nate schierholtz

With their top free-agent choice for an outfield spot, Colby Rasmus, now off the board after agreeing to a one-year, $8 million deal with the Houston Astros, the Orioles will continue to explore other available options.

CHICAGO (AP) ¿ Jeff Samardzija thought he would dominate the way he often does. Instead, he walked away frustrated with another loss. Samardzija struggled in a rare rough outing and the Chicago Cubs lost 7-2 to Washington, completing a day-night doubleheader sweep on a rainy Saturday night.

There's a lingering question as to whether Nate McLouth can regain his past form for an entire season. The Orioles think he can and that he can provide more quiet leadership. That's why they made re-signing McLouth a top priority this offseason.

Team re-signed Nate McLouth, selected T.J. McFarland in Rule 5 draft in Nashville, Tenn.

The Orioles and outfielder Nate McLouth, one of their key stretch run players from last year¿s playoff season, agreed to a one-year deal Wednesday, essentially shutting the door on acquiring more major league outfielders, including free agent Nick Swisher.

Now that Nate McLouth has re-signed with the Orioles, agreeing to a one-year, $2 million deal with $500,000 additional available in bonuses based on plate appearances, what does it mean for the club this offseason and for the 2013 season?

The Orioles are pushing to add another outfielder, and if they can't re-sign free agent left fielder Nate McLouth, they are trolling for other options, including former New York Yankees first baseman-outfielder Nick Swisher and former Philadelphia Phillies right fielder Nate Schierholtz.

The Orioles met with the representatives of free-agent outfielder/first baseman Nick Swisher tonight here at the Winter Meetings, an industry source has confirmed.

As part of their continuing search to add depth and improve their roster, the Orioles have had multiple, face-to-face meetings with the representatives for pitcher Kevin Correia and outfielder Nate Schierholtz, according to an industry source.