The rotation churn continues for the Orioles.
Left-hander Cade Povich was placed on the 15-day injured list with elbow inflammation, the club announced Friday. To replace Povich, who exited Thursday’s start after 43 pitches, Baltimore recalled top pitching prospect Trey Gibson.
The right-handed Gibson made his major league debut Sunday at Yankee Stadium, providing five innings of three-run ball.
The good news for Povich is this doesn’t appear to be a long-term injury. Manager Craig Albernaz said the inflammation is on the outside or back side of Povich’s forearm and triceps. If there were discomfort on the inside of the elbow, concern for ligament damage would be higher.
Albernaz said Povich received a cortisone shot to combat the inflammation, but the Orioles later said he would possibly receive a cortisone shot, while other options remained on the table.
Still, the placement of the inflammation is encouraging.
“It’s on the outside, which is better than the alternative,” Albernaz said. “He felt it in the second [inning Thursday], and you’re not sure what that would be and if you can pitch through it. ’Cause every baseball player is always focused on the other side of the elbow. ... In the third inning, it really started tightening up on him. I’m glad he said something.”
Povich has pitched in four games, including three starts, this year for Baltimore. He holds a 5.12 ERA.
Gibson said he’ll be available out of the bullpen Friday in case of need. The Orioles open a series against the Athletics, which marks their 10th straight game without an off day. The bullpen could use a fresh arm.
Povich becomes the 17th player to reach the injured list this season. He’s the 12th currently on the shelf, joining starting pitchers Zach Eflin (elbow), Dean Kremer (quadriceps) and Trevor Rogers (flu).
Rogers is eligible to return from the injured list Monday, and he could start that series opener against the New York Yankees.
“Every single time when an injury happens, doesn’t matter if it’s this year or with any team, but with our guys in particular, they feel for the player,” Albernaz said. “They know how bad they want to go out there. ... But, also, they also know you still have to play the game. They know the next person up is prepared and talented.”
This article has been updated.






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