Arrieta to start against Yankees Thursday

Prospect to make big league debut

Bergesen to stay in bullpen or get demoted

Washington Nationals pitching phenom Stephen Strasburg is tentatively scheduled to pitch June 23, meaning he likely won't face the Orioles during the series scheduled June 25-27. … Orioles closer Alfredo Simon (left hamstring strain) is scheduled to throw 30 pitches Thursday, possibly in an extended spring training game. If all goes well, the club will activate him in time for the West Coast trip, which starts Monday. Samuel acknowledged that the club is considering using Will Ohman earlier in the game because the Orioles have only one save opportunity in Simon's absence. … Reliever Jim Johnson (right elbow inflammation) has started his throwing program. … Outfielder Felix Pie (upper back strain) took some swings off a tee and played catch. … Outfielder Corey Patterson (sore groin) was held out of the lineup Wednesday night against left-hander CC Sabathia, but he told Samuel he's ready to return. … Because of a vendor disruption problem, the Orioles-Ravens Rally Caps, scheduled to be given to the first 20,000 fans 15 and older on Saturday, might not arrive on time. If that is the case, fans in attendance will get a voucher to redeem at the ballpark or via mail for the caps once they arrive.

[e-mail]