Orioles to option infielder Coby Mayo, making room for the return of an injured player

The Orioles are expected to option infield prospect Coby Mayo to Triple-A Norfolk on Saturday, two sources with direct knowledge of the move told The Baltimore Banner, making room for the return of one of their injured players currently on a rehab assignment with the minor league affiliate.

Infielders Ramón Urías, Ryan Mountcastle and Jordan Westburg are all on rehab assignments with the Tides, although Urías seems to be the likeliest option to return first. He hit a home run Friday. Urías is recovering from a sprained ankle and manager Brandon Hyde indicated he could be ready before Westburg (broken hand) because Urías missed fewer games.

The corresponding move, however, remains to be seen.

Mayo didn't receive consistent playing time in his second stint with the Orioles. As a result, the 22-year-old struggled to find his rhythm in the major leagues. Mayo, who played third and first base for Baltimore, recorded four hits in 41 at-bats.

But Mayo, who received the Orioles' minor league player of the year award, excelled for Norfolk. He posted a .293 average with a .943 on-base-plus-slugging percentage. He will maintain his rookie eligibility for next year, as well.

The return of Urías or Westburg would provide a boost for an offense that has struggled for much of the second half before breaking out with five homers Friday. Westburg, who last played July 31, is hitting .269 with an .815 OPS. Urías is batting .252 with a .754 OPS.

Mountcastle will likely require more time. He's recovering from a sprained left wrist and made his first appearance in a game Friday.