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Orioles call up versatile Phelps from Triple-A

BALTIMORE -- With Manny Machado going to the disabled list and J.J. Hardy sidelined with a left thumb sprain, the Orioles needed to bring a versatile infielder to Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Wednesday.

The O's purchased Cord Phelps' contract from Triple-A Norfolk and placed Machado on the DL with a right knee sprain. Phelps, who played seven positions for Norfolk, is viewed as a second and third baseman for Baltimore whose versatility is a nice perk.

"We have a lot of good options there," manager Buck Showalter said. "We take a lot of stock in what our people there every day tell us. That sounds very uncomplicated, but maybe it isn't done in a lot of places. Doesn't matter if you're on the roster or not on the roster, or what the financial commitment is. We're taking the best player."

Phelps was hitting .258 with seven home runs for Norfolk this season and has played especially well since the start of July. At the end of June, his batting average was all the way down to .219, but he's hit .336 since.

Phelps also has a bit of Major League experience. He hit .159 in 113 at-bats over three seasons with the Indians. The O's travel to Cleveland for a three-game series on Friday.

"I did look at the schedule and I noticed that was the first trip," Phelps said. "That'll be cool. Hopefully, I get in there and take a few from those guys."

David Wilson is an associate reporter for MLB.com.
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