Per Roch: Bench depth being addressed...

[BilboBaggins]

http://www.masnsports.com/school_of_roch/2011/11/orioles-getting-closer-to-adding-bench-help.html


Duquette continued to meet with clubs and agents today, and he'll remain busy through the night. He's hoping to sign a few free agents by early next week "to fill out our bench."

Asked specifically about the type of reserves he's targeting, Duquette said, "Infield help and backup catcher."

The GM meetings conclude tomorrow morning.

Good news. Wonder who these players are?

And, incredibly important...


Also, Duquette has started the process of hiring a new scouting director, which he expects to have done by the start of the winter meetings on Dec. 5. He also wants to complete "other personnel assignments in the organization" by that date.

[clapdiddy]

http://www.masnsports.com/school_of_roch/2011/11/orioles-getting-closer-to-adding-bench-help.html


Good news. Wonder who these players are?

Doumit and Punto?

[Frobby]

Also, Duquette has started the process of hiring a new scouting director, which he expects to have done by the start of the winter meetings on Dec. 5. He also wants to complete "other personnel assignments in the organization" by that date.

Glad to see things are moving along.

[El Gordo]

Jerry Hairston to take back 2B from BRob. What goes around comes around. :laughlol:

[BilboBaggins]

Jerry Hairston to take back 2B from BRob. What goes around comes around. :laughlol:

:vader:

But seriously, he wouldn't be the worst thing to happen to the Os. I'm shocked no one is asking for Larry Bigbie.

[Nigel Tufnel]

Doumit and Punto?

But if they sign Punto, then Gary Thorne will have to learn how to pronounce his name!

[SammyBirdland]

But if they sign Punto, then Gary Thorne will have to learn how to pronounce his name!

What's so special about Punto that he'd start with him? ;)

[Frobby]

But if they sign Punto, then Gary Thorne will have to learn how to pronounce his name!

Dennis Sar-far-te disagrees.

[oriole]

Doumit and Punto?

Doumit would make too much sense!

[El Gordo]

Doumit would make too much sense!Right, a back up C who can't catch.

[mskrulz]

Forgive me for not getting excited that we might sign Ryan Doumit and Nick Punto! Does that make me a bad Orioles fan?

[erb8472]

Forgive me for not getting excited that we might sign Ryan Doumit and Nick Punto! Does that make me a bad Orioles fan?

No I assume you wouldn't get excited about getting the same pair of socks for Christmas every year either.

[SammyBirdland]

No I assume you wouldn't get excited about getting the same pair of socks for Christmas every year either.

Wait, was that "socks" or "Sox"?

http://i.imgur.com/NLhCV.jpg

[mskrulz]

No I assume you wouldn't get excited about getting the same pair of socks for Christmas every year either.

I actually don't mind socks for Christmas. Funny things happen when you get older. I like cole slaw and I don't mind getting socks for Christmas. Doumit and Punto not so much...

[Frobby]

Right, a back up C who can't catch.

He has started 400+ games at C, and was Pittsburgh's principal backstop in 2008 and 2010. My guess is that we could tolerate his defensive deficiencies in a back-up role, so long as he puts up a .700+ OPS.

[JohnnyK27]

Doumit and Punto?

Doumit Yes ....Punto Hell no!!!

[JTrea81]

Varitek and Nix are the targets I'd like to see us land.

I'm glad to see Duquette realizes this team needs a strong bench and our minor leaguers that have failed as regulars simply won't cut it any longer.

With all the injuries this club has and has the potential of having with a few injury prone players, that quality depth is extremely important...

[JohnnyK27]

Varitek and Nix are the targets I'd like to see us land.

I'm glad to see Duquette realizes this team needs a strong bench and our minor leaguers that have failed as regulars simply won't cut it any longer.

With all the injuries this club has and has the potential of having with a few injury prone players, that quality depth is extremely important...

Why would you want a fossil like Varitek?

[LookinUp]

It's beginning to dawn on me that I remain disgusted by this franchise. The last year + has really brought me down. I honestly couldn't care less who we sign as backups. I'll only frankly care if they go cheap. At least that might mean that we're putting resources to where they can really help.

[SammyBirdland]

Varitek and Nix are the targets I'd like to see us land.

LOL @ Jason Varitek, who lost his spot to Jarrod Saltedhammunchies. That dude is just hanging on for tenure at this point I think.

[mskrulz]

Who starts Free Agency looking for back-up's first??? How about we fill out our starting lineup and then let the back-up's fall into place.

[JTrea81]

Why would you want a fossil like Varitek?

His experience, knowledge of calling a game (only catcher to catch 4 no hitters),and knowledge of the division.

I don't care if he can't throw out Prince Fielder, he can keep players off the basepaths and he won't have to worry about it.

He can be a mentor to Wieters and have him improve the facets of his game (such as switch hitting) even more.

If we want Wieters to be Varitek at the very least, why not have Varitek teach him?

[JTrea81]

Who starts Free Agency looking for back-up's first??? How about we fill out our starting lineup and then let the back-up's fall into place.

In case you haven't noticed, backups are going first. Duquette is smart to snap them up while the premium guys are taking their time to sign.

[JohnnyK27]

His experience, knowledge of calling a game (only catcher to catch 4 no hitters),and knowledge of the division.

I don't care if he can't throw out Prince Fielder, he can keep players off the basepaths and he won't have to worry about it.

He can be a mentor to Wieters and have him improve the facets of his game (such as switch hitting) even more.

If we want Wieters to be Varitek at the very least, why not have Varitek teach him?

Totally disagree with you on this one Trea ...Varitek is another washed up older player looking for 1 more season in the sun on Angelos's tab. Wieters doesnt need a mentor...He needs a guy that will hit/play defense well enough to get him 2 days per week off.

[Austin]

I don't care if he can't throw out Prince Fielder, he can keep players off the basepaths and he won't have to worry about it.

How is Varitek going to keep players off the basepaths? I don't really care who the backup is but I don't see why Varitek is anything special, he's been pretty abysmal.

[EddieMurrayfan]

His experience, knowledge of calling a game (only catcher to catch 4 no hitters),and knowledge of the division.

I don't care if he can't throw out Prince Fielder, he can keep players off the basepaths and he won't have to worry about it.

He can be a mentor to Wieters and have him improve the facets of his game (such as switch hitting) even more.

If we want Wieters to be Varitek at the very least, why not have Varitek teach him?

