free agency thread

[GOSKINS_08]

This thread is for rumors of who the O's are intersted in..I have heard Alfonso Soriano and Mark Mulder.

[REDPepper]

The Orioles are thinking about getting in on the Daisuke Matsuzaka bidding, writes Jeff Zrebiec.

The posting system is deeply flawed. For example, here's one sabotage scenario that might interest a team like Baltimore, which is faced with the possibility that Matsuzaka will land with either of the big market monsters in its division, the Yankees or the Red Sox. The Orioles could post a huge bid -- say $50 million -- and blow everybody else out of the water. With exclusive negotiating rights, they then could offer Matsuzaka a take-it-or-leave-it, strategically structured bid, like a 10-year, $5 million-per-year deal. Matsuzaka and agent Scott Boras, with just 30 days to negotiate and with no ability to generate a competing bid from another major league team, would have the stark choice of taking the Orioles' lowball offer or remaining in Japan.

If Matsuzaka came to the U.S. under those circumstances -- and that would seem very unlikely -- the Orioles would have a frontline pitcher for less than the total package that everybody expects it will cost to get Matsuzaka. And if he were to stay in Japan after such a lowball offer, the Orioles would get their posting fee back and would still serve their own purposes, as well, by keeping him out of the hands of the Red Sox and Yankees.

Many people in baseball are already conceding that the Yankees will get him, writes Dave Lennon, but the Mets will be involved.

• No matter what happens with Matsuzaka and the other free agents, you can be assured that huge amounts of money will be spent.

This is what this offseason will be like, with the individual teams thriving but faced with a weak free-agent market: Imagine that it's Dec. 26, and you've got 30 different teenagers, their pockets stuffed with Christmas cash from grandpa and grandma and mom and dad, all headed to the mall at the same time. There is only one Xbox left on the shelf, however, only one great pair of basketball shoes; in fact, there's really not much good stuff at the mall. But the 30 teenagers are going to spend their money, no matter what. Some contracts signed this offseason are going to make you shake your head in wonder, or in shock, depending on your perspective. "Whatever scenario [of spending] you think of," said one AL executive yesterday, "tack on another 20 percent. I think that's what you're going to see."

It may be, by the way, that we're all going to be sitting around for a couple of months waiting to see where a lot of these guys land. The arbitration deadlines that once drove the free-agent market are not in place anymore, leaving spring training as the real deadline for agents and teams to get deals completed.

[skinfan2k]

orioles have said no way to soriano..

[the burgundy and gold]

we wont get anyone good. remember who the owner is?

[fdarugar]

Im down for the chinamen

[TheDoyler23]

Matzusaka would require winning a bid just to negotiate a contract. No chance the Orioles (or any sane team) will post 30 million in order to give him a 70 million deal. That's Yankee lunacy right there.

[Maxito]

when does free agency start

[TheREALJBird]

This thread doesn't matter, O's will just get some overpriced, over the hill bum. I got a bad feeling Gary Sheffield will be here next year:doh:...****ing angelos

[GOSKINS_08]

when does free agency start

Its already started hasn't it? Or maybe not.

[twenty-eight]

I really hope we dont get mulder. He's the perfect angelos signing, "big name" and overpriced and oh yeah, over the ****ing hill

[Maxito]

Its already started hasn't it? Or maybe not.
I think it starts 15 days after the World Series. I know ESPN has some special about some meetings,thays when the free agent period usually begins.

[twenty-eight]

oh right, the winter meetings

[Spaceman Spiff]

just for fun, lets come up with an alternative title for this thread...

my ideas are...

"Let's watch the O's FO F-Up again"

"The offseason of our discontent"

"What fartknockers will the O's get?"

[twenty-eight]

just for fun, lets come up with an alternative title for this thread...

my ideas are...

"Let's watch the O's FO F-Up again"

"The offseason of our discontent"

"What fartknockers will the O's get?"


:laugh::laugh::laugh:

Nice work!

[REDPepper]

Matzusaka would require winning a bid just to negotiate a contract. No chance the Orioles (or any sane team) will post 30 million in order to give him a 70 million deal. That's Yankee lunacy right there.
read the article i posted in this thread, it explains why we should and could do it

[TheDoyler23]

I could see us getting a semi-damaged Mulder, and some vet RP's.

I can see us making a big offer to Soriano/Lee, or "getting into the fray" for him just for the sake of putting our name out so we "tried."

Burnitz anybody? ...ugh

[skinfan2k]

2007 Baltimore Orioles

It was suggested I take a look at the Orioles' prospects for 2007, so here we go.

