In order to make room for the contract selections of outfielder Endy Chavez and L.J. Hoes, the Orioles made a surprising move and designated Kevin Gregg for assignment. Infielder Ryan Adams was also designated for assignment.

Gregg was the team's closer before this season, when Jim Johnson replaced him. Gregg was paid well during his tenure with the Orioles, but was unquestionably a disappointment. He was 3-2 this year, with a 4.74 ERA, and was not seen much during recent weeks. Gregg might have sealed his fate by giving up four runs (three earned) on three hits and two walks during Sunday's 13-3 loss to New York.

Chavez batted .190, with two home runs and eight RBIs during 47 games with the Orioles and was designated for assignment on Aug. 4. He played 15 games for Triple-A Norfolk after being outrighted. Chavez could give the Orioles a possibility at the leadoff spot while right fielder Nick Markakis, who had been batting first, is out with an injury.

Hoes will be making his major league debut after hitting .300 with three home runs, 38 RBIs and 54 runs scored during 82 games with Triple-A Norfolk. Hoes was the Orioles' third-round pick during the 2008 First Year Player Draft out of St. John's High School in Washington, D.C.

Posted Sept. 11, 2012