masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgStill no word on Manny Machado’s MRI, which took place early this afternoon. The Orioles are expected to make an announcement later today. That’s all I’ve got at the moment.

The only certainty is that Machado won’t play again in 2013.

I wrote this morning that Danny Valencia and Ryan Flaherty are two candidates to replace Machado at third base, and Jonathan Schoop has played the position in the minors.

Manager Buck Showalter hasn’t used Schoop while his club’s been in a pennant race,…Still no word on Manny Machado’s MRI, which took place early this afternoon. The Orioles are expected to make an announcement later today. That’s all I’ve got at the moment.

The only certainty is that Machado won’t play again in 2013.

I wrote this morning that Danny Valencia and Ryan Flaherty are two candidates to replace Machado at third base, and Jonathan Schoop has played the position in the minors.

Manager Buck Showalter hasn’t used Schoop while his club’s been in a pennant race, but maybe his plan changes later this week with the Orioles on the verge of elimination.

Michael Morse has appeared in nine major league games at third, making two starts. Seriously doubt it’s going to happen again this week.

Alexi Casilla’s status is uncertain after he underwent a CT scan following yesterday’s collision with Nick Markakis in right field. He’s exhibiting symptoms of a concussion and may not play again this season.

Meanwhile, the Orioles still need one more victory for their second consecutive winning season. They’re only six games above .500 for the first time since June 8.

Chris Tillman is 3-3 with a 4.18 ERA and one complete game in nine career starts against the Blue Jays. He’s 2-1 with a 3.86 ERA in four starts against Toronto this year, including 1-0 with a 2.84 ERA in two home games.

Brett Lawrie is 3-for-10 with a home run against him.

The current Orioles are 7-for-37 (.189) against Toronto starter Todd Redmond. Chris Davis is 1-for-4 with a home run and Adam Jones is 1-for-5 with a homer.

As part of this week’s Fan Appreciation Celebration, fans will be randomly chosen throughout tonight’s game to win prizes and be featured on the centerfield video board. Prizes include two Southwest Airlines travel vouchers, autographed memorabilia, 2014 opening day tickets and a 13-game season ticket plan for 2014.