Mike Flanagan's contract obligations (http://mlbcontracts.blogspot.com/2005/01/baltimore-orioles_112321768568552760.html):

C - Ramon Hernandez - $6.5MM
C - Danny Ardoin - $0.38MM
1B -
2B - Brian Roberts - $3.075MM
SS - Miguel Tejada - $12MM
3B - Melvin Mora - $8MM
IF - Brandon Fahey - $0.38MM
LF -
CF - Corey Patterson - $2.8MM
RF - Nick Markakis - $0.38MM
OF - David Newhan - $0.55MM
OF - Adam Stern - $0.38MM
DH - Jay Gibbons - $5MM

SP - Erik Bedard - $1.4MM
SP - Daniel Cabrera - $0.385MM
SP - Kris Benson - $7.5MM (can demand trade)
SP - Rodrigo Lopez - $3.75MM
SP - Adam Loewen - $0.8MM

RP - Chris Ray - $0.38MM
RP - Chris Britton - $0.38MM
RP - Todd Williams - $0.775MM
RP - James Hoey - $0.38MM
RP - John Parrish - $0.6125MM
RP - Kurt Birkins - $0.38MM
RP - Brian Burres - $0.38MM
RP - Brian Finch - $0.38MM
RP - Sendy Rleal - $0.38MM

The contracts should be in the ballpark of $50 million after accounting for some raises. The club entered 2006 with a $72.5MM payroll, so there is money to burn. The Orioles have been somewhere between contention and rebuilding for a few years now, kind of like the Cubs. They can't seem to commit, and this offseason looks like no exception.

Plenty of options to fill the first base void; the O's were a bit below average (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/Statistics/Team/playerstats?team=bal&seasonYear=2006&split=79&seasonType=2&type=reg&pagetype=batting) at the position in '06. Free agent options: more Kevin Millar, maybe Nomar, Aubrey Huff, Craig Wilson, or Shea Hillenbrand. The trade market could include Gary Sheffield, Mark Teixeira, Carlos Delgado, Todd Helton, Chris Duncan, Chris Shelton, or Adam Dunn.

Many of the above-mentioned names would be suitable solutions in left field as well. Left field also opens up the following possibilities: Alfonso Soriano, Pat Burrell, Moises Alou, Carlos Lee, David Dellucci, Frank Catalanotto, Geoff Jenkins, Kevin Mench, or Luis Gonzalez. Of course we know that Burrell has said he won't waive his no-trade for the Orioles.

There's even talk of moving Melvin Mora to left field. He last played there in 2003. That opens up still more options to find that big-name slugger.

Some of these names are inspiring, others make Orioles fans wince. Ken Rosenthal recently spoke to a GM (http://www.orioleshangout.com/forums/showthread.php?t=40018) who thought the O's would win the Soriano derby at 6/94. Personally I wouldn't be surprised to see something less splashy, like Millar, Alou, Dellucci, or Gonzalez. The O's have been left standing in the game of free agent musical chairs in recent years. On the other hand, this is the same club that signed Miguel Tejada and Albert Belle.

Lopez will be offered arbitration (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/10/30/AR2006103000995.html), and Benson probably will not demand a trade. The rotation appears pretty much set. Baltimore will need both Cabrera and Loewen take a step forward (entirely possible) to have decent starting pitching. Still, there is a chance for change - Lopez or Benson could be moved (perhaps to the NL) and a mid-tier free agent could be signed. I could see Jeff Suppan.

The O's will need a lot of bullpen help, as most of their starters don't average six innings (http://www.rotoauthority.com/2006/10/orioles_look_fo.html). Maybe a deal for an innings eater like Salomon Torres or Scot Shields could work. Darren Oliver, Ron Villone, or Jamie Walker could be added via free agency.

To me, this Orioles club is fairly Cub-like. A few stars, some foolish long-term deals, a promising core of young pitching. The Cubs don't have a Markakis type position player, though. In my opinion neither club should be trying to compete in 2007, especially the one in the AL East. With some luck and shrewd moves the Orioles might find a way, yes. Is this really a shrewd front office though?





Posted on November 03, 2006 at 07:00 AM in 2007 Team Outlooks (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2007_team_outlooks/index.html), Baltimore Orioles (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/baltimore_orioles/index.html) | Permalink (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2006/11/2007_baltimore_.html) | Comments (15) (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2006/11/2007_baltimore_.html#comments) | TrackBack (0) (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2006/11/2007_baltimore_.html#trackback)

[GOSKINS_08]

Anybody hear about us possibly trading Benson and a minor leaguer for Gary Sheffield?

[skinfan2k]

21. Moises Alou - Orioles. Baltimore is a place where Mo can shift between left field and DH to preserve his knees. He led all free agents in slugging percentage but will have a hard time staying on the field.

28. Jeff Suppan - Orioles. Suppan is primed to be one of the worst signings this winter. I can see the Orioles making such a move. Someone will sign up for four years of mediocrity at $30MM+. As usual, the O's will probably miss out on the first tier guys.

according to mlbtraderumors.com

[Maxito]

Anybody hear about us possibly trading Benson and a minor leaguer for Gary Sheffield?

