The Orioles and the San Francisco Giants appear to be close to a trade that would exchange veteran outfielder Joe Carter for a right-handed relief pitcher -- either Julian Tavarez or Jose Mesa, a former Oriole who was dealt to the Giants last night by the Cleveland Indians.

Tavarez, 25, is on the disabled list with a strained lateral muscle beneath his right arm. He is scheduled to be activated Monday when the Orioles travel to Cooperstown, N.Y., to play in the Hall of Fame Game. Tavarez is 3-3 with a 2.71 ERA in 63 innings in 39 games. He has battled control trouble, walking 27 against 37 strikeouts.

Mesa also has struggled this year, going 3-4 with a 5.17 ERA and only one save in 44 games. He lost the Indians' closer's job to Mike Jackson.

The move would come at a time when the Orioles have added options in the outfield. Jeffrey Hammonds, who has two at-bats since June 2 because of a bulging disk in his neck, is expected to play against the Seattle Mariners this weekend, said manager Ray Miller.

Late O's game

Last night's Orioles-A's game at Camden Yards was interrupted by a rain delay of 1 hour, 7 minutes and did not end in time to be included in this edition. A complete report can be found in later editions or on the Internet at http: //www.sunspot.net. For a report on last night's game and other Orioles information, call SunDial at 410-783-1800, ext. 5023 (in Anne Arundel County, call 410-268-7736, ext. 5023).

Orioles tonight

Opponent: Seattle Mariners

Site: Camden Yards

Time: 7:35

TV/Radio: Ch. 13/WBAL (1090 AM)

Starters: Mariners' Bill Swift (9-5, 5.35) vs. O's Mike Mussina (7-5, 3.62)

Tickets: Scattered singles

Pub Date: 7/24/98