Alexander pain free as he plays catch for 1st time since fracturing hand

ARLINGTON -- Blaze Alexander took a step forward in his recovery Friday at Globe Life Field, playing catch for the first time since sustaining a non-displaced fracture in his left hand on July 12.

Alexander told reporters he is pain free and hopes to start hitting next week when the Orioles visit the Twins. Manager Craig Albernaz called it “great” to see Alexander take that step as the Orioles entered a three-game series against the Rangers.

“He brings a lot of energy, always has energy, and to check that box, he’s definitely feeling good right now,” Albernaz said.

Alexander, the 27-year-old utilityman, was hitting .312 with 12 doubles, two triples, four home runs, 29 RBIs and an .807 OPS in 82 games before landing on the injured list. His defensive versatility has also been on display, having made starts at third base (34), second (11), shortstop (seven), center field (six), left field (four) and right field (two).

As Albernaz said Friday, “We all miss him big time. His ability to play all over the field. Me personally being able to construct lineups knowing that Blaze can help fill a void and also during a game, being able to match up and knowing that Blaze can go for a couple of innings at a different position and hold it down pretty well. Yeah, I definitely miss that versatility.”