Orioles slugger Samuel Basallo’s MRI is clean after he exited game with abdominal discomfort

TORONTO — The results of the MRI on Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo’s abdomen came back clean, manager Craig Albernaz said, a day after the slugger departed Friday’s series-opening win due to discomfort on his right side.

Still, Baltimore may refrain from using the 21-year-old backstop in the second game of the series against the Blue Jays.

The Orioles designated utilityman Weston Wilson for assignment so they could select the contract of catcher Sam Huff. Adding Huff to the roster allows the Orioles to stay away from Basallo for the most part Saturday.

Basallo participated in full hitting and defensive work before the game, and he could be available off the bench.

“Glad Sammy said something, because who would’ve known if he didn’t say anything, and if he kept on going, if the MRI would’ve been something severe,” Albernaz said. “It’s see where he’s at today physically but also mentally, get a plan in place to make sure that’s taken care of. We dodged a bullet there.”

Meanwhile, right-hander Chris Bassitt is “looking at some opinions right now” regarding his lower back tightness, which prompted him to leave Wednesday’s game after three innings. Bassitt threw before Saturday’s game, but the Orioles and the pitcher remain in “wait and see” mode, Albernaz said. If he’s healthy, Bassitt would likely start Monday’s game.

“We’ll see what the next steps are,” Albernaz said.

Basallo is one of Baltimore’s most important hitters. Entering Saturday, he carries a .273 batting average and an .833 on-base-plus-slugging percentage. The Orioles will be relieved his right side discomfort isn’t considered serious.

But it remains to be seen how Bassitt fares. The Orioles have three starting pitchers on the injured list: right-handers Dean Kremer and Zach Eflin and left-hander Cade Povich. Bassitt’s results have left much to be desired. He has pitched to a 5.27 ERA.

Should Bassitt not be able to start Monday, the Orioles could turn to right-hander Trey Gibson, who threw for Triple-A Norfolk on Wednesday and would be on regular rest. Gibson has a 3.65 ERA in two starts and one relief appearance during his first taste of major league life.