Showalter gives Jones, Hardy day off

KANSAS CITY -- All of the Orioles can benefit from Monday's open date, but particularly center fielder Adam Jones.
Jones, who dove for a couple of doubles off the bats of Lorenzo Cain and Jorge Soler on Saturday night, is "banged up" according to manager Buck Showalter. Joey Rickard got the start in center field on Sunday.
"Sore hip, diving for some stuff," Showalter said.
Showalter described Jones as being "tough as nails." Said Showalter: "I haven't had many pass my way like Adam. He loves to play. Adam could have played in any era."
Shortstop J.J. Hardy also wasn't in the lineup on Sunday and gets the two-day rest opportunity. Ryan Flaherty replaced Hardy. Showalter told both players of his plans following Saturday's game.

Bleier recalled, Nuno optioned
The Orioles made a move to fortify their bullpen Sunday by recalling left-hander Richard Bleier from Triple-A Norfolk.
Bleier worked four innings on May 3 in Boston after starter Kevin Gausman was ejected in the second inning. In that long relief effort, Bleier allowed five hits and three runs, but only one run was earned. Bleier was then optioned back to Norfolk on May 4.The Orioles made room on the roster for Bleier by optioning lefty Vidal Nuño to Norfolk.
"I was just paying attention to what was happening in our games down in Norfolk, trying to get people out," Bleier said. "I'm just thankful for every day in the Major Leagues. One day at a time, really."
Showalter said he likes what he has seen from Bleier.
"I'd like to get to the point where we can keep him here," Showalter said. "We've got a chance to reset after Tuesday [with Monday's off-day]. The guys who have pitched well, we'd like for them to stay. That's what we're hoping to get to."