Hayden Penn a Cinch for Callup to Baltimore

Barring his complete meltdown, expect to see coveted prospect Hayden Penn starting for Baltimore no later than the beginning of June. Penn might have been called up this week after starter Daniel Cabrera went on the 15-day DL, but the Orioles didn't need a fifth starter until the middle of next week so reliever Chris Britton was called up. Penn remains at the top of the list for a rotation spot and if he doesn't replace Cabrera at the first opportunity, expect him to replace struggling Bruce Chen. Penn has a 1.93 ERA for the AAA Ottawa Lynx though he was beaten by Cleveland prospect Jeremy Sowers in his last two outings. Penn's callup is virtually certain because Cabrera will not return for at least two weeks as he is on a drug regimen of anti-inflammatories and rest for his sore shoulder. Once doctors are satisfied Cabrera's shoulder has returned to normal, he will endure a weeklong excercise discipline before requiring a couple of simulated games or perhaps a rehabilitation start that could keep him out beyond June 7, depending on his strength. Cabrera leads the majors with 39 walks and is 2-2 with a 5.23 ERA.