Why was Dariel Alvarez optioned to Class A Advanced Frederick?
-- Jeff L., Washington, D.C.
There was an issue with Alvarez's work visa, and he wouldn't be able to go to Toronto this weekend and leave on Sunday night. The Cuban outfielder apparently has just a one-way green card, so things couldn't get worked out to permit him to go to Canada. Optioning Alvarez to Frederick instead of a higher affiliate is because the Class A Advanced season should be done early next week, making him eligible to rejoin the Orioles. They could also send Alvarez to Triple-A after that if they decide to not recall him.