masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles optioned catcher Steve Clevenger to short-season Single-A Aberdeen today to create a roster spot for left-hander Wei-Yin Chen, who’s starting against the Twins at Camden Yards.

Clevenger will return on Tuesday. In the meantime, the Orioles want him to start at least one game for the IronBirds to stay sharp.

Newly acquired outfielder Alejandro De Aza didn’t make his flight to Baltimore this morning, which explains why he’s not in the lineup. The Orioles will wait until Monday to…The Orioles optioned catcher Steve Clevenger to short-season Single-A Aberdeen today to create a roster spot for left-hander Wei-Yin Chen, who’s starting against the Twins at Camden Yards.

steve-clevenger_mask.pngClevenger will return on Tuesday. In the meantime, the Orioles want him to start at least one game for the IronBirds to stay sharp.

Newly acquired outfielder Alejandro De Aza didn’t make his flight to Baltimore this morning, which explains why he’s not in the lineup. The Orioles will wait until Monday to add him to the roster, eliminating the need to make a corresponding move.

Manager Buck Showalter wrote out two lineups in case De Aza didn’t make it for first pitch.

Once he gets here, De Aza will wear No. 12.

Infielder Kelly Johnson also will report on Monday.

De Aza and Johnson are eligible for the postseason roster. They’re in the organization and on the 40-man roster, and that’s all that matters.

The Orioles will add two pitchers from Triple-A Norfolk before Monday afternoon’s game. The smart money is on Ryan Webb and non-roster left-hander Joe Saunders.

The Orioles have 39 players on their 40-man roster. Once it’s full, they can create another spot by transferring third baseman Manny Machado to the 60-day disabled list.

Machado still plans to join the Orioles on Sept. 17 and continue his rehab.

The 10-player list of taxi squad players reporting to Sarasota will include two or three pitchers who are capable of starting, in case the Orioles need them. Mike Wright, who’s flirted with no-hitters in his last two starts with the Tides, and Tyler Wilson will be included in the group.

Wilson is expected to be named the organization’s Pitcher of the Year.