FREDERICK, Md. - Manny Machado's rehab assignment moves to another level today when he plays nine innings for the first time, something he didn't do during extended spring training games in Florida. He will also play the field at third today here in Frederick and bat second for the Keys in their 2 p.m. game against the Carolina Mudcats at Harry Grove Stadium. "I'm excited for it and looking forward to it," Machado said earlier outside the Keys' clubhouse. "It's the next step in the rehab session. First time I've played nine innings. Just one day closer to getting with the team again." He said moving side to side and moving around the bag at third base has not been an issue in his comeback from October's left knee surgery. "I feel comfortable," Machado said. "If I didn't, I wouldn't be out there. Just a matter of just being on my feet out there for nine innings." After going 3-for-4 with two doubles and a triple as the DH last night, Machado went through pregame infield and batting practice today and feels fine. The knee is holding up well as expected. "Feels good. Feels really good," he said. "This is what I need to be feeling. Getting out there on the bases and playing and see how I react the next day. It's been good, no setbacks or soreness." Machado said he thought he would play third base for the Keys also on Sunday, but wasn't certain yet. He still doesn't know where he'll play after this weekend.

"That is out of my hands, just here playing. Wherever they tell me to go, I'll go and get done what I need to get done," he said. Machado was asked if he'll need to face a higher level of minor league pitching before he gets back to Baltimore? "What's the difference? Baseball is baseball," he said. "You can't really simulate the big leagues, that is the top level of baseball. I'm facing good pitching here, High-A. You have some top up and coming prospects." Machado will be facing a decent prospect on the mound today for Carolina. Left-hander Shawn Morimando is 2-0 with a 2.45 ERA. He held the Keys to one run in six innings last Sunday and the 21-year-old is Cleveland's 22nd-best prospect according to Baseball America. Machado was asked if the injury to Chris Davis changes anything for him and if it makes him want to get to Baltimore sooner than planned? "It's sad that Chris came down with an injury and I hope it isn't bad," Machado said. "He's a gamer. But I'm Manny. I'm here doing it the right way, getting myself ready to be a part of that team. It's unfortunate that he is down, but hope everything is well." Another good crowd is expected here this afternoon. When he left the game last night Machado took some time to talk with fans and sign autographs. "They came out here and supported me," he said of the Keys fans. "They do throughout year and it's huge. You have to give back to the fans that support you. They are as much a part of the team as we are." By the way, we think of Manny as a major leaguer, but he also is among the youngest players in the Keys' clubhouse. Still nearly three months before he turns 22, he is the second youngest in the Keys batting order today. The youngest is shortstop Adrian Marin who turned 20 in March. Check back when I publish the game blog closer to first pitch for updates this afternoon from Frederick here and on Twitter.