masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Brad Bergesen is “a candidate” to start the April 10 game against the Rangers at Camden Yards, according to manager Buck Showalter. Not necessarily the leading candidate. Just a candidate.

Showalter is hesitant to name Bergesen the starter until making sure the Orioles aren’t rained out Monday for their home-opener against the Tigers.

Bergesen talked about being in the bullpen to begin the season.

“I had the meeting with Buck and Goose (Mark Connor) yesterday and…ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Brad Bergesen is “a candidate” to start the April 10 game against the Rangers at Camden Yards, according to manager Buck Showalter. Not necessarily the leading candidate. Just a candidate.

Showalter is hesitant to name Bergesen the starter until making sure the Orioles aren’t rained out Monday for their home-opener against the Tigers.

Bergesen talked about being in the bullpen to begin the season.

“I had the meeting with Buck and Goose (Mark Connor) yesterday and they just explained all the different variables that are coming up In the next couple of weeks,” Bergesen said. “They wanted to put me in the bullpen just to make sure I was fully ready for this year and just give me a little more time. April 10th, they said, they’re probably going to need someone. That’s kind of what they’re kind of hinting at, but who knows what could happen until then?

“For me, I’m taking it very positively and treating it like I have 10 more days to try and fine-tune some things. But compared to last year, it’s just much more confidence in my arm strength. There was a lot of question marks going on in my head when I was out on the mound during the games, and that’s not a good place to be. And that obviously showed last year. So that part is much more comforting. Everything feels good.”

Bergesen threw two innings yesterday in a minor league game and had no issues with his right arm.

“I felt good,” he said. “It felt good to get back out there and compete again.”