Machado plays first extended spring game

BOSTON -- Orioles third baseman Manny Machado went 2-for-4 over five innings in his first extended spring game on Saturday morning.

Manager Buck Showalter said the report on Machado, who also played the field, was good, and the plan is for the 21-year-old to take his scheduled off-day on Sunday before playing seven innings at third base on Monday. Machado will serve as designated hitter on Tuesday.

Assuming he sticks to the plan, Wednesday would be the earliest date for Machado to start his rehab assignment. The Orioles are optimistic when he does go to a Minor League affiliate that he won't need the full 20 days allotted since Machado has been doing baseball activities for months.

Machado is rehabbing back from left knee surgery in October.