Yeah I read about that, but the Yankees rejected the offer.

[r2k64]

Yeah I read about that, but the Yankees rejected the offer.
Yeah, and they probably don't want to deal Sheff within the division either is another reason why they rejected it imo.

[the burgundy and gold]

28. Jeff Suppan - Orioles. Suppan is primed to be one of the worst signings this winter. I can see the Orioles making such a move. Someone will sign up for four years of mediocrity at $30MM+. As usual, the O's will probably miss out on the first tier guys.


haha so true :laugh: :doh:

[dbridge005]

we dont need gary sheffield or any more hitting...

its all about the pitching

[Maxito]

Here is an article in their official website telling us what they are looking for, and also the free agent signing period is suppose to start on the 12th of November.

http://baltimore.orioles.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061106&content_id=1735156&vkey=news_bal&fext=.jsp&c_id=bal

[skinfan2k]

oh please dont refer to the orioles website.. what they are giving is false hope

[skinfan2k]

Kevin Mench for Rodrigo Lopez?

Rodrigo Lopez has been on the trading block for what seems like years. And anyone who has taken the time to count the Brewers outfielders know that some of them--including Kevin Mench and Geoff Jenkins--will be on the block this offseason. So, it's only logical that the Brewers and Orioles have chatted about Lopez for Mench.

I wrote about Lopez in a post on my blog when it was first reported that the Brewers had inquired after him--he had a disastrous year last year, posting a 5.90 ERA, but he's not too old, he's been a reliable innings eater, and he has had a couple of decent years pitching in the brutal AL East. A switch to the NL Central, with a steady diet of the Pirates and Astros, could do wonders for his fantasy value.

Contract-wise, the deal makes sense: both are entering their final year of arbitration, and both are coming off of years that could make a case for non-tenders. Rosenthal points out in the article that having Lopez would free up the Brewers to trade Doug Davis, another innings eater coming off a so-so year. Their contract situations are the same, but Davis probably has more trade value than Lopez (if only because Davis's ERA wasn't near 6 last year).

Posted by Jeff Sackmann

[mbraun2]

i think i heard peter gammons on espn saying that the yankees were hot on suppan at 4/40!!!! why would you ever do that? Starting pitching is the most overpriced free agent commodity. We should take a page from the Marlins and stock the minors with good arms.

[turtle]

per espn: Orioles agree with ex-Tigers lefty reliever Walker

Anybody got info on this guy? Is he good?

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2664466

[the burgundy and gold]

lets hope he's not a Steve Kline...

[GOSKINS_08]

per espn: Orioles agree with ex-Tigers lefty reliever Walker

Anybody got info on this guy? Is he good?

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2664466

Looks like he had good stats last season..This is from yahoo sports


"The 35-year-old reliever was 0-1 with a 2.81 ERA this year for the AL champion Detroit Tigers (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/teams/det/). He has a 15-16 career record with five saves and a 3.95 ERA. He spent his first two major league seasons with Kansas City and the last six with the Tigers."

[skinfan2k]

key: 35 yr old.

[twenty-eight]

he's solid..

blue jays are about to sign the big hurt

[the burgundy and gold]

he's solid..

blue jays are about to sign the big hurt


yeah i saw that, im not really sure what to think about it. he'll be retiring any year now so it's kinda a waste of money

[oriolesfan93p]

key: 35 yr old.

That is not as bad as you make it out to be, with pitchers anyways, especially bullpen pitchers and even more so with situational bullpen pitchers who may only come in for 1 or 2 left handed hitters.

The question is at that age not will he be able to perform but will he be able to stay healthy. 35 isn't so bad, I would think differently if the age was 37 or 38.

[skinfan2k]

i was telling the age, because the orioles are in no position of winning big in the next few years unless we strike gold with our young pitchers and fielders.

something must be done, either trade the veterans for prospects or trying to buy and win now

[twenty-eight]

2 yrs 18mil for the big hurt

[TheDoyler23]

So when do we sign Millar and Moises Alou?

*sigh*

[skinfan2k]

• As the Orioles continue to talk to Atlanta about a possible Tim Hudson-Hayden Penn trade, they are also in the bidding for Justin Speier.

[the burgundy and gold]

• As the Orioles continue to talk to Atlanta about a possible Tim Hudson-Hayden Penn trade


there goes more young pitching talent :mad:


:doh:

[mbraun2]

Yea really, I mean we've suffered enough already, damnit Flannagin, just build for the future....if we make these trades for ONE pitcher what do we acomplish? well what we accomplish is providing the starter to game one of the NLCS for Benson...woohoo. Either stack our minors (which we actually are doing a better job of now that Syd Thrifty is dead).. or sell the team off and hire the cast of Major League....