Why would we want Wieters to be Varitek? Don't we have higher expectations for Matt?

[erb8472]

Oh how I long for the days of Sal Fasano.

[CA-ORIOLE]

Bench depth ...... yawn.

[SammyBirdland]

Oh how I long for the days of Sal Fasano.

http://i.imgur.com/LohJN.png

[CA-ORIOLE]

http://i.imgur.com/LohJN.png

Man, you're on a roll.

[RavNMadMan]

His experience, knowledge of calling a game (only catcher to catch 4 no hitters),and knowledge of the division.

I don't care if he can't throw out Prince Fielder, he can keep players off the basepaths and he won't have to worry about it.

He can be a mentor to Wieters and have him improve the facets of his game (such as switch hitting) even more.

If we want Wieters to be Varitek at the very least, why not have Varitek teach him?

Wieters does not need a mentor. He needs a serviceable back-up

[wildcard]

Sign Ramon Castro for one year and trade for Ian Stewart who Colorado has said they might move in a trade instead of non tendering him.

[JTrea81]

Totally disagree with you on this one Trea ...Varitek is another washed up older player looking for 1 more season in the sun on Angelos's tab. Wieters doesnt need a mentor...He needs a guy that will hit/play defense well enough to get him 2 days per week off.

You do realize Varitek had a .723 OPS as a backup C and had the third highest SLG % for a backup C?

His only problem is throwing out baserunners, but like I said he should be able to call a game to minimize that problem.

And you get his knowledge of all the AL East hitters that he's seen for longer than Matt Wieters.

[Sports Guy]

Woohoo! .5 WAR players, here we come!

[JTrea81]

Woohoo! .5 WAR players, here we come!

Better than sub-replacement organizational filler.

The bench is important to fix while we are waiting for premium FAs to start to decide where they want to play.

Our bench being weak has also been a big part of the 14 year losing streak as injuries have killed this team season after season.

All the playoff teams typically have had strong or at least solid benches.

[glorydays]

Better than sub-replacement organizational filler.

The bench is important to fix while we are waiting for premium FAs to start to decide where they want to play.

Our bench being weak has also been a big part of the 14 year losing streak as injuries have killed this team season after season.

All the playoff teams typically have had strong or at least solid benches.

You cried all last offseason that signing Vlad would give us depth on the bench... we signed him, remember? Don't act like this was another Andy MacPhail thing.

[DrungoHazewood]

Right, a back up C who can't catch.

The Orioles wouldn't be the first team to go with an offense-first backup catcher. Despite the fact he made Frank cry, Matt LeCroy was the #2 catcher on a lot of good Twins teams and he was pretty much the Ryan Doumit of 6 or 8 years ago.

[mskrulz]

In case you haven't noticed, backups are going first. Duquette is smart to snap them up while the premium guys are taking their time to sign.

Smart to spend our "limited funds" on back-up's?! Last time I checked Ryan Doumit and Nick Punto ain't getting any team out of last place. Nick Punto was awful in Minny his last few years. I guess I'm just past the days where I got excited just because the O's were making random moves. Who cares who are back-up's are if we don't address the starters. It's time to step up and make some big time moves. Wake me up when that starts happening.

[weams]

Jason Varitek can no longer throw

or hit.

Matt Wieters is the best defensive catcher in baseball.

Maybe Tek can coach third.

At Norfolk.

[JTrea81]

Jason Varitek can no longer throw

or hit.

Matt Wieters is the best defensive catcher in baseball.

Maybe Tek can coach third.

At Norfolk.

He's one of the best hitting backup catchers in baseball.

[weams]

Wieters does not need a mentor.

He mentors.


Chuck Norris Jokes Are Based Off Stuff Matt Wieters Actually Did.

[DrungoHazewood]

He's one of the best hitting backup catchers in baseball.

Was. He's 39, will be 40 next year. Look at his ten bb-ref comps at age 39. More of them were out of baseball at 40 than continued to hit well. Walker Cooper and Bob Boone were the only ones on the list who were good hitters at 40.

[Peace21]

How about Eric Chavez? He wants to play in 2012 and could be a good bat off the bench.

[El Gordo]

The Orioles wouldn't be the first team to go with an offense-first backup catcher. Despite the fact he made Frank cry, Matt LeCroy was the #2 catcher on a lot of good Twins teams and he was pretty much the Ryan Doumit of 6 or 8 years ago.Why would anyone care what a guy hits in 125 AB. Unless he's VMart who is a legitimate DH/1B, the most important thing for a back up C is his catch and throw, and pitcher handling.

[RVAbird]

Why would anyone care what a guy hits in 125 AB. Unless he's VMart who is a legitimate DH/1B, the most important thing for a back up C is his catch and throw, and pitcher handling.

This is illogical. Hitting doesn't matter any less in proportion to defense because the sample size is smaller, all things being equal. Unless you're talking about a guy who somehow racks up a ton of defensive innings with very few PAs.

[Oriolidae85]

Would like to see Bill Hall back in the Al East, wonder how that would mesh with Hardy (whom he replaced at SS in WI)...but I like the potential upside and flexibility (although I'd keep him mostly as a 3B/OF).

Add Smoak to the list, trade Tillman for Justin w/the Mariners....if they go big for 1B! Would also like to see Sizemore as an option, as many have already said.

[El Gordo]

This is illogical. Hitting doesn't matter any less in proportion to defense because the sample size is smaller, all things being equal. Unless you're talking about a guy who somehow racks up a ton of defensive innings with very few PAs. A catcher is a primary defensive position, It has a huge impact on the game. On the other hand 125 AB is such a SSS it is impossibel to evaluate the impact on the teams RS. What matters there, are if the AB are good AB or poor ones, not the results. In 125 AB, Johnny Bench could look worse than Paul Baku. :rolleyestf:

[.500_OR_BETTER]

This would disappoint me if we were to sign a good back up catcher, our prev back ups were very..um..comical

Fordyce
Gil
Fassono
Moeller
Tatum

[RZNJ]

Who starts Free Agency looking for back-up's first??? How about we fill out our starting lineup and then let the back-up's fall into place.


Haha! I agree, BUT this tells you that we already do have our starting lineup set, save for possibly signing someone like David Ortiz to DH. The early signals have Chris Davis at 3B and Mark Reynolds at 1B. Reimold, Jones, and Markakis in the OF. Wieters at Catcher. Hardy at SS. Roberts or Andino at 2B. This ain't no joke!

