Orioles select Irvin’s contract to start; Tate optioned, Avila designated for assignment

NEW YORK-The Orioles selected the contract of left-hander Cole Irvin from Triple-A Norfolk to start Wednesday’s game against the New York Mets. Irvin replaces Zach Eflin, who was placed on the 15-day injured list because of right shoulder inflammation on Tuesday.

Irvin was 6-5 with a 4.85 ERA in 21 games, 14 starts with the Orioles before he was designated for assignment on August 1st. After clearing waivers, Irvin was 0-1 with a 4.05 ERA in two games for Norfolk.

“We were going through our options last night and yesterday afternoon and Irvin makes the most sense,” manager Brandon Hyde said. “Fully stretched out, on turn, hoping he could have a good game for us today.”

The Orioles are listing Corbin Burnes, Cade Povich and Albert Suárez to start on Thursday, Friday and Saturday against Houston. Sunday’s starter is to be determined. Hyde declined to say whether the Orioles are switching to a six-man rotation.

“We’re trying to get through today’s game and we’ll see how we go,” he said.

Tate was recalled for Tuesday night’s game after Keegan Akin was placed on the paternity list. He didn’t pitch.

Avila, who as claimed off waivers from San Francisco on June 17th, had recently begun pitching after he was sidelined with a right shoulder impingement. Avila had a 67.50 ERA in three games for Norfolk. He allowed 10 runs on nine hits in 1 1/3 innings.