[Maxito]

there goes more young pitching talent :mad:


:doh:

I wouldn't mind bringing Hudson here to the Orioles. Brings a quality pitcher that knows how to win. Yeah I know he didn't do well with the Braves, maybe he was still getting accustomed to the NL. But if he pitches like he did with the A's our rotation would be set.

Another note, The Baltimore Sun reports that we made an offer to Carlos Lee for a 6 year deal worth 80-90 million dollars per year. Is this the year that the FO is getting off their butt and getting someting done.

Here is the link
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/baseball/bal-orioles1121,0,3105555.story?coll=bal-sports-headlines

[TheDoyler23]

I wouldn't mind bringing Hudson here to the Orioles. Brings a quality pitcher that knows how to win. Yeah I know he didn't do well with the Braves, maybe he was still getting accustomed to the NL. But if he pitches like he did with the A's our rotation would be set.

Another note, The Baltimore Sun reports that we made an offer to Carlos Lee for a 6 year deal worth 80-90 million dollars per year. Is this the year that the FO is getting off their butt and getting someting done.

Here is the link
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/baseball/bal-orioles1121,0,3105555.story?coll=bal-sports-headlines


How much is an honest commitment towards winning and how much is window dressing to look like you're trying?

damn, we were so close to Sexton...
Konerko...
Delgato...
Pavano...(thank goodness!)

aw shucks...

So many guys in the past few years have signed that look like a BARGAIN compared to the current FA market. Is lee worth 90 Million? Probably not, but its not my money.

[the burgundy and gold]

damn, we were so close to Sexton...
Konerko...
Delgato...
Pavano...(thank goodness!)



yep and don't forget Vlad Gerriro(sp) we were very close to signing him that year we got Tejada.

[Maxito]

Angels signed Gary Mattews to a 5 years deal worth about 50 million. Saw it on ESPN News.

DId they overpay for him or what

[GOSKINS_08]

Angels signed Gary Mattews to a 5 years deal worth about 50 million. Saw it on ESPN News.

DId they overpay for him or what

I saw that..Matthews really cashed in on 1 great defensive season, and 1 pretty good offensive season.

[GOSKINS_08]

I wouldn't mind bringing Hudson here to the Orioles. Brings a quality pitcher that knows how to win. Yeah I know he didn't do well with the Braves, maybe he was still getting accustomed to the NL. But if he pitches like he did with the A's our rotation would be set.

Another note, The Baltimore Sun reports that we made an offer to Carlos Lee for a 6 year deal worth 80-90 million dollars per year. Is this the year that the FO is getting off their butt and getting someting done.

Here is the link
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/baseball/bal-orioles1121,0,3105555.story?coll=bal-sports-headlines

I hope we get Carlos Lee

[ineedhelp]

is there any way to be optimistic about this offseason? cuz the way its looking is that we're gunna pick up some random guy off the market who failed with another team

[the burgundy and gold]

Pierre is signed for a 44 million dollar deal for 5 years. Unbelievable. :doh:

[Maxito]

Pierre is signed for a 44 million dollar deal for 5 years. Unbelievable. :doh:


these contracts for medicore players is getting out of hand. As I read somewhere else, I think there is a need for MLB to have a salary cap.

[Maxito]

Well scratch Carlos Lee of the list, he already signed with the Astros. 6 yeal deal worth around 90 million dollars

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/4357742.html

[the burgundy and gold]

damnit Maxito beat me to it by 6 minutes. Lee signs 6 year 100 mil. dollar deal with Astros.

http://sportsline.com/mlb/story/9826098

[r2k64]

Well scratch Carlos Lee of the list, he already signed with the Astros. 6 yeal deal worth around 90 million dollars

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/4357742.html
Well, what a surprise. The O's at their finest. The rest of our offseason will probably be re-signing Millar, and some old relief pitcher. Yay O's. :doh:

[GOSKINS_08]

We offered what $80-$90 million for Carlos Lee?

[the burgundy and gold]

We offered what $80-$90 million for Carlos Lee?


i heard 90

[Kevin101]

100 million for Carlos Lee??!?!?! God damn!!!

[TheDoyler23]

100 million for Carlos Lee??!?!?! God damn!!!

What a horrible contract. When I was hearing 80 Mil, I was a little nervous, but 100?!?

[Waleo32]

Lets get Bonds and use him as a DH and Gibbons play 1st! Then Bonds will hit homers and not playing the field. And we will always have a big time threat he can Tejada can hit back to back.

[GOSKINS_08]

I heard we're going to sign Kevin Millair to a 1 year deal.

[twenty-eight]

I heard we're going to sign Kevin Millair to a 1 year deal.

He was decent at the end of the year

[the burgundy and gold]

Millar is terrible, IMO he was definintly on roids back in boston and now he's off so he sucks. He's good in the club house and thats about it...

