Heston Kjerstad: Everything you need to know

The Orioles reinstated Kjerstad (hamstring) from the 60-day injured list and optioned him to Triple-A Norfolk on Thursday, Cordell Woodland of 105.7 The Fan Baltimore reports. Kjerstad has been on the injured list all season due to a hamstring strain he suffered just a few days before Opening Day. He's been playing in rehab games since May 9, however, slashing .235/.273/.314 with six RBI and five runs scored over 13 total games between Double-A Chesapeake and Norfolk. Now fully healthy, he'll remain with the Tides but reclaim a spot on Baltimore's 40-man roster, which gives him a much better chance at joining the big club later in the year if the Orioles' outfield depth is tested.

Kjerstad (hamstring) went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run in Sunday's rehab game with Triple-A Norfolk. Kjerstad appears to be close to wrapping up his minor-league rehab assignment, having gone 10-for-41 (.244) with two extra-base hits, six RBI, two walks and four runs scored across 10 games with Norfolk. The 27-year-old outfielder has been recovering from a strained right hamstring since spring training, but he could soon help fortify an Orioles outfield that remains without Dylan Beavers (oblique).

The Orioles transferred Kjerstad (hamstring) to the 60-day injured list Monday. Kjerstad was cleared to embark on a rehab assignment with Double-A Chesapeake on Saturday. His move to the 60-day IL means that he won't be available to make his 2026 season debut until late May, but Kjerstad's rehab stint will likely be lengthy given that he's recovering from a strained right hamstring that he suffered during spring training.