[El Gordo]

Haha! I agree, BUT this tells you that we already do have our starting lineup set, save for possibly signing someone like David Ortiz to DH. The early signals have Chris Davis at 3B and Mark Reynolds at 1B. Reimold, Jones, and Markakis in the OF. Wieters at Catcher. Hardy at SS. Roberts or Andino at 2B. This ain't no joke!This is true. What we don't know is the makeup of the starting rotation.

[scOtt]

Haha! I agree, BUT this tells you that we already do have our starting lineup set, save for possibly signing someone like David Ortiz to DH. The early signals have Chris Davis at 3B and Mark Reynolds at 1B. Reimold, Jones, and Markakis in the OF. Wieters at Catcher. Hardy at SS. Roberts or Andino at 2B. This ain't no joke!
You may be right about the lineup being mostly set. Or not. I don't really know. I don't think DD looking at backups first proves that tho. Backups seem to be the early hot commodity so you have to be in on it now. If you wait til later you'll REALLY end up with the dregs. It's like a fantasy draft. If closers start disappearing earlier than you were planning on drafting one, you have to change your strategy. It's just a timing thing, not a sign.

[CA-ORIOLE]

This is true. What we don't know is the makeup of the starting rotation.

I'd say we have a pretty good idea of who will be competing for the jobs. Not like we're gonna get somebody good in Free Agency after the sharks are done. Maybe Texas will throw us another bone.

[nate22]

Why would anyone care what a guy hits in 125 AB. Unless he's VMart who is a legitimate DH/1B, the most important thing for a back up C is his catch and throw, and pitcher handling.

I think spending over $3 million for 125 at bats is a waste of money. No way Doumit takes less to come here for 125 at bats after already turning that down from the Dodgers. With that said, if he does get significant at bats at backup catcher, be prepared for some awful defense behind the plate.

http://www.buccofever.com/tag/neil-walker/

"He has a nice bat for the position he plays, but his often nightmare-ish defense combined with his inability to stay on the field has prevented me from ever growing too attached to him. "

[wildcard]

Haha! I agree, BUT this tells you that we already do have our starting lineup set, save for possibly signing someone like David Ortiz to DH. The early signals have Chris Davis at 3B and Mark Reynolds at 1B. Reimold, Jones, and Markakis in the OF. Wieters at Catcher. Hardy at SS. Roberts or Andino at 2B. This ain't no joke!

However, if the O's acquired Ian Stewart he would give Davis good competition at 3B. He is a good buy low candidate.

[Sports Guy]

You can get bench depth at any point during the offseason.

[JTrea81]

You can get bench depth at any point during the offseason.
Not this offseason. Bench players especially in the middle IF are flying off the shelves.

[DrungoHazewood]

Why would anyone care what a guy hits in 125 AB. Unless he's VMart who is a legitimate DH/1B, the most important thing for a back up C is his catch and throw, and pitcher handling.

Why would anyone care what a backup catcher fielded, since he's only there for a few hundred innings?

[DrungoHazewood]

Not this offseason. Bench players especially in the middle IF are flying off the shelves.

It's amazing how this offseason (no matter which one this is) is the year where you have to act this very minute or all the good players will be gone forever.

[Brendan25]

Also have to remember that if DD is looking for an upgrade in the rotation or in left field, it may be via trade rather then free agency.

[Biff Tannen]

I think spending over $3 million for 125 at bats is a waste of money. No way Doumit takes less to come here for 125 at bats after already turning that down from the Dodgers. With that said, if he does get significant at bats at backup catcher, be prepared for some awful defense behind the plate.

http://www.buccofever.com/tag/neil-walker/

"He has a nice bat for the position he plays, but his often nightmare-ish defense combined with his inability to stay on the field has prevented me from ever growing too attached to him. "

Agreed. I've suffered through some fantasy baseball seasons trying to count on Doumit as my starting catcher only to realize that his managers are afraid to put him behind the plate and his bat isn't quite good enough to get regular at bats elsewhere. If Jake Fox was on such a short leash, there's no way Buck would sign off on a guy with a possibly an even worse defensive reputation, at a higher price point.

[El Gordo]

I'd say we have a pretty good idea of who will be competing for the jobs. Not like we're gonna get somebody good in Free Agency after the sharks are done. Maybe Texas will throw us another bone.I haven't given up on the idea of a trade. But either way I expect that two of the rotation spots will be new

[El Gordo]

Why would anyone care what a backup catcher fielded, since he's only there for a few hundred innings?30 games vs 125 AB? You aren't seriously asking this question. The C impacts on every pitch of every inning of those 30 games.

[Don Quixote]

It's amazing how this offseason (no matter which one this is) is the year where you have to act this very minute or all the good players will be gone forever.

Oh, but they will, Drungo, they will! This is our last chance before the apocalypse! 12/21/2012! It's coming! AAAIIIIIIEEEEEEEEE!!!

[olehippi]

He has started 400+ games at C, and was Pittsburgh's principal backstop in 2008 and 2010. My guess is that we could tolerate his defensive deficiencies in a back-up role, so long as he puts up a .700+ OPS.

If that were the case, we would have kept Jake Fox as the backup - .756 OPS last year. Plus, being the backup catcher for a team that is arguably worse than the Orioles isn't a strong point. But overall, Doumit is a better hitter.

[MrOrange82]

30 games vs 125 AB? You aren't seriously asking this question. The C impacts on every pitch of every inning of those 30 games.

I kind of agree with this...not because the small number of ABs somehow "count for less" by virtue of being a small number, but because a catcher's defense (game calling, holding runners, etc.) is, to me, far more important than his offense.

[CA-ORIOLE]

I haven't given up on the idea of a trade. But either way I expect that two of the rotation spots will be new

That's certainly possible. I suspect Reynolds may be dealt. Maybe we could get somebody like David Hernandez. :) Seriously, I hope it's a young pitcher with options or maybe a Bedard type with some upside. I think we might as well keep Guthrie at this point. Barring injury/trade, I see the below list as being fairly solid (with Hunter being debatable).

Arrieta
Britton
Guthrie
Hunter

[El Gordo]

I kind of agree with this...not because the small number of ABs somehow "count for less" by virtue of being a small number, but because a catcher's defense (game calling, holding runners, etc.) is, to me, far more important than his offense. The problem with the 125 AB is no matter how good a hitter he might be, in that small number of PA's he might not be very productive. But even if he hit like Piazza for 125 AB, how many W's is that. And of course if he could hit like Piazza he would be a starting C.