[mbraun2]

Millar just got 2.5 and a year. Hes a stopgap. Check out mlb.com's winter meeting primer. I know they have to paint it all in a happy light, but it dosent sound like we are TOO hopeless (read the Mariners one) They are right, we blew a boatload of leads, the bullpen was key, all we need is a power bat or two to get Miggy protection... (maybe a left handed one?) But it wont come cheap, we'd prob have to trade for an overpaid one and eat his sallary or include a prospect to have the trading team take responsibility for it.

[aejm1400]

Lets get Bonds and use him as a DH and Gibbons play 1st! Then Bonds will hit homers and not playing the field. And we will always have a big time threat he can Tejada can hit back to back.

Last time we got a "Big Homerun Hitter" late in his career and was involved in Roids talk his name was Sosa. We don't need to see that again.

[the burgundy and gold]

Baltimore club executives have worked hard this offseason to bury the notion that the Orioles have a paralyzed and indecisive front office. They hope to continue their overhaul of the roster this week by adding a few more players. Luis Gonzalez and Cliff Floyd are left standing atop the Orioles' free-agent outfield wish list.
-- Baltimore Sun

[Waleo32]

Last time we got a "Big Homerun Hitter" late in his career and was involved in Roids talk his name was Sosa. We don't need to see that again.

Sosa and Bonds are two different players. Bonds has always been good. Sosa got good as he got older. Bonds gets a boat load of respect by pitchers he would also be on base for Miggy. Think about it. Roberts being a sweet lead off hitter, Markakis or Mora at the two spot then bonds. Miggy could have a field day. Matter of fact the line-up would fall in place!

[Maxito]

guys how would you feel about this trade I saw on the orioleshangout message board. We send Robets and Penn for Marcus Giles and Adam LaRoche. But they said that Angelos might nixed the trade.

[Jesus, Mary & Joe Gibbs]

we wont get anyone good. remember who the owner is?

Miguel Tejada.
Douchebag...

[skinfan2k]

Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun has a slew of Orioles rumors for us this morning.

A trade has been discussed that would send Hayden Penn and Brian Roberts to Atlanta for Marcus Giles and Adam LaRoche. The Orioles love Roberts, though, so it's a long shot. The Braves are pushing for him. Tim Hudson could be part of a package as well.

Zrebiec calls the O's a long shot for Luis Gonzalez with something near a one-year, $7MM offer. Rosenthal calls it the best offer, though Gonzo may not accept it because of geographical preference.

A Miguel Tejada possibility is raised. It's also mentioned that the Mariners want Erik Bedard for Richie Sexson. Shooting for the stars I guess.

The Orioles like the idea of importing Rocco Baldelli, but would hesitate to send both Adam Loewen and Chris Ray to Tampa Bay.

[the burgundy and gold]

A trade has been discussed that would send Hayden Penn and Brian Roberts to Atlanta for Marcus Giles and Adam LaRoche. The Orioles love Roberts, though, so it's a long shot. The Braves are pushing for him. Tim Hudson could be part of a package as well.


The Orioles like the idea of importing Rocco Baldelli, but would hesitate to send both Adam Loewen and Chris Ray to Tampa Bay.

i like the Atlanta trade but i think the Rocco Baldelli trade is horrible, two very quality young pitcher for a guy whos constantly been injured in his career doesn't seem like a very good trade.



Miguel Tejada.
Douchebag...

one player over 10 years... wow :doh:

[aejm1400]

Sosa and Bonds are two different players. Bonds has always been good. Sosa got good as he got older. Bonds gets a boat load of respect by pitchers he would also be on base for Miggy. Think about it. Roberts being a sweet lead off hitter, Markakis or Mora at the two spot then bonds. Miggy could have a field day. Matter of fact the line-up would fall in place!

Yes they are different players. Either way, the O's don't need the additional roid press they would get. Regardless, the O's office has stated they aren't going after him.

[aejm1400]

Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun has a slew of Orioles rumors for us this morning.

A trade has been discussed that would send Hayden Penn and Brian Roberts to Atlanta for Marcus Giles and Adam LaRoche. The Orioles love Roberts, though, so it's a long shot. The Braves are pushing for him. Tim Hudson could be part of a package as well.

Zrebiec calls the O's a long shot for Luis Gonzalez with something near a one-year, $7MM offer. Rosenthal calls it the best offer, though Gonzo may not accept it because of geographical preference.

A Miguel Tejada possibility is raised. It's also mentioned that the Mariners want Erik Bedard for Richie Sexson. Shooting for the stars I guess.

The Orioles like the idea of importing Rocco Baldelli, but would hesitate to send both Adam Loewen and Chris Ray to Tampa Bay.

That's a tough one with Roberts. You get a power hitting 1st baseman, you lose a leadoff hitter and Giles could be for only 1-year. I'd try to push a deal just for LaRoche. Say Penn and Gibbons....okay, I know I'm dreaming there.

[GOSKINS_08]

Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun has a slew of Orioles rumors for us this morning.

