The Orioles are waiting for the results of closer Zach Britton's MRI on his left elbow and forearm. They continue to anticipate good news.
Britton told manager Buck Showalter last night that he was ready to pitch.
"He's champing at the bit," Showalter said.
Outfielder Seth Smith reported that his right hamstring has improved. He's testing it during batting practice.
The Orioles need to find out whether Smith will be available in the near future to avoid a trip to the disabled list. He wouldn't have started tonight against Red Sox left-hander Drew Pomeranz or Sunday against left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez.
Outfielder Joey Rickard hit soft tosses again today and he's still experiencing some soreness in his left middle finger. The Orioles hope that he can take batting practice on Saturday.
Showalter considered the idea of activating Rickard and using him as a pinch-runner and defensive replacement, but he didn't want to risk another injury to the finger and losing the DL time.
Double-A Bowie outfielder Cedric Mullins strained his left hamstring last night and is expected to be out for two weeks. Mullins is batting .367/.406/.683 with five doubles, a triple, four home runs, 11 RBIs and 17 runs scored in 14 games.
Dariel Ãlvarez underwent ligament-reconstructive surgery on his right elbow. The Orioles are trying to convert him from outfielder to pitcher and re-signed him to a minor league deal.
Showalter on the decision to start left-hander Jayson Aquino on Saturday: "It's his time, it's his turn."
For the Red Sox
Dustin Pedroia 2B
Andrew Benintendi LF
Mookie Betts RF
Mitch Moreland 1B
Hanley Ramirez DH
Jackie Bradley Jr. CF
Pablo Sandoval 3B
Christian Vázquez C
Marco Hernandez SS
Drew Pomeranz LHP