Atkins diet sheds him from lineup (w/Fox update)

It's only been a week since the Orioles played a game at Camden Yards, but it feels much longer to me. I'll have to remind myself to put down the boxes and head to the ballpark this afternoon. The Orioles begin a three-game interleague series against the Marlins, and they aren't real familiar with right-hander Anibal Sanchez. Cesar Izturis is 2-for-3 with a double against him. Garrett Atkins and Julio Lugo are 0-for-3, and Luke Scott is 0-for-2 with a walk. That's it. Will another game pass without Atkins getting off the bench? He doesn't have an at-bat since June 14 and failed to start against the Padres despite being a career .324 hitter against them. He's 3-for-11 this month. Interim manager Juan Samuel met with Atkins a few days ago to remind the first baseman that he hasn't been forgotten. And the charter back to Baltimore didn't take off without him, proving Samuel's point. The Orioles reportedly are interested in Jake Fox - the Athletics have until Thursday to trade, release or waive him - and he could bump Atkins off the roster. Or the Orioles could do the shoving. Update: A team official confirmed that the Orioles acquired Fox from the Athletics. The Sun's Jeff Zrebiec is reporting that Oakland will receive Triple-A pitcher Ross Wolf in return. Chris Tillman could be optioned to Norfolk to make room for Fox, since he needs to get back into a rotation, but Atkins remains on extremely shaky ground. Atkins is hitting .219 with one home run and nine RBIs. He's anchored to the bench. It seems like that roster spot could be put to better use. I guess it's pointless to mention that Atkins is a career .286 hitter, with four homers and 16 RBIs, in 33 games against the Marlins. The Orioles get their designated hitter back this week and they'll face left-hander Nate Robertson on Thursday. Maybe there's hope for Atkins - if he's still here. Atkins isn't hurt, but you get the feeling that he should be listed as day-to-day. Jumping topics: In case you missed it, the Yankees designated catcher Chad Moeller for assignment yesterday. Also, check out Kate Wheeler's blog for details on Saturday's 40th anniversary celebration of the 1970 World Series championship. Should be a good time.