Alvarez will begin working as a pitcher in minor league camp and serve as a reliever this season if all goes well, Jon Meoli of the Baltimore Sun reports.

EDGE Analysis

The Orioles requested Alvarez to change positions this spring due to deep organizational depth in the outfield. After going 0-for-11 in seven Grapefruit League games, he agreed it was time to expedite the switch. The right-hander gained pitching experience during his playing time in Cuba and says his repertoire include a fastball, curveball, and slider. In addition, Manager Buck Showalter says Alvarez would be able to serve as a DH between pitching experiences, a role which would dramatically increase his usefulness to the organization. Look for the 28-year-old to open the 2017 season in a minor league bullpen as he begins this major career transformation.