BALTIMORE -- Orioles fans may finally get a look at top pitching prospect Hunter Harvey.
Harvey was recalled from Double-A Bowie prior to Monday's game against the Blue Jays, with the O's optioning lefty Tanner Scott to Triple-A Norfolk to clear a roster spot.
"He provides the only real right-handed length that we have at this point," said Orioles manager Buck Showalter, when asked if he had seen enough of Harvey in big league camp to show him that he's ready.
"Probably not. Physically he's fine, but if not him then who? We had some options, but you bring up a non-roster guy out of options you lose him [on waivers] going back out. We think Hunter can serve a need here. Potentially help him and the organization."
Harvey, Baltimore's No. 4 prospect per MLB Pipeline, could soon make his Major League debut as added depth to an O's bullpen that has played two extra-inning games in three days. Making matters worse, the Orioles only got two-thirds of an inning out of Sunday's starter Mike Wright Jr. -- who could be available in the bullpen as early as Monday -- and Showalter said there are certain relievers he will not pitch in the series opener.
Harvey has not pitched above Class A, though he was slated to start his season with Bowie on Monday.
"Understand why he's here. He's the one guy that can provide length tonight if there's an issue," said Showalter, who chose not to answer whether this will be a temporary move or not.
"He's also potentially a pretty good pitcher ... this is a very good Major League pitcher's son. He's got the right amount of nervousness today ... knowing full well he may not get in the game. I hope he doesn't."
The 23-year-old Harvey was selected 22nd overall out of Bandys High School in Catawba, N.C., by the O's in the 2013 Draft. In his return from Tommy John surgery last season, he posted a 0.96 ERA in eight starts (18 2/3 innings) across three levels. He had yet to make a Minor League appearance this season.
Harvey is the son of former Major Leaguer Bryan Harvey, a two-time All-Star who pitched in parts of nine seasons with the California Angels and Florida Marlins from 1987-95.