Valencia recalled after Johnson optioned to Triple-A

BALTIMORE -- The Orioles recalled Danny Valencia from Triple-A Norfolk on Sunday, and the right-hander batted seventh as designated hitter.

The Orioles had optioned reliever Steve Johnson after Saturday's game, so Valencia filled his roster spot. It's an extra spot that was created when second baseman Brian Roberts was placed on paternity leave Friday.

The team has an off-day Monday before it begins a West Coast National League road trip. Valencia could be an extra position player when the Orioles lose the DH and will likely need to pinch-hit for pitchers later in games.

"It's always nice to be here. It's where everyone wants to be, so I'm just excited and looking forward to it," Valencia said.

Valencia has hit .200/.243/.443 in sporadic playing time this season, mostly as a designated hitter against lefties.

"I think it's all about how much consistent playing time you can get to really get in a groove. When you're not playing too much, it's very difficult, especially up here, to stay in the groove and constantly hit," Valencia said. "It's tough -- you've just got to find a way to get it done."

Roberts' paternity leave concludes after Monday, so he could be reinstated, and manager Buck Showalter expects Roberts will fly with the team Monday to San Diego.