Avery next to be called up

Norfolk outfielder Xavier Avery looks like he’ll become the latest Triple-A player to have his contract purchase by the Orioles. Although the team has not yet announced the move, agent Victor Menocal with Excel Sports Management tweeted, “Congrats to @excelsm client Xavier Avery #Orioles for getting called up to the #Baltimore today!” The tweet was posted at 4:15 p.m. Saturday. 

Orioles manager Buck Showalter said Saturday afternoon that the team would probably add a 13th position player on Sunday, and it looks like Avery will be that player. Avery has hit leadoff in the majority of the Tides’ games this season, posting a .273 average with five home runs, 16 RBIs and eight stolen bases. The 22-year-old is one of Norfolk’s most athletic players and will provide depth to an Orioles outfield that currently has Nolan Reimold and Endy Chavez on the disabled list.  

–Greg Luca