Gausman likely to stay in bullpen down the stretch

BALTIMORE -- Orioles manager Buck Showalter said Kevin Gausman probably won't get the call to join the starting rotation during the September pennant race.

Gausman's pitched effectively in relief since rejoining the team, and Showalter said the team is trying to be careful with him.

"He was pretty sore; I don't want to say sore, but stiff after his last outing," Showalter said. "He was a two- or three-day off for me. He was unavailable the last couple of days. I'm careful about yo-yoing young players that haven't done it. I don't think it's good business."

Gausman threw three times in relief over five days earlier this month, giving up two runs in 5 2/3 innings.

But he blew away some hitters, finishing with eight strikeouts and three walks. Still, last year's first-round pick in the First-Year Player Draft is adjusting to life in the bullpen now.

Gausman had a 2-4 record with a 5.77 ERA heading into Sunday's game against the White Sox. He's got 34 strikeouts and 12 walks in 39 innings this season.