Outfielder Xavier Avery was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk after veteran Nick Johnson was sent to the 15-day DL with a right wrist sprain suffered last night during a loss to the Angels. He fouled a ball off his wrist.

Avery, a speedster, was brought up last month and batted .217 during 15 games with the Orioles and .268 in Norfolk with 16 stolen bases. He also scored 39 runs.

Johnson, a veteran who has played first base for the Birds, is batting .207 with four homers and 11 RBIs.

Avery's call-up comes as the Orioles are scrambling for a real outfielder to go alongside Adam Jones. Injuries have depleted the club out there, and Avery should do well with this opportunity.

Posted June 28, 2012