A trade has been discussed that would send Hayden Penn and Brian Roberts to Atlanta for Marcus Giles and Adam LaRoche. The Orioles love Roberts, though, so it's a long shot. The Braves are pushing for him. Tim Hudson could be part of a package as well.

Zrebiec calls the O's a long shot for Luis Gonzalez with something near a one-year, $7MM offer. Rosenthal calls it the best offer, though Gonzo may not accept it because of geographical preference.

A Miguel Tejada possibility is raised. It's also mentioned that the Mariners want Erik Bedard for Richie Sexson. Shooting for the stars I guess.

The Orioles like the idea of importing Rocco Baldelli, but would hesitate to send both Adam Loewen and Chris Ray to Tampa Bay.

It would be crazy to trade Bedard our best pitcher for Sexson..And the Baldelli trade is crazy too.

[Waleo32]

Yes they are different players. Either way, the O's don't need the additional roid press they would get. Regardless, the O's office has stated they aren't going after him.

We would be instant playoff contenders with Bonds!

[BKSkinsFan]

Bedard, Benson, Loewen, Cabrera, Wright has a chance at being a decent rotation. Especially with our upgraded bullpen. Looks like the FO might end up leaving us with Millar and Gibbons splitting time at 1B and DH. Possibly trading R.Lo for an average LF to endure this season. They're expected to go heavy after either Torii Hunter or Vernon Wells next season, both being free agents. Damn Eric Byrnes, was horrible for us when we traded for him in 05, then goes and puts up 26HR and 25SB for the DBacks.

[the burgundy and gold]

Looks like the FO might end up leaving us with Millar and Gibbons splitting time at 1B and DH. Possibly trading R.Lo for an average LF to endure this season.

good god please no more Millar and Gibbons. Gibbons will just get hurt and then Millar will be playing full time :doh:


every Orioles fans worst nightmare

[BKSkinsFan]

good god please no more Millar and Gibbons. Gibbons will just get hurt and then Millar will be playing full time :doh:


every Orioles fans worst nightmare

I think Gibbons could be a decent DH, but odds are he still won't even be able to make it through a full season. He's been quite a dissapointment, and he looks like an elf.

[aejm1400]

We would be instant playoff contenders with Bonds!

That's a good one. :laugh:

[the burgundy and gold]

so anyone hear any new news?

[Waleo32]

That's a good one. :laugh:

we would have. Bonds is a beast like him or not. It is what it is. But he signed with the Giants so it doesn't matter. Anyway someone answer this... why did we sign Payton.... WTF?

[the burgundy and gold]

Orioles vice president Jim Duquette told the Baltimore Sun that the club is still looking to offer a veteran outfielder an incentives-based deal. Possibilities include free agents Shannon Stewart, Ryan Klesko, Trot Nixon and Aubrey Huff. The Orioles are still trying to work out a three-way trade involving pitcher Rodrigo Lopez to land Tigers’ outfielder Marcus Thames.

[skinfan2k]

i like shannon stewart alot

[G.A.C.O.L.B.]

we would have. Bonds is a beast like him or not. It is what it is. But he signed with the Giants so it doesn't matter. Anyway someone answer this... why did we sign Payton.... WTF?
I wish you had signed Bonds. It would have given me a whole new reason to laugh at the Orioles.

[twenty-eight]

I'm not a big Thames fan, what do you guys think?

[aejm1400]

we would have. Bonds is a beast like him or not. It is what it is. But he signed with the Giants so it doesn't matter. Anyway someone answer this... why did we sign Payton.... WTF?

A right handed bat who can play every outfield position. That's why Payton was signed.

[skinfan2k]

hes not improving the ball club.. still wont win more than 75 games

[twenty-eight]

hes not improving the ball club.. still wont win more than 75 games

yeah you already said that, thanks for the update

[skinfan2k]

welll im hoping for a orioles-nationals WS but i doubt i see that before i die

[turtle]

any updated news?

[aejm1400]

hes not improving the ball club.. still wont win more than 75 games

If he hits left handers well this year, he will improve the club. It just won't be as much as O's fans want. Either way it all comes down to the pitching we have and how much progress they have made.

[skinfan2k]

The AP is reporting that the Braves and Orioles have discussed a straight-up swap of Adam LaRoche for Brian Roberts. They further indicate that Mark Loretta's agent has spoken to Baltimore; he could replace Roberts at 2B.

LaRoche's power numbers would benefit from a switch to Camden Yards, though not significantly. Turner Field suppresses home runs for left-handed hitters by about 11% while Camden suppresses them by around 4%. The figures come courtesy of the Bill James Handbook.

