masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles announced that they optioned infielder Steve Lombardozzi to Triple-A Norfolk today to make room for third baseman Manny Machado on the 25-man roster.

Lombardozzi, 25, batted .292/.301/.333 (21-for-72) in 19 games at second base for the Orioles this season.

Ryan Flaherty remains on the roster and could start at first base tonight in Game 2. The Orioles like him defensively in the infield and he also can play the outfield. He’s basically the backup first baseman with Chris Davis on…The Orioles announced that they optioned infielder Steve Lombardozzi to Triple-A Norfolk today to make room for third baseman Manny Machado on the 25-man roster.

Lombardozzi, 25, batted .292/.301/.333 (21-for-72) in 19 games at second base for the Orioles this season.

Ryan Flaherty remains on the roster and could start at first base tonight in Game 2. The Orioles like him defensively in the infield and he also can play the outfield. He’s basically the backup first baseman with Chris Davis on the disabled list.

Manager Buck Showalter said he hopes the Lombardozzi move is an indication that the Orioles have “better depth.”

Machado isn’t starting Game 1 because Showalter didn’t want him sitting through Game 2 and then coming off the bench if needed in the late innings.

The Orioles won’t go with 13 pitchers after activating left-hander Troy Patton in Game 2 unless something happens in Game 1 that dictates a change in plans.

Left-hander Johan Santana’s fastball reached 86-87 mph for a few pitches during Monday’s simulated game in Sarasota. He’s still scheduled to pitch Saturday in an extended spring training game and throw a bullpen session two days later.

Outfielder Nolan Reimold took batting practice yesterday in Sarasota. Outfielder Francisco Peguero is “pretty deep in baseball activities,” according to Showalter. Rule 5 pick Michael Almanzar had a Platelet Rich Plasma injection in his left knee a few days ago and is shut down.