Possible Orioles free agent targets
Let's face it, you like speculation. We like speculation.
And, at this point in the baseball calendar, all we can provide you is speculation -- we like to call it an educated guess -- as to whom the Orioles may target this offseason.
So take this list for what it is worth: an early look at some of the more intriguing names that are or could be available. (A new group of players will enter the market after Nov. 30, when clubs choose whether to tender contracts to their arbitration eligible players)
Also, keep in mind that Orioles executive vice president Dan Duquette prefers to build from the bottom up, so he's more focused on strengthening the farm system and club depth than he is buying high-ticket items.
But this is the first time in a decade-plus that Baltimore is a somewhat desirable destination. And surely the Orioles will do their due diligence in free agency, even if ultimately they don't make a splash.
Here are some names to keep in mind. There surely will be more to consider as the hot stove season progresses. The Orioles own free agents, such as pitcher Joe Saunders and outfielder Nate McLouth, are not included. But you can assume the club will make a run at those two.
No specific dollar figures or contract lengths are mentioned at this point. Even we think that speculation is too early.
-- Dan Connolly
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Josh Hamilton
The sense is that the Rangers will let the outfielder walk or, at the least, test the open waters. He is arguably the most talented player in baseball. But he is also one of the biggest risks. He's 31 and has battled alcohol and drug addiction throughout his adult life. He is injury prone and a recent eye issue that makes it difficult for him to shift focus contributed to a terrible end to 2012.
Orioles' bottom line: He'd fit perfectly in the middle of the order, but is probably too chancy for a team that has a small margin for error, payroll-wise. |
Comments (6)
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Templar8 at 3:37 PM November 09, 2012
I heard it mentioned that eventually Markakis would go to 1B. With Nate McClouth a fres agent who wants playing time, someone could talk to Nick about a move now. The 1B problem would be solved, McClouth ( a real player in my mind) could be signed and if Reimold doesn't come back strong, there's protection by moving Nick back to RF and moving Nate to LF. Then Davis could go to 1B. Just saying.
BuckPowden at 6:54 PM October 29, 2012
I like James Shields, Keppinger and Josh Hamilton but only if the price is right. The rest are 'has beens' or head cases.
Bernie19 at 12:47 PM October 25, 2012
Why does every analysis lately seem to imply that McLouth won't be back? Would hate to see him go.
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