[sakata_catching]

If that were the case, we would have kept Jake Fox as the backup - .756 OPS last year. Plus, being the backup catcher for a team that is arguably worse than the Orioles isn't a strong point. But overall, Doumit is a better hitter.
Doumit wasn't the backup C in Pittsburgh. And he's a much better hitter than Jake Fox.


The problem with the 125 AB is no matter how good a hitter he might be, in that small number of PA's he might not be very productive. But even if he hit like Piazza for 125 AB, how many W's is that. And of course if he could hit like Piazza he would be a starting C.
I would think he'd get 250+ PAs at DH/1b/RF, if he could manage to stay healthy. You're not signing him to be exclusively the backup C, you're signing him as as a super-sub.

[El Gordo]

That's certainly possible. I suspect Reynolds may be dealt. Maybe we could get somebody like David Hernandez. :) Seriously, I hope it's a young pitcher with options or maybe a Bedard type with some upside. I think we might as well keep Guthrie at this point. Barring injury/trade, I see the below list as being fairly solid (with Hunter being debatable).

Arrieta
Britton
Guthrie
HunterI'd debate both Hunter and Arrieta. Jake is coming off surgery and might start in the pen. He may end up being more effective there as well. We could trade Reimold, JJ and Hoes for Floyd. or some combination of Reimold, JJ, Tillman, Matusz, Reynolds, Adsams,or Guthrie, for some younger SP with more upside. We could sign a vet like Harang or Garcia. I see only Britton and Guthrie(barring a trade) as sure things.

[CA-ORIOLE]

I'd debate both Hunter and Arrieta. Jake is coming off surgery and might start in the pen. He may end up being more effective there as well. We could trade Reimold, JJ and Hoes for Floyd. or some combination of Reimold, JJ, Tillman, Matusz, Reynolds, Adsams,or Guthrie, for some younger SP with more upside. We could sign a vet like Harang or Garcia. I see only Britton and Guthrie(barring a trade) as sure things.

Pretty minor surgery for Arrieta. I don't see how that would effect him. I disagree he should be considered for the pen at this point. He's the highest upsdie starter we have imo. I like Hunter, but we'll see I guess.

[Sports Guy]

Not this offseason. Bench players especially in the middle IF are flying off the shelves.Those players are always available.

There is no hurry to make this a priority.

On top of that, we don't even know who the names are. They could be bringing back Deivi Cruz part 2.

[Brendan25]

Those players are always available.

There is no hurry to make this a priority.

On top of that, we don't even know who the names are. They could be bringing back Deivi Cruz part 2.

I agree with you but if DD feels like finding a backup catcher and a 4th outfielder is very important for this team next year, why not go get him now if he is there? If there is someone that the organization really likes in that role.

[Sports Guy]

I agree with you but if DD feels like finding a backup catcher and a 4th outfielder is very important for this team next year, why not go get him now if he is there? If there is someone that the organization really likes in that role.I guess it will just depend on who they get.

If they add a guy like DeJesus, good...I think he is an undervalued guy because of his defense and the fact that he had a poor year last year, offensively.

But if they are just adding your normal, run of the mill AAAA type player, then what's the hurry?

[Brendan25]

I guess it will just depend on who they get.

If they add a guy like DeJesus, good...I think he is an undervalued guy because of his defense and the fact that he had a poor year last year, offensively.

But if they are just adding your normal, run of the mill AAAA type player, then what's the hurry?

Completely agree.

[PaulFolk]

I agree with you but if DD feels like finding a backup catcher and a 4th outfielder is very important for this team next year, why not go get him now if he is there? If there is someone that the organization really likes in that role.At this point we don't even know who our 3rd outfielder is.

It just seems a little backwards to be signing bench guys and spare parts when there are still so many holes in the starting lineup and rotation. The O's should be prioritizing the starting players first-- you can always add backups later in the offseason.

[El Gordo]

At this point we don't even know who our 3rd outfielder is.

It just seems a little backwards to be signing bench guys and spare parts when there are still so many holes in the starting lineup and rotation. The O's should be prioritizing the starting players first-- you can always add backups later in the offseason.Unless you think there are better options for 1B than Reynolds, 3B and LF are the holes, with Reimold/Davis in LF and Davis/Andino at 3B. So these "bench" guys will options at both those positions IMO. A guy like Punto to play 3B and 2B and a guy like Kubel. a LH bat to share LF with Reimols=d and DH.

[clapdiddy]

At this point we don't even know who our 3rd outfielder is.

It just seems a little backwards to be signing bench guys and spare parts when there are still so many holes in the starting lineup and rotation. The O's should be prioritizing the starting players first-- you can always add backups later in the offseason.

Agree with you here. This is like shopping for tires before you know what car you are buying.

[Sports Guy]

At this point we don't even know who our 3rd outfielder is.

It just seems a little backwards to be signing bench guys and spare parts when there are still so many holes in the starting lineup and rotation. The O's should be prioritizing the starting players first-- you can always add backups later in the offseason.Right...The bench and BP do need improvements(I agree with Trea about how poor our bench has been and how it can be a hindrance) but still, those guys are always there and let's face it, as important as those areas are, they should be way down the "issues list".

[Brendan25]

Right...The bench and BP do need improvements(I agree with Trea about how poor our bench has been and how it can be a hindrance) but still, those guys are always there and let's face it, as important as those areas are, they should be way down the "issues list".

Like we said, I think it all depends on how much they like the guy.

[Fan4Life]

I haven't given up on the idea of a trade. But either way I expect that two of the rotation spots will be new

Agreed. We have been over this many times.. the offense was good enough this past season. The pitching is where the primary help needs to come from.

[Sports Guy]

Agreed. We have been over this many times.. the offense was good enough this past season. The pitching is where the primary help needs to come from.But what is it going to be like long term?

The lack of positional depth and talent is still troubling and will be until they really address it.

People see the pitching stats and say that is what we need to concentrate on...I disagree with that.

While I do agree that the pitching needs to be improved, EVERYTHING has to be concentrated on and we have got to bring in some legit offensive prospects.

[Brendan25]

But what is it going to be like long term?

The lack of positional depth and talent is still troubling and will be until they really address it.

People see the pitching stats and say that is what we need to concentrate on...I disagree with that.

While I do agree that the pitching needs to be improved, EVERYTHING has to be concentrated on and we have got to bring in some legit offensive prospects.

