Closer Ryan Helsley threw live batting practice today before the grounds crew rolled out the cage, perhaps the final step before an injury rehab assignment in the minors.

Helsley is on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation. He’s thrown in the bullpen prior to today’s session.

Manager Craig Albernaz said starter Chris Bassitt is looking at his options after going on the 15-day IL this afternoon with lower-back discomfort. Albernaz said it’s too soon to know whether Bassitt will be lost for the minimum amount of time.

Bassitt is eligible to return on June 20.

Outfielder Michael Siani and catcher Silas Ardoin are on the taxi squad. Siani joined the team to take some swings against Helsley.

The Cubs claimed right-hander Eduarniel Núñez, who was designated for assignment on Thursday.

First baseman/outfielder Jhonkensy Noel is going on Triple-A Norfolk’s seven-day injured list with left wrist inflammation.

Sam Huff is catching tonight for the Orioles while Adley Rutschman and Samuel Basallo are on the bench.

Basallo was removed for a pinch-hitter yesterday, two innings after making a lunging tag at the plate and grabbing his left wrist. Albernaz said Basallo is fine.

Gunnar Henderson is the designated hitter and Blaze Alexander is at shortstop. Colton Cowser is in center field and he’s batting cleanup for the first time this season. Leody Taveras is playing right field.

For the Orioles
Taylor Ward LF
Gunnar Henderson DH
Pete Alonso 1B
Colton Cowser CF
Leody Taveras RF
Jackson Holliday 2B
Coby Mayo 3B
Blaze Alexander SS
Sam Huff C

Trey Gibson RHP

For the Mariners
Cole Young 2B
Julio Rodríguez CF
Josh Naylor 1B
Randy Arozarena LF
Luke Raley RF
Dominic Canzone DH
Patrick Wisdom 3B
Colt Emerson SS
Jhonny Pereda C

Emerson Hancock RHP