LaRoche turned 27 recently and offers three full years of service time. Roberts turned 29 this year and has two years of service time left. LaRoche made $420,000 in '06 while Roberts made $3.075MM. According to WARP, LaRoche was worth 6.2 wins in 2006 and Roberts 4.7. Fan favorite or not, the O's should swap Roberts for LaRoche if given the chance.


this would be amazing move in my opinion if they can get LaRoche and loretta.. our infield would be much better defensively

[the burgundy and gold]

Loretta is a very solid player, i hope he comes here.

[turtle]

I read on WP that we resigned Gomez.

[the burgundy and gold]

Gomez is a straight up bum, this move makes no difference to our team.

[twenty-eight]

He's a solid utility guy coming off the bench.

[skinfan2k]

The Orioles still want Adam LaRoche...these rumors just won't die. Bucco Blog may have had enough. The new structure seems to be something like Chris Ray and Hayden Penn to Atlanta for LaRoche. The O's are right to shop Ray; I don't think he'll have a 2.73 ERA or 33 saves in 2007.

[skinfan2k]

According to Roch Kubatko of the Baltimore Sun, the Orioles are still in talks with the representatives for Craig Wilson and Aubrey Huff. I assume they only want one of the two, as a team can only hold so many 1B/DH/OF types.

The O's have previously been linked to Adam LaRoche, Ben Broussard, Richie Sexson, Chris Shelton, and Carlos Pena. They've also attended Shannon Stewart's workout; there's speculation he'd be limited to a DH-type role as well.

[Waleo32]

The AP is reporting that the Braves and Orioles have discussed a straight-up swap of Adam LaRoche for Brian Roberts. They further indicate that Mark Loretta's agent has spoken to Baltimore; he could replace Roberts at 2B.

LaRoche's power numbers would benefit from a switch to Camden Yards, though not significantly. Turner Field suppresses home runs for left-handed hitters by about 11% while Camden suppresses them by around 4%. The figures come courtesy of the Bill James Handbook.

LaRoche turned 27 recently and offers three full years of service time. Roberts turned 29 this year and has two years of service time left. LaRoche made $420,000 in '06 while Roberts made $3.075MM. According to WARP, LaRoche was worth 6.2 wins in 2006 and Roberts 4.7. Fan favorite or not, the O's should swap Roberts for LaRoche if given the chance.


this would be amazing move in my opinion if they can get LaRoche and loretta.. our infield would be much better defensively

When did Adam LaRoche become a beast? A good lead off hitter is hard to find and we got one. The O's should chill off LaRoche if we have to give up Roberts. Let's just get Huff and trade some prospects and call it a day!

[skinfan2k]

According to the Baltimore Sun, the Orioles have offered Aubrey Huff a contract in the neighborhood of three years and $18 million. Discussions with Craig Wilson have quieted, as the O's don't intend to sign both.

The Angels, Rangers, and Pirates may also be in on Huff. The 30 year-old hit .267/.344/.469 in 454 ABs in 2006.

[GOSKINS_08]

Huff is alright, he had a bad season last season didnt he?

[TheDoyler23]

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/6317476

Fox Sports is reporting the Orioles are close to signing Huff for 3 years/18 or so Million. He's not great, but he'll do...especially for 6 a season.

[aejm1400]

It's goin to be a $20/3 deal:
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/baseball/bal-os1230,0,5729145.story?coll=bal-sports-baseball

The Orioles reached an agreement early this morning on a three-year contract with free agent Aubrey Huff, several industry sources confirmed today.

Huff, a 30-year-old slugger who can play first and third base and both corner outfield spots, is expected to take a physical in Baltimore next week.





"All that is left is a physical and dotting the I's and crossing the T's," one source familiar with the negotiations said.

If Huff passes the physical, the deal, which will pay Huff $20 million over three seasons according to an industry source, will become official.

Huff hit .267 last season with 21 home runs and 66 RBIs playing for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and Houston Astros, who acquired him in a trade July 13. It was the first season since 2002 in which Huff didn't drive in at least 90 runs.

When the deal becomes official, Huff is expected to fill a variety of positions for the Orioles, who have long coveted the left-handed hitter's offensive ability. Huff likely will be used at first and third base, in left field and at designated hitter.

The Orioles searched long and hard for an impact hitter this offseason, failing to land free-agent slugger Carlos Lee or complete a trade for Atlanta Braves first baseman Adam LaRoche. Club officials know how dangerous Huff can be because he has more home runs and RBIs against the Orioles than any other team.

[REDPepper]

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/baseball/bal-os1230,0,5729145.story?coll=bal-sports-baseball

And it's official.
3 years $20M
Great signing.

[skinfan2k]

u guys like the signing?

[GOSKINS_08]

u guys like the signing?

Its a good move to get a solid player..I'll take it.

[r2k64]

I like the signing. He has done well vs. the O's in the past, especially at Camden Yards, so it's good to know he's on our side now.

[aejm1400]

u guys like the signing?

I like the fact that the O's are still trying to get better. May not be a top free agent, but he is from what is left in FA. Plus now we have someone that can relieve Mora with Newhan gone. That, and he can play alot of positions.