I think we need to find some better offensive prospects but that should come via the draft. We have been so wrapped up on pitching, which is fine, but the pitching has taken so long to develop that we haven't been able to transfer to the bats. I feel like if Matusz and Britton and Arrieta and Bundy become what we need them to become then we will start to develop more dangerous offensive weapons through our farm.

[Fan4Life]

But what is it going to be like long term?

The lack of positional depth and talent is still troubling and will be until they really address it.

People see the pitching stats and say that is what we need to concentrate on...I disagree with that.

While I do agree that the pitching needs to be improved, EVERYTHING has to be concentrated on and we have got to bring in some legit offensive prospects.

And I agree with you that the long term solutions need to be addreased. I just don't see that happening during this offseason. Perhaps at the break of the 2012 season we'll see some guys become available or some of our MiLB guys may up their value and open some doors.

[El Gordo]

But what is it going to be like long term?

The lack of positional depth and talent is still troubling and will be until they really address it.

People see the pitching stats and say that is what we need to concentrate on...I disagree with that.

While I do agree that the pitching needs to be improved, EVERYTHING has to be concentrated on and we have got to bring in some legit offensive prospects.But the decision apparently has been made to not trade the pieces that would bring in the kind of long term depth you are talking about. So unless we get it through amateur FA we need to improve the SP so that some of that can be used in trades. Signing bench guys now could free up a Reynolds or Reimold to be traded for a SP, like Floyd or Danks.

[DrungoHazewood]

The problem with the 125 AB is no matter how good a hitter he might be, in that small number of PA's he might not be very productive. But even if he hit like Piazza for 125 AB, how many W's is that. And of course if he could hit like Piazza he would be a starting C.

You could say exactly the same thing about defense. In 200 or 300 innings you could throw a few balls into center field, and happen to catch a disproportionate number of innings from the guy on the staff who has 11 wild pitches, and suddenly your defensive ratings are worst in the league.

[DrungoHazewood]

30 games vs 125 AB? You aren't seriously asking this question. The C impacts on every pitch of every inning of those 30 games.

What's the impact of the catcher on each of those pitches? I think you're assuming the impact is quite a bit greater than what's warranted by the evidence.

[JayThomas]

:vader:

But seriously, he wouldn't be the worst thing to happen to the Os. I'm shocked no one is asking for Larry Bigbie.

Yesterday Roch mentioned that we're looking for an outfielder ...

[grimed1]

Doumit,I think wants too much money. Punto might also be priced out of what O's are willing to offer. Kubel is going to get alot of offers. I think they wanted Doumit as a backup catcher,DH, 1B.

[NCRaven]

Is it possible that they could be talking to agents and GMs about free agent and tradeable starters and backup guys at the same time? But, it's easier to get the smaller deals done so they might come first?

We b*tch that they can't multitask, but when they do, we complain because the smaller, easier things might get done first.

If you see a player that you think fills a role on the team, why would you wait? Fill that role with the player you want and move on instead of waiting on starters who probably won't want to make a decision this early in the bidding process anyway.

The team has sucked so bad that complaining has become an ingrained response, even over silly things like the timing of deals for utility players. I'm hoping we sign another closer to a $7mil deal so I can see heads explode online. :D

[Richmond Bird 9]

Has anyone seen anything on the type of bench that Buck wants ? I think he wants a veteran bench. Ryan Adams seemed to have sat on the bench for 2 weeks, Fox didn't play much, Tatum was so good that he had 87 AB's in 31 games, Reimold sat while Pie played. The bench has to be Buck's bench. So I will help Buck out some and pick his bench.
Ryan Doumit.....Bats S..D/H-C-1B-LF-RF (super sub)
Robert Andino...Bats R..2B-SS-3B-OF
Bill Hall............Bats R..3B-SS-2B-CF
Corey Patterson..Bats L..OF (speed off the bench)
Wilken Castillo...Bats S..C-3B-OF-2b-SS (he is the 25th man on the roster and should get more than 87 AB's)
Note: Doumit is signed to be the D/H and backup C. Castillo (limited Ab's) batted .313 for the Reds in 08/09.

This flexibility would allow Buck to mix and match better depending on the pitching matchup and or to give a player some rest. Also Sundays does not have be be a B squad game (all reserves in). Castillo/Patterson and or Hall could be signed as minor league F/A agents and invited to S/T or added to the 40 man roster after the rule 5 draft.

[JayThomas]

Not this offseason. Bench players especially in the middle IF are flying off the shelves.

We already have our backup middle IF. His name is Robert Andino. What we need is a starting 2B.

[JayThomas]

It just seems a little backwards to be signing bench guys and spare parts when there are still so many holes in the starting lineup and rotation. The O's should be prioritizing the starting players first-- you can always add backups later in the offseason.

I'm guessing Duke agrees with you, and he's talking to other GM's about the parts that we really need. I think the message from Roch might be a little off target. I think/hope that Duke is suggesting that we might obtain the bench players first, because they're easier to acquire / more willing to sign quickly. The stuff we really need is a little more difficult to obtain quickly.

At least that's what I hope.

[CA-ORIOLE]

Signing bench guys now could free up a Reynolds or Reimold to be traded for a SP, like Floyd or Danks.

That's a reasonable thought I guess. I guess that assumes a "bench guy" becomes a starter/platoon player of some sort or that an existing bench guy becomes a starter. It would make more sense to me if a bench guy was qualified as minor league depth. That would give us some more flexibility.

[Sports Guy]

We already have our backup middle IF. His name is Robert Andino. What we need is a starting 2B.We should have 2 players capable of playing SS and/or second because of BRob and Hardy's injury history.

[TakebackOPACY]

Due to the labor deal that's about to break, teams don't know the 'compensation' status for some of the potential starters. The labor deal will affect teams' decisions on whether to offer arbitration to certain players. The compensation system will also affect the value of certain players who hit the market. And the value of those players who are directly affected by the changes in the compensation system will subtly influence the value of the other players on the market.

[jamalshw]

Has anyone seen anything on the type of bench that Buck wants ? I think he wants a veteran bench. Ray Adams seemed to have sat on the bench for 2 weeks, Fox didn't play much, Tatum was so good that he had 87 AB's in 31 games, Reimold sat while Pie played. The bench has to be Buck's bench. So I will help Buck out some and pick his bench.
Ryan Doumit.....Bats S..D/H-C-1B-LF-RF (super sub)
Robert Andino...Bats R..2B-SS-3B-OF
Bill Hall............Bats R..3B-SS-2B-CF
Corey Patterson..Bats L..OF (speed off the bench)
Wilken Castillo...Bats S..C-3B-OF-2b-SS (he is the 25th man on the roster and should get more than 87 AB's)
Note: Doumit is signed to be the D/H and backup C. Castillo (limited Ab's) batted .313 for the Reds in 08/09.

