Quick Hits - Fast O's News & the Rundown...

Well, the Baltimore Orioles beat the Minnesota Twins 5-3 yesterday in Grapefruit League action. Adam Loewen once again looked great as he only allowed one run and three hits over 6 innings.

As well, former Oriole Sidney Ponson looked sharp, as he shut out the Orioles over six innings.

The Baltimore Examiner has more on the growth of Adam Loewen as a pitcher. In addition, Kelly Thesier of Orioles.com has more on Loewen and the game yesterday.

However, there came some bad news out of yesterday’s game. Jay Payton, who was expected to the starting left-fielder for opening day, may be out up to 3 weeks after straining his hamstring. Jay Gibbons will play left for now, and it may be an opportunity for him to step and finally deliver on what he says he wants to do (play in the field).

In addition, Payton’s injury may have also given Kevin Millar the crucial at bats that he wished for. Millar will most likely serve as the DH or play first on occasion.

There’s more from orioles.com about the injury to Jay Payton.

Sam Perlozzo has named the starting rotation as reported by Jorge Arangure of the Washington Post. As expected, Erik Bedard is the number one starter, followed by Daniel Cabrera, Jaret Wright, Adam Loewen and Steve Trachsel.

In other news, Daniel Cabrera is officially the number two starter, and the Orioles know that Jaret Wright will have their back when retaliation is needed.

The Baltimore Examiner has a great piece on Aubrey Huff.

The Baltimore Sun has a Q&A with Jon Knott.

Spencer Fordin of Orioles.com has a piece on Sean Tracey.

Stan Goldberg of the Frederick News Post reports that the Orioles are glad to have moved their triple-A affiliate out of Ottawa, Canada and to warmer Norfolk, Va. As well, Stan is returning back to Maryland, and has been reporting on the progress both the Orioles and the minor league teams.