Wieters returns
The Orioles have reinstated catcher Matt Wieters from the 15-day disabled list. To create a roster spot for Wieters, catcher Craig Tatum was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk.
Tatum is a victim of both a roster crunch and the fact that he had an option remaining. The Orioles didn’t want to try to pass utility man Jake Fox, who is out of options, through waivers because they were sure some other team would claim him. Fox is needed because he’s the backup for Ty Wigginton at first base and needs to be available when Wigginton begins to serve his three-game suspension, which he’s appealing.
Tatum did such a good job in spring training that he beat veteran Chad Moeller for the backup catcher’s job. Tatum had a reputation as a light-hitting, good-glove guy, but hit .271 (23-for-85) as Wieters’ backup and assumed the bulk of the catching duties when Wieters was hurt.
Wieters went on the disabled list July 10 with a strained right hamstring. He is hitting .245 with six homers and 29 RBIs in 77 games. He was in Sunday's starting lineup in the finale of a four-game series against Minnesota.
Posted July 25, 2010 at 12:25 p.m.