This flexibility would allow Buck to mix and match better depending on the pitching matchup and or to give a player some rest. Also Sundays does not have be be a B squad game (all reserves in). Castillo/Patterson and or Hall could be signed as minor league F/A agents and invited to S/T or added to the 40 man roster after the rule 5 draft.

Who is Ray Adams?

[JayThomas]

Due to the labor deal that's about to break, teams don't know the 'compensation' status for some of the potential starters. The labor deal will affect teams' decisions on whether to offer arbitration to certain players. The compensation system will also affect the value of certain players who hit the market. And the value of those players who are directly affected by the changes in the compensation system will subtly influence the value of the other players on the market.

Great point.

[DrungoHazewood]

Who is Ray Adams?

O's called him up (http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=adams-002ray) from Eugene in the Class D Far West League, just took him a while to report.

[NCRaven]

O's called him up (http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=adams-002ray) from Eugene in the Class D Far West League, just took him a while to report.

I checked the link and was wondering, where was he at between '43-'46? Then I remembered that World War II thing! :)

[grimed1]

Roch says the O's have not reached out to Doumit. I am not sure that is true. I think his price is a little too high. People say you don't need to move fast on backup catcher but look at the list and who is left. A couple of guys are signing today.


http://www.masnsports.com/school_of_roch/2011/11/still-trying-to-reel-in-a-catcher.html

[The Rick]

There is plenty of bench strength on this team, we just need starters.

[BilboBaggins]

Roch says the O's have not reached out to Doumit. I am not sure that is true. I think his price is a little too high. People say you don't need to move fast on backup catcher but look at the list and who is left. A couple of guys are signing today.


http://www.masnsports.com/school_of_roch/2011/11/still-trying-to-reel-in-a-catcher.html

Here's the list:

Josh Bard (34)
Ramon Castro (36)
Ryan Doumit (31) - Type B
Jake Fox (29)
Ramon Hernandez (36) - Type A
Rob Johnson (28)
Jason Kendall (38)
Gerald Laird (32)
Jose Molina (36) - Type B
Dioner Navarro (28)
Ivan Rodriguez (40)
Brian Schneider (35)
Kelly Shoppach (32)
Chris Snyder (31) - Type B
J.R. Towles (28)
Jason Varitek (40) - Type B

Roch likes Molina.

What about Shoppach or Bard for just one year?

[JayThomas]

We should have 2 players capable of playing SS and/or second because of BRob and Hardy's injury history.

I'm assuming that the front office is discounting BRob to near nil and they're looking for a starting 2B. If BRob's healthy enough to start the year then they'll just have to find AB's for this player X. I expect that he'd end up starting the majority of games at 2nd next year, however.

[Mr Snuffleupagus]

Here's the list:

Josh Bard (34)
Ramon Castro (36)
Ryan Doumit (31) - Type B
Jake Fox (29)
Ramon Hernandez (36) - Type A
Rob Johnson (28)
Jason Kendall (38)
Gerald Laird (32)
Jose Molina (36) - Type B
Dioner Navarro (28)
Ivan Rodriguez (40)
Brian Schneider (35)
Kelly Shoppach (32)
Chris Snyder (31) - Type B
J.R. Towles (28)
Jason Varitek (40) - Type B

Roch likes Molina.

What about Shoppach or Bard for just one year?

You can put me in this camp as well. Definitely a Buck kinda guy. Solid at everything but running and abdominal exercises. You're not going to get a better "backup" catcher.

[bnw7870]

I like Shoppach and Molina either one is good for me.

[El Gordo]

I think Molina, Punto, and Kubel are Buck's boys.

[erb8472]

Daniel Murphy is available.

http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york/mets/post/_/id/36633/murphy-available

[erb8472]

http://www.masnsports.com/school_of_roch/2011/11/orioles-getting-closer-to-adding-bench-help.html


Good news. Wonder who these players are?

And, incredibly important...

Don't worry it could be worse. We could be going after relief pitching. We've only tried to address that for about 10 years now.

[shylock]

Don't worry it could be worse. We could be going after relief pitching. We've only tried to address that for about 10 years now.

I'm actually comfortable with the bullpen, but I'd rather have Gregg on the DL. A Koji return would be pleasant. If we actually had one starter, I'd be as happy as a Tiny Tim Christmas.

[SteveO]

I like Shoppach and Molina either one is good for me.

Agree either would be far adequate. Like Molina a little more but could live with either.

[SteveO]

I'm actually comfortable with the bullpen, but I'd rather have Gregg on the DL. A Koji return would be pleasant. If we actually had one starter, I'd be as happy as a Tiny Tim Christmas.

Amen. Think they have plenty of arms to fill out a bullpen with JJ closing. I would consider Koji as he was so effective for this team and genuinely loves playing here.

[thiscat41]

Would love to get him. Played LF,1B and 3B last yr. .320 avg. isn't bad, either.

(Talking about Daniel Murphy)

[TGO]

Daniel Murphy is available.

http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york/mets/post/_/id/36633/murphy-available

He's a decent 3B target. Better fielder than Reynolds and (probably) Davis.

[Brendan25]

Is Murphy really someone that is going to significanlty improve this lineup? Is having Davis/Reynolds/Murphy in whatever positional rotation that much better then Davis/Reynolds/Scott?

[erb8472]

Is Murphy really someone that is going to significanlty improve this lineup? Is having Davis/Reynolds/Murphy in whatever positional rotation that much better then Davis/Reynolds/Scott?

I think Murphy is appealing because you can plug him into so many different positions. Plus he's not going to kill you with his bat.

[Brendan25]

I think Murphy is appealing because you can plug him into so many different positions. Plus he's not going to kill you with his bat.

Yes but what would be the cost of trading for him, and is he worth that cost considering who we already have on the roster? I think I'd rather have Davis, Reynolds, and Scott at this point then trade for Murphy to take Scott's place. I don't think Murphy is that big of an upgrade.

