masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles need a starter to take Tommy Hunter’s turn on Friday. Jason Berken, recalled today for the second time this season, is a possibility. He’s been starting at Triple-A Norfolk.

However, what happens if Berken is needed in relief this week and throws enough pitches that he’s not available for the series opener against Tampa Bay?

Chris Tillman is scheduled to start Friday for Norfolk, so he must be viewed as a candidate. He threw six innings yesterday in Game 1 of a doubleheader and…The Orioles need a starter to take Tommy Hunter’s turn on Friday. Jason Berken, recalled today for the second time this season, is a possibility. He’s been starting at Triple-A Norfolk.

However, what happens if Berken is needed in relief this week and throws enough pitches that he’s not available for the series opener against Tampa Bay?

Chris Tillman is scheduled to start Friday for Norfolk, so he must be viewed as a candidate. He threw six innings yesterday in Game 1 of a doubleheader and is 3-3 with a 5.10 ERA.

Tillman is the only current Norfolk starter on the 40-man roster, which also works in his favor.

Left-hander Dana Eveland is starting tonight for the Tides. He’s 2-2 with 2.56 ERA.

Joel Pineiro makes his second start for Norfolk tomorrow after allowing one run and three hits over six innings Thursday in his debut with the Tides.

Steve Johnson is slated to pitch on Wednesday. He’s 1-1 with a 2.60 ERA.

Berken is listed as Thursday’s starter, but Brad Bergesen could rejoin the rotation after moving to the bullpen. Someone has to replace Berken.

Bergesen, who’s on the 40-man roster, is 0-2 with a 5.81 ERA in six games (five starts), with 38 hits allowed, 13 walks and 13 strikeouts in 26 1/3 innings.

That leaves Tillman, who would be working on normal rest Friday if the Orioles called him up. He’s allowed 36 hits, walked 15 and struck out 26 in 30 innings. He held Durham to two runs in six innings yesterday.

Note: The Orioles will recognize manager Buck Showalter’s 1,000th career win in a pregame ceremony tonight at 6:55 p.m.