masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles haven’t set a firm date for second baseman Brian Roberts to take live batting practice. He’s hoping to step into the cage next week.

Roberts continues to hit off a tee and soft toss.

Chris Tillman still is slated to throw live batting practice tomorrow. The cold air didn’t do his back any favors today, but he keeps insisting that he’s fine and the mild tightness is nothing to worry about.

Manager Dave Trembley was impressed with the finish on Koji Uehara’s pitches today and…The Orioles haven’t set a firm date for second baseman Brian Roberts to take live batting practice. He’s hoping to step into the cage next week.

Roberts continues to hit off a tee and soft toss.

Chris Tillman still is slated to throw live batting practice tomorrow. The cold air didn’t do his back any favors today, but he keeps insisting that he’s fine and the mild tightness is nothing to worry about.

Manager Dave Trembley was impressed with the finish on Koji Uehara’s pitches today and how the right-hander located the ball.

“He looks strong, he looks quick with his arm,” Trembley said. “He has late life on his pitches. That’s what he looked like at the beginning of the season. We need him to continue that for us.”

Asked about Uehara’s conditioning, Trembley replied: “I don’t see Koji being on any special program. He’s more integrated into what the program is here. And he must have done an awful lot of work in the off-season because last year I think it was new for him and he didn’t really know what to expect. This year it looks like he’s come in with a whole lot better idea of what the routine is here.”

The Orioles still expect Rhyne Hughes to take fly balls in left field later in camp, but they’re not rushing him out there.