masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgIn a move that was anticipated after today’s game, the Orioles have optioned right-hander Tommy Hunter to Triple-A Norfolk.

No corresponding roster move was announced. Jim Thome will be added to the 25-man roster tomorrow, but the Orioles also are expected to add pitcher Miguel Gonzalez, who was scratched from tonight’s start at Norfolk.

Hunter is 3-4 with a 6.11 ERA in 15 games, including 13 starts. He relieved left-hander Dana Eveland today and allowed five runs and eight hits in 1 2/3…In a move that was anticipated after today’s game, the Orioles have optioned right-hander Tommy Hunter to Triple-A Norfolk.

No corresponding roster move was announced. Jim Thome will be added to the 25-man roster tomorrow, but the Orioles also are expected to add pitcher Miguel Gonzalez, who was scratched from tonight’s start at Norfolk.

Hunter is 3-4 with a 6.11 ERA in 15 games, including 13 starts. He relieved left-hander Dana Eveland today and allowed five runs and eight hits in 1 2/3 innings.

Hunter will likely join Norfolk’s rotation.

Hunter’s primary issue is he can’t get the ball down, and he’s being hit hard. He’s aware of the problem, but he hasn’t been able to solve it.

Asked after today’s game about the possibility of being sent down, Hunter said, “I’ve done it before. I’ve just got to figure it out and let them take care of whatever they’ve got to do and the next time you get the ball, you throw strikes. Quality ones.”