullpen session.

We’re told that Zach Britton’s fastball hit 94 mph in all four innings of yesterday’s start against the Astros.

Here’s the Orioles lineup:
J.J. Hardy SS
Nick Markakis RF
Adam Jones CF
Vladimir Guerrero DH
Mark Reynolds 3B
Luke Scott LF
Matt Wieters C
Josh Bell 1B
Cesar Izturis 2B

Brian Matusz LHP