Orioles activate Roberts, option Valencia

SAN DIEGO -- As expected, the Orioles reinstated second baseman Brian Roberts prior to Tuesday's game against the Padres.

Third baseman Danny Valencia was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk to clear a spot on the active roster for Roberts, who was on the paternity list over the weekend. He and his wife Diana had their first child, a son named Jax, on Friday.

"It worked out well," said Roberts of being able to witness the birth. "You never know with our schedule and what goes on. Once we kinda go past that last road trip, I kind of had the feeling that I was in the clear. … I'm really thankful to have been there and support my wife as much as she's been there for me the past couple of years. To be able to be beside her and support her, it was great."

The 35-year-old second baseman is batting .245 with two home runs and 15 RBIs in 30 games.

Valencia has hit .216 with five homers and 10 RBIs in 25 games for the Orioles.