BALTIMORE (Map, News) - When the Orioles head to Seattle for a three-game series starting Tuesday, it will be center fielder Adam Jones’ first time at Safeco Field as a visitor.

Jones was traded to the Orioles during the offseason, along with closer George Sherrill and three minor leaguers, for pitcher Erik Bedard.

“They were the first team to give me a chance,” Jones, who played 73 games during the past two seasons for Seattle, said. “I thank them for that.”

So far, the trade has worked out well for the Orioles. Jones, 22, has started all but two games in center field and is batting .242 with a home run and five RBI after going 1-for-4 in a 7-1 loss to New York on Sunday. Sherrill (1-0) has converted all six of his save opportunities.

Bedard, however, has been on the disabled list with hip inflammation since April 9.

Jones saw his return to Seattle as just another series, and wasn’t worried how he’d be received by the Mariners’ fans.

“Hopefully, they’ll cheer,” he said. “If they don’t, I’m on the opposing team now, so it doesn’t matter.”

avitelli@baltimoreexaminer.com