Brian Roberts strikes out 3 times, but feels no back pain in Orioles’ 4-3 loss to Twins

Roberts returns for Orioles, who lose 4-3 to Twins

SARASOTA, Fla. — Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts tested his ailing back in a game Friday night for the first time this spring. Although he showed no sign of injury, his swing still apparently needs some work.

Roberts went 0 for 3 with three strikeouts in Baltimore’s 4-3 loss to the Minnesota Twins. Roberts spent the previous six weeks at camp receiving treatment and doing exercises to ease the pain of a herniated disk in his lower back.

After leaving in the sixth inning, the two-time All-Star said his body “felt pretty good” and he expects to be ready to play in Baltimore’s opener against Tampa Bay on April 6.

Scott Baker, who will pitch for Minnesota on opening day, retired the first 13 batters. He gave up two runs in 5 1-3 innings.