[JTrea81]

Yes but what would be the cost of trading for him, and is he worth that cost considering who we already have on the roster? I think I'd rather have Davis, Reynolds, and Scott at this point then trade for Murphy to take Scott's place. I don't think Murphy is that big of an upgrade.

Murphy was a 3.2 fWAR player last season and was an excellent fielder at all the IF positions.

[erb8472]

Yes but what would be the cost of trading for him, and is he worth that cost considering who we already have on the roster? I think I'd rather have Davis, Reynolds, and Scott at this point then trade for Murphy to take Scott's place. I don't think Murphy is that big of an upgrade.

I don't understand why you feel like Murphy would have to replace Scott?

[Bradysburns]

Right, a back up C who can't catch. I think calling him a C is a little strong. I mean, he's not that bad.

[Bradysburns]

Murphy was a 3.2 fWAR player last season and was an excellent fielder at all the IF positions.Perhaps... perhaps. But what was his gWAR?

http://www.metalinjection.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Gwar_00.jpg

[grimed1]

Here's the list:

Josh Bard (34)
Ramon Castro (36)
Ryan Doumit (31) - Type B
Jake Fox (29)
Ramon Hernandez (36) - Type A
Rob Johnson (28)
Jason Kendall (38)
Gerald Laird (32)
Jose Molina (36) - Type B
Dioner Navarro (28)
Ivan Rodriguez (40)
Brian Schneider (35)
Kelly Shoppach (32)
Chris Snyder (31) - Type B
J.R. Towles (28)
Jason Varitek (40) - Type B

Roch likes Molina.

What about Shoppach or Bard for just one year?

Laird signed with Texas. Doumit is down to two AL teams. The list grows shorter.

[clapdiddy]

Laird signed with Texas. Doumit is down to two AL teams. The list grows shorter.
I'll take any of them. I just hope we get a guy who doesn't hit like my mother.

[Sports Guy]

Shoppach is easily my #1 choice.

[TGO]

I'll take any of them. I just hope we get a guy who doesn't hit like my mother.

They all do. Does your mother call a good game? Can she throw out 35% of baserunners? Will she play for league minimum?

[clapdiddy]

They all do. Does your mother call a good game? Can she throw out 35% of baserunners? Will she play for league minimum?
She's good at blocking the plate...but that's a dinner plate. :)

[Farmboy]

id prefer doumit with his versatility and bat

[grimed1]

I guess we still have a chance. We are in the American League.

[Nick The Stick]

Shoppach is easily my #1 choice.

:thumbsup1::agree:

[Dipper9]

They all do. Does your mother call a good game? Can she throw out 35% of baserunners? Will she play for league minimum?

Is she better than Moose's Mom?

[clapdiddy]

Is she better than Moose's Mom?

Hey...don't compare my Mom to Moose' Mom. I've heard stories... :D

[clapdiddy]

Laird signed with Texas. Doumit is down to two AL teams. The list grows shorter.
Doumit to the Twins.

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/11/twins-to-sign-ryan-doumit-.html (Link)

[Coker]

Well, you can cross Doumit off the list.


Ryan Doumit agrees to 1-year, $3M deal with #Twins, says BB source. Deal includes undisclosed performance bonuses. Pending physical.
https://twitter.com/#!/jcrasnick/status/137615729745858560

[OsnRavensallday]

I wouldn't mind us gettin Ivan Rodriguez for a year to back up Wieters, sense we lost out on Doumit. I wouldn't mind seein Casey Blake signed for a cheap 1 or 2 year deal, can play both 1B/3B . We have Andino that can play up the middle and third, Laynce Nix would be a nice pick up to go with for Reimold's platoon leftfield partner.

[TonySoprano]

Orioles sign Matt Antonelli
http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/antonma01.shtml
Now, we can print the playoff tickets at last. :)


@danconnollysun Dan Connolly
Antonelli will compete for a big league job and will receive a big-league deal. He can play 2b and 3b. Played with Syracuse last year

@Britt_Ghiroli Brittany Ghiroli
Antonelli is right-handed bat. Expected to add competition to infield spots. Spent most of last yr w. Triple-A Syracuse hitting .297 w 8HRs

[glorydays]

Here is a nice write-up about Antonelli (http://motorcitybengals.com/2011/11/17/tigers-potential-free-agent-target-matt-antonelli/). Looks like a somewhat promising signing.

[CA-ORIOLE]

Orioles sign Matt Antonelli
http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/antonma01.shtml
Now, we can print the playoff tickets at last. :)

He was pretty highly regarded a few years ago. Looks like he hit a wall in 2008. Got some OBP skills.

[RZNJ]

A nice pickup who might turn out to be nothing. However, after being drafted as a 3B he's become a pretty good defensive 2B. He's also show flashes of power in the minors, with 21 homers a AA in 2007. He was terrible in AAA for 2 years and the missed 2010. Looks like he reworked his swing a bit and finished very strong last year, with 8 doubles and 5 homers in August. Maybe he found something. Maybe it's nothing. I like the pickup though. He can play 3B and SS (in a pinch) as well.

[El Gordo]

A nice pickup who might turn out to be nothing. However, after being drafted as a 3B he's become a pretty good defensive 2B. He's also show flashes of power in the minors, with 21 homers a AA in 2007. He was terrible in AAA for 2 years and the missed 2010. Looks like he reworked his swing a bit and finished very strong last year, with 8 doubles and 5 homers in August. Maybe he found something. Maybe it's nothing. I like the pickup though. He can play 3B and SS (in a pinch) as well.I'd like to see him at 3B, it would really improve the IF D.

[RZNJ]

I'd like to see him at 3B, it would really improve the IF D.


Most likely. He'll get a chance if the plan is to have Reynolds at 1B.

[crawjo]

I'm happy that he's doing this first. A better backup catcher is a cheap way to improve this team fairly significantly, I think, both by getting better production on days when Wieters is not starting and then also being able to give Wieters a little bit more rest, which might make him more productive overall. And with Roberts's status and the possibility that Andino will have to be a close to everyday player, we need another infielder, so long as people feel Ryan Adams is not a solution there.

One thing I want to see from the Orioles next year is a stronger 1-25 roster, so that black holes like Felix Pie don't drag this team down further than necessary.

[GoldGlove21]

I'm happy that he's doing this first. A better backup catcher is a cheap way to improve this team fairly significantly, I think, both by getting better production on days when Wieters is not starting and then also being able to give Wieters a little bit more rest, which might make him more productive overall. And with Roberts's status and the possibility that Andino will have to be a close to everyday player, we need another infielder, so long as people feel Ryan Adams is not a solution there.

