Return in two weeks will be tough for Roberts

BOSTON -- Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts (right hamstring strain) is walking without a limp, but manager Buck Showalter said it will be "a challenge" for him to be ready within two weeks.

Roberts was placed on the disabled list April 5, so he could be available to the team as early as April 20, although it's unlikely he will return at that time. Roberts has yet to be cleared to start baseball activities while he rests and rehabs at the team's spring facility in Sarasota, Fla.

Ryan Flaherty has gotten the bulk of the playing time in place of Roberts, although Alexi Casilla started Thursday, with Showalter also getting outfielder Chris Dickerson into the lineup for the series finale in Boston. Nick Markakis served as designated hitter, a spot Showalter has said he will try to rotate around to help give the regulars a lighter day.