masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgManager Buck Showalter basically confirmed that second baseman Brian Roberts will join a minor league affiliate on an injury-rehab assignment, perhaps within the next few weeks, rather than report to extended spring training in Sarasota.

Showalter is careful not to reveal too much information, but he didn’t dispute Roberts’ assertion that Sarasota will be bypassed.

Roberts most likely would join Double-A Bowie or Single-A Frederick so he can stay close to Baltimore.

Showalter shot down a…Manager Buck Showalter basically confirmed that second baseman Brian Roberts will join a minor league affiliate on an injury-rehab assignment, perhaps within the next few weeks, rather than report to extended spring training in Sarasota.

Showalter is careful not to reveal too much information, but he didn’t dispute Roberts’ assertion that Sarasota will be bypassed.

Roberts most likely would join Double-A Bowie or Single-A Frederick so he can stay close to Baltimore.

Showalter shot down a suggestion that Roberts could be a “role player” if he makes it through the rehab assignment and comes off the disabled list.

Reliever Matt Lindstrom won’t be ready to come off the disabled list when he’s eligible on Saturday. Lindstrom, who has a partial tear in a ligament in his right middle finger, will need to pitch in a few games in the minors. He’s feeling good, but he needs to make sure that his command has returned.

More on Zach Britton: He threw 69 pitches today against the Twins at extended spring training, and 10 more in the bullpen. If he gets through Wednesday’s work day, he’ll join an affiliate and start on Saturday. The smart money is on Bowie.

Third baseman Mark Reynolds is close to going on a rehab assignment. He’s moving around, taking ground balls and not experiencing any discomfort in his oblique.

Reynolds is a “tick ahead” of outfielder Endy Chavez, according to Showalter. “But that could change overnight,” he added.

Catcher Taylor Teagarden is feeling good, but he’s seeking a second opinion from back specialist Dr. Andrew Dossett in Dallas. Just wants to make sure everything’s good.

The Orioles re-signed infielder Josh Barfield and assigned him to Bowie. They released him from Triple-A Norfolk’s roster on April 29 after he was 0-for-8 with a walk and three strikeouts in four games.

Pitcher Eddie Gamboa and catcher Scott Thomas were transferred to Norfolk. Infielder Buck Britton moved down to Bowie. Infielder Mike Flacco moved down to Frederick. Left-hander Andy Loomis transferred from Norfolk to Frederick.

Miguel Tejada is batting cleanup and starting at third base tonight for Norfolk.

I’ll post quotes from Showalter in my next entry.