Orioles activate Jason Hammel

Jul 28, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Jason Hammel (39) throws in the second inning against the Boston Red Sox at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports /

The Baltimore Orioles, who reached the playoffs last season and even won a one-game wild card playoff game against the Texas Rangers, are in danger of missing the playoffs this year. They are in fourth place in the American League East, 9.5 games behind the Boston Red Sox, and have fallen behind the Tampa Bay Rays by four games for the second wild card spot. The New York Yankees are also 1.5 games ahead of the Orioles for that second wild card spot.

On Thursday, the Orioles got some good news that could help them make a late season run.

Starting pitcher Jason Hammel, who has missed the last six weeks with a strained forearm, has been activated from the disabled list.

According to Aaron Gleeman of Pro Hardball Talk, Orioles manager Buck Showalter hasn’t decided how he will use Hammel.

Hammel struggled to a 7-8 record with a 5.20 ERA this season, but he was very good last season. In 2012, Hammel was 8-6 with a 3.43 ERA in 20 starts. He struck out 113 batters in 118 innings.

The Orioles start a four-game set with the Chicago White Sox Thursday night. First pitch from Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Maryland, is scheduled for 7:05 pm EST.

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