masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgJ.J. Hardy is out of the Orioles lineup again tonight, marking the sixth time in seven games that has been the case. Ryan Flaherty is starting again at shortstop.

Hardy was supposed to work out yesterday to test his lower back and remained hopeful that he would start tonight.

Update: Hardy fielded ground balls today and will take batting practice later. He expects to be in the lineup Saturday. Hardy was told to rest Thursday, which is why he didn’t work out, but he says his back is feeling…J.J. Hardy is out of the Orioles lineup again tonight, marking the sixth time in seven games that has been the case. Ryan Flaherty is starting again at shortstop.

Hardy was supposed to work out yesterday to test his lower back and remained hopeful that he would start tonight.

Update: Hardy fielded ground balls today and will take batting practice later. He expects to be in the lineup Saturday. Hardy was told to rest Thursday, which is why he didn’t work out, but he says his back is feeling much better.

Also, Nelson Cruz is starting in left field instead of David Lough.

For the Orioles
Nick Markakis RF
Delmon Young DH
Chris Davis 1B
Adam Jones CF
Matt Wieters C
Nelson Cruz LF
Steve Lombardozzi 2B
Ryan Flaherty SS
Jonathan Schoop 3B

Chris Tillman RHP

For the Blue Jays
Melky Cabrera LF
Maicer Izturis 2B
Jose Bautista RF
Edwin Encarnacion DH
Adam Lind 1B
Dioner Navarro C
Colby Rasmus CF
Brett Lawrie 3B
Ryan Goins SS

Dustin McGowan RHP

Ravens cornerback Lardarius Webb will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.