Even though the Orioles officially cut ties with outfielder Michael Bourn and infielder Chris Johnson on Monday, the team could re-sign both to re-structured deals in the coming days.
Bourn requested and was granted release from his minor-league deal on the day he had the opportunity to opt out. Johnson was unconditionally released.
The Orioles' minor-league deals with veteran players often include bonuses that force the team to pay additional salary to players who remain in camp beyond a certain day.
That appears to be the case for Bourn and Johnson -- being that since neither was going to make the Opening Day major league roster, the team could release them before the bonuses kicked in.