Orioles Send Bergesen Down To Minors

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) -- The Baltimore Orioles optioned struggling starter Brad Bergesen to Triple-A Norfolk, less than 24 hours after the right-hander picked up his third loss in four games.

Bergesen fell to 1-6 with a 5.36 ERA after allowing three runs and nine hits during Saturday's loss at Oakland. His six losses are tied for second most in the majors.

The move was announced after midnight Saturday because the team had not been able to talk to Bergesen. Bergesen was born in Fairfield, Calif., a small city 30 minutes north of Oakland, and left quickly following the game to be with friends and family.

The Orioles called up left-hander Pedro Viola from Double-A Bowie to replace Bergesen.

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