Craig Albernaz Shares Update on Injured Orioles Player Blaze Alexander

Blaze Alexander is day-to-day after suffering back spasms during the Baltimore Orioles’ 9-5 loss to the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday night.

Orioles manager Craig Albernaz provided the update after Alexander was forced out of the game in the ninth inning. The utility infielder had gone 1-for-3 with a run scored before the injury.

The Baltimore Sun’s Andy Kostka first reported Albernaz’s update on X as Baltimore dealt with another difficult night on the injury front.

Alexander’s back locked up during a defensive sequence late in the game, leaving the Orioles without another important piece of their infield depth.

The setback comes less than two weeks after Alexander returned from a lengthy absence caused by a non-displaced fracture in his left hand. He had missed nearly seven weeks after being hit by a 95.5 mph fastball against the Kansas City Royals.

Alexander has been productive when available this season. Through 93 games, he is batting .303 with a .358 on-base percentage, four home runs and 31 RBIs.

Baltimore could have another adjustment to make if Alexander needs time beyond Wednesday. Gunnar Henderson also exited Tuesday’s game with a knee contusion, potentially leaving the Orioles even thinner around the infield.

Jackson Holliday could see increased work at second base if Alexander is unavailable, although the Orioles have yet to indicate that the latest injury will require an extended absence.

The loss also further damaged Baltimore’s postseason hopes. The Orioles fell to 70-76 and remain four games behind the final American League Wild Card spot with only 16 games remaining.

Baltimore will close its homestand Wednesday against Cleveland, with Shane Baz scheduled to start for the Orioles. After another injury-filled loss, the club will be hoping Alexander’s day-to-day designation proves to be a short-term concern.

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