AL East Notes: Vance Worley named Orioles starter, Franklin Morales "weakness"

Nick Swisher had four productive seasons in New York and is set to return on a minor league deal.

Since Swisher has been plagued by knee issues in the past, it is unlikely the Yankees consider him more than just an emergency outfield option. Signing Swisher could put more pressure on Dustin Ackley to produce consistently.

Swisher will likely be the Yankees' primary first base option in Triple-A. But he should prove to be valuable as left-handed depth.

More from around the AL East:

• Eduardo Rodriguez and Carson Smith are getting closer to returning to the Red Sox.

• DRays Bay reviewed Jeff Passan's new book.

• Neither J.J. Hardy nor Adam Jones were in the Orioles' lineup Saturday. Hardy said he is no longer plagued by calf tightness, but Jones is out with soreness in the rib area.

• Bluebird Banter took an early look at the success of the Blue Jays' starting pitching.

• Over the Monster says the key to a trade involving Pablo Sandoval could be Melvin Upton.

• Vance Worley was named the Orioles' fifth starter.

• Pinstripe Alley reviews why Michael Pineda is giving up so much hard contact.

• Franklin Morales couldn't get his arm loose Friday night.