Melvin

Mora

Both players are currently with the Dodgers after posting nice numbers in Triple-A, but Orioles officials said it would take more than that to move Mora. And we wouldn’t be surprised if they had a hard time keeping straight faces when they said it.

Acting manager Sam Perlozzo said he wanted to give Mora a night off anyway, and ''he’s ready to go if we need him.’'

Mora had an MRI Saturday night. He’ll meet with doctors today to discuss the extent of the injury.

Mazzilli had considered Larry Bigbie and Luis Matos for the job, but sticking with Mora looks like the right move. If he were guaranteed the job all season long, his value could get a $3-$4 boost. Since Mazzilli could always change his mind at some point, a $1-$2 increase is more appropriate.

Mora might have the same illness that kept Tony Batista out of four games.

Mora took batting practice yesterday, looking tentative and weak on most of his swings.

Mora has a swollen right hand. He may miss a few games this week but it’s okay to leave the AL’s leading hitter active.

The AL leader in batting average still got on base twice -- via walk and hit-by-pitch -- on an 0-for-2 night.

Mora should be considered day-to-day pending the results of today’s visit.

The O’s are hoping Mora will be able to play with he is eligible to come off the DL next weekend, but it depends on how soon Mora is able to hold a bat and begin taking swings.