Jorge Mateo is out of the starting lineup for the Orioles Saturday.

Fantasy Impact

Mateo will head to the bench after going 0-for-3 Friday. Jackson Holliday will cover shortstop and bat eighth against the Blue Jays.

The Baltimore Orioles have included Jorge Mateo on their Opening Day 26-man roster.

Fantasy Impact

Initial reports suggested Mateo would miss the Opening Day roster as he recovers from UCL reconstruction surgery. However, he is ready to play and will serve a utility role for Baltimore.

Orioles manager Brandon Hyde confirmed Thursday that Jorge Mateo will not be on the Opening Day roster due to his ongoing elbow recovery, per Matt Weyrich of The Baltimore Sun.

Fantasy Impact

Although there was hope Mateo could ramp up in time after being cleared for Grapefruit League action in mid-March, the Orioles ultimately opted for caution. The 29-year-old infielder simply needs more reps before rejoining the big-league roster. In his absence, Livan Soto is expected to step into a utility role. Mateo’s speed and defensive versatility remain assets, and he should return early in the season once fully healthy.

Orioles manager Brandon Hyde says Jorge Mateo’s readiness for Opening Day will depend on at-bats he sees in Sarasota as well as getting his body into “game shape."

Fantasy Impact

“Just taking it day to day with (Mateo),” Hyde said. He is expected to be in a utility role for Baltimore this season when he is healthy.

Jorge Mateo (elbow) will make his spring debut Sunday. He will play shortstop and bat seventh.

Fantasy Impact

Mateo is recovering from Tommy John surgery and will see his first game action since the surgery. He is still likely to start the season on the IL but should play a role off the bench sooner than later.