[the burgundy and gold]

he had a down year last year but has played well in the past. i hope we see a lot of him at first base.

[oriolesfan93p]

u guys like the signing?

The Orioles Needed... ok BADLY NEEDED a 1B player with at least Decent power, and they got that with Huff... he averages 20 HR/ year with a 2.97 avg.

His most games in a season at 1B was 45 in 2002 and he had 5 errors but 41 double plays his next most was 38 in 2004 and he had 1 error and 30+ DPs

He doesn't look to be a liability in the field at 1B and I think that he will be a good alternative if Gibbons doesn't look like he will be able to be the man at 1B.

Huff looks like the best move the O's could have made right now, for one he is a FA and therefore he doesn't cost them any of their young pitching, and for another he is experienced and has shown the ability to play a number of possitions successfully without being a defensive liability and without hurting his hitting....

Who do you think would have been a better signing or trade in the orioles current situation that wouldn't have sent any of our young developing pitchers to another team.

[twenty-eight]

As long as he can take healthy he'll be a good addition. Huff is one of the slowest starters in all of baseball. He'll be hitting under .240 for the first two months of the year:(

[oriolesfan93p]

As long as he can take healthy he'll be a good addition. Huff is one of the slowest starters in all of baseball. He'll be hitting under .240 for the first two months of the year:(

Doesn't that mean that when we are really gonna need him he will be hitting all cylinders?

seriously, I think we are gonna love this signing, possibly for a long long time

I can see a future here with the lineup that seems to be being put together

Roberts
Patterson
Mora
Tejada
Markakis
Huff
Gibbons
Hernandez


we only need to know what the answer is to the LF DH 1B situation involving Gibbons and Huff.

[TheDoyler23]

My guess:

Roberts 2b
Mora 3b
Markakis rf
Tejada ss
Huff lf
Gibbons dh
Hernandez C
Patterson Cf
Millar 1b

It's a good lineup, but nobody is truly feared by opposing pitchers. I mean, Tejada is great, but gets himself out lots of times and Mora, Roberts and Markakis are pests by seeing a ton of pitches, but we still don't have that masher in the middle of the lineup. Texiera/Dunn in 08? A dream.

Maybe Gibby stays healthy and puts up that 35 he's capable of? Maybe Markakis starts parking balls by Boogs this year or Huff stays hot the whole year instead of his usual half a year or Miggi starts looking for more power instead of average. I think this makes Miggi a little better this year, if you buy into the whole "protection" theory of batting lineups.

I'm more excited in this years team than last. Our pen will be better, the lineup 1-9 is better, we have an ace and a better 1-5 rotation, with that little extra time for a guy like Lo or Cabs to comer around...this team could aactually be good!

[twenty-eight]

Neither Huff or Gibbons is an every day player...

[oriolesfan93p]

Neither Huff or Gibbons is an every day player...

Huff has been an every day player, he has just been in that crappy organization down in tampa bay (its hard for me to say that considering its the orioles he is with now but still) Mora was given the same label of not being more than a utility player and I think that Huff can be more dangerous because he has already shown that capability...

I think that we have a good guy in Huff, and with Gibbons being able to spell others in the OF and occasionally at 1B and Huff able to do the same I think that versitility will turn out to be our strength.

[TD_washingtonredskins]

I'm excited about that lineup...especially with the strides we seem to have made in our 'pen!

Hopefully things pan out this season!

[skinfan2k]

over/under redskins win *12 vs orioles win

[TheDoyler23]

over/under redskins win *12 vs orioles win

Skins won 5 games, so X 12 would be 60 and a 104 loss season.

no way.

I'd say the U/O is 78 games. Some solid preformances and suprises and this is an avove .500 team.

[skinfan2k]

78 is a great #, sorry i was thikning we went 6-10 and therefore multiply by 12

[jrockster21]

I'd say the U/O is 78 games. Some solid preformances and suprises and this is an avove .500 team.


I'll take the under and the easy money.....sigh. :(

[kevinklein]

Aubrey Huff - one less bird killer for the Orioles to worry about. :)

May his avis hate be rechanneled towards those who wear pinstripes.

[kevinklein]

I'll take the under and the easy money.....sigh. :(

Hey, if Detroit can come out of the floodgates like they did last year, anyone can.

[TheDoyler23]

I'll take the under and the easy money.....sigh. :(

Where's the optimism Jrock? :D

A new pen is worth at least 4-5 wins. Plus addition by subtraction of Chen/RLopez/JLopez/Ortiz et al, and the addition of 2 actual Lf (Plus 1b for Huff) options.

Brandon Fahey not starting 50 games! A not hurt (for now) Jay Gibbons DHing. An extra year under the belts of certain guys. Come on!

[the burgundy and gold]

well i guess all big moves are over for this offseason...