masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe news on Orioles third baseman Manny Machado remains encouraging, as he’s been cleared to further increase his baseball activity before playing in his first game.

Machado ran the bases again today and did very well. The same positive report as yesterday.

Machado will slide on Friday for the first time, and is scheduled to begin participating in extended spring training games the following day.

The Orioles now are estimating that Machado could play in three to five extended spring games…The news on Orioles third baseman Manny Machado remains encouraging, as he’s been cleared to further increase his baseball activity before playing in his first game.

Machado ran the bases again today and did very well. The same positive report as yesterday.

Machado will slide on Friday for the first time, and is scheduled to begin participating in extended spring training games the following day.

The Orioles now are estimating that Machado could play in three to five extended spring games before being assigned to a minor league affiliate for his injury rehab assignment.

Machado already has 17 plate appearances in simulated games in Sarasota, so he’s not likely to need the full 20 days on his assignment.

Vice president of baseball operations Brady Anderson will meet up with Machado after he joins an affiliate. Director of player development Brian Graham and minor league infield instructor Dave Anderson will monitor him during the extended spring games.

Also in Sarasota, outfielder Nolan Reimold (neck) began light baseball activities today by hitting off a tee.

Reliever Edgmer Escalona (shoulder) will start long tossing in the next day or two.

Rule 5 pick Michael Almanzar (knee), who started playing in simulated games on Tuesday, is a little sore today but hasn’t experienced any setbacks.