One thing I want to see from the Orioles next year is a stronger 1-25 roster, so that black holes like Felix Pie don't drag this team down further than necessary.

I like the idea of upgrading our team when we can, but this team needs to upgrade positions verses backups. If we have the best backups in the game, but holes in the starting rotation, 1B and 3B in addition to possibly LF and 2B than we are going to have some real problems IMO. This team still needs a great deal of help.

[MarylandAaron]

Here is a nice write-up about Antonelli (http://motorcitybengals.com/2011/11/17/tigers-potential-free-agent-target-matt-antonelli/). Looks like a somewhat promising signing.Word. Really liking this guy's minor league stats. It's a wonder this guy didn't get more of an opportunity in the bigs. So is he a decent defender at SS or 2B?

[crawjo]

I like the idea of upgrading our team when we can, but this team needs to upgrade positions verses backups. If we have the best backups in the game, but holes in the starting rotation, 1B and 3B in addition to possibly LF and 2B than we are going to have some real problems IMO. This team still needs a great deal of help.

Of course, but one of the pieces of low-hanging fruit for us right now is improving our bench. It doesn't take many resources to find a decent backup catcher and utility infielder, which is why it's good to get these things out of the way now while the market for big time players "percolates."

[Bradysburns]

Of course, but one of the pieces of low-hanging fruit for us right now is improving our bench. It doesn't take many resources to find a decent backup catcher and utility infielder, which is why it's good to get these things out of the way now while the market for big time players "percolates."

I think we could be shopping for more than this - yes, we need a backup catcher. But I suspect no position on this team is "in the bag" right now... which puts the bench up for grabs. I think DD could wind up landing another power bat for the bench - a reserve corner outfielder/first baseman type of guy. Someone who might pinch hit for our left fielder in a two-outs-bottom-of-the-ninth situation... But more of a veteran.

[StrawDawg]

I think we could be shopping for more than this - yes, we need a backup catcher. But I suspect no position on this team is "in the bag" right now... which puts the bench up for grabs. I think DD could wind up landing another power bat for the bench - a reserve corner outfielder/first baseman type of guy. Someone who might pinch hit for our left fielder in a two-outs-bottom-of-the-ninth situation... But more of a veteran.

Lance Nix?

[section18]

Eric Fryer 26, a catcher with the Pirates, has been designated for assignment. In limited action mostly in September he hit .345 with 5 HR's and 16 RBI's. The Orioles should try to acquire him.

[MrOrange82]

Eric Fryer 26, a catcher with the Pirates, has been designated for assignment. In limited action mostly in September he hit .345 with 5 HR's and 16 RBI's. The Orioles should try to acquire him.

I could be wrong, but I'm pretty sure those are AA stats. He also hit .203 in about the same number of games at AAA.

[StottyByNature]

http://www.masnsports.com/school_of_roch/2011/11/orioles-getting-closer-to-adding-bench-help.html


Good news. Wonder who these players are?

And, incredibly important...

Bench depth is a concern for good teams. We should be more concerned about our starters.

[Frobby]

Bench depth is a concern for good teams. We should be more concerned about our starters.

This is not an either/or situation, in my opinion. You want a team where the pieces fit together. A good bench can make the starters better, by getting them rest and by getting them out of games where the situation doesn't fit their strengths. And, a good bench comes in handy when starters are injured. I'm all in favor of a strong bench, regardless of whether we make moves to strenthen our starting lineup.

[BilboBaggins]

This is not an either/or situation, in my opinion. You want a team where the pieces fit together. A good bench can make the starters better, by getting them rest and by getting them out of games where the situation doesn't fit their strengths. And, a good bench comes in handy when starters are injured. I'm all in favor of a strong bench, regardless of whether we make moves to strenthen our starting lineup.

One could make an argument that the manager not using his available bench strategically has more of an effect than signing great bench depth. I happen to agree with your assessment, but wasn't Buck criticized about not using his RP correctly during a few games last year?

If we augment our bench support and Buck doesn't use them, wouldn't that defeat the purpose?

[jiminnj]

I think we could be shopping for more than this - yes, we need a backup catcher. But I suspect no position on this team is "in the bag" right now... which puts the bench up for grabs. I think DD could wind up landing another power bat for the bench - a reserve corner outfielder/first baseman type of guy. Someone who might pinch hit for our left fielder in a two-outs-bottom-of-the-ninth situation... But more of a veteran.

Seems like our LF was up with 2 outs in the bottom of the ninth in our last game of the year. He certainly didn't need hitting for then. Drive up the gap in right center, off the track over the wall for a ground rule double, scoring the tieing run. A bigger hit than the one that Andino got.

[Frobby]

One could make an argument that the manager not using his available bench strategically has more of an effect than signing great bench depth. I happen to agree with your assessment, but wasn't Buck criticized about not using his RP correctly during a few games last year?

If we augment our bench support and Buck doesn't use them, wouldn't that defeat the purpose?

Yes. Personally, I didn't have big problems with how Buck used his bench last year, except I think he should have given Fox more playing time early on, coming off a very strong spring training. I also didn't have a big problem with how he used the bullpen, since it is my personal belief that moving Gregg out of the closer role would have just moved the problems he created to some other inning of the game.

[scOtt]

Yes. Personally, I didn't have big problems with how Buck used his bench last year, except I think he should have given Fox more playing time early on, coming off a very strong spring training. I also didn't have a big problem with how he used the bullpen, since it is my personal belief that moving Gregg out of the closer role would have just moved the problems he created to some other inning of the game.

I don't have a problem either. Like you said earlier, a good bench can help the starters, and the whole team. If Buck had a chance to PH for Adams last year but all he had on the bench was Matt Angle, what's the point? We need to improve the starters (if we can) AND improve the bench so Buck has options. We need to improve ALL 25 spots if we can.

[Capn Vivi]

You have to figure that until the big fish FA Pitchers (Oswalt, Wilson, Buehrle) sign, the more mid-level guys are going to use their rivals contract negotiations as leverage. Duquette has a point in letting the market set itself, at least in this case. The Orioles certainly aren't spending a lot of money, that's out the door. Improving where you can is most important.

I think the FO is hoping someone in that mid-level FA Pitching market can be had for 3 years/$30m or less. I'd like to see them target Edwin Jackson if he's in their price range (though that's doubtful, he's almost certainly getting 4+ years).