masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgSARASOTA, Fla. – Reliever Luis Ayala arrived at the Ed Smith Stadium complex this morning, and an announcement of his minor league deal with the Orioles should be coming later today.

There’s no word on whether Ayala has been offered an invitation to spring training. I was told yesterday that he’d report to Twin Lakes Park.

Stay tuned.

The Orioles found a new opponent today. They’re playing the Braves, who are sending a split squad to Sarasota.

Third baseman Chris Johnson made the trip….SARASOTA, Fla. – Reliever Luis Ayala arrived at the Ed Smith Stadium complex this morning, and an announcement of his minor league deal with the Orioles should be coming later today.

There’s no word on whether Ayala has been offered an invitation to spring training. I was told yesterday that he’d report to Twin Lakes Park.

Stay tuned.

The Orioles found a new opponent today. They’re playing the Braves, who are sending a split squad to Sarasota.

Third baseman Chris Johnson made the trip. He’s the son of Triple-A Norfolk manager Ron Johnson.

Alex Gonzalez is starting at third base. He’s been unavailable after undergoing an endoscopy and colonoscopy. David Lough is in center field.

The game notes listed Chris Tillman as today’s starter, but it’s Miguel Gonzalez on the lineup card. Tillman is sick and isn’t in camp today.

Gonzalez was going to pitch in a Triple-A game today. Now he’s taking the mound against the Braves.

For the Orioles
David Lough CF
Adam Jones DH
Chris Davis 1B
Nelson Cruz LF
Nick Markakis RF
J.J. Hardy SS
Matt Wieters C
Ryan Flaherty 2B
Alex Gonzalez 3B

Miguel Gonzalez RHP

For the Braves
Jordan Schafer CF
Tyler Pastornicky 2B
Freddie Freeman 1B
Chris Johnson 3B
Dan Uggla DH
Andrelton Simmons SS
Steve Lerud C
Joey Terdoslavich RF
Jose Constanza LF

Gus Schlosser RHP