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Machado takes part in Opening Day ceremonies

BALTIMORE -- Although he's on the disabled list, third baseman Manny Machado will still enjoy Monday's Opening Day, with the 21-year-old scheduled to trot out on the orange carpet and receive his American League Gold Glove Award.

"[Stinks] not to be out there playing, but it's Opening Day no matter ... if I'm on the field or off the field," Machado said. "It is the best day of the year. It's the start of a new journey, and to be a part of this, it's a great privilege. I'm going to put on this Orioles uniform, I'm part of this team. I know I can't help them right now, but I can help them later in the long run. I'm enjoying this moment, every possible second I can. It's a privilege to put on the Orioles' Opening Day uniform."

Machado, who is recovering from left knee surgery, will fly back to Sarasota, Fla, on Tuesday to continue his rehab with Ryan Flaherty getting the start at third for Opening Day.

"I'm doing stuff on the ground. Not necessarily running, but we are at the point where we need to start strengthening it a little more so we can get back to sprinting and 100 percent," Machado said of his progression. "My 100 percent is there, it's just when I get there and how. So we are just doing strengthening stuff at this point and get the quads, knee stable enough."

Brittany Ghiroli is a reporter for MLB.com. Read her blog, Britt's Bird Watch, and follow her on Facebook and Twitter @britt_ghiroli.
Read More: Baltimore Orioles, Manny Machado