Baltimore Orioles Head Into a Big Offseason

in a blockbuster deal. The Orioles played musical chairs at shortstop last season as they tried to find someone who could hold down the position until this offseason came.

With Brandon Fahey, Freddie Bynum and Luis Hernandez in the minors, and with Juan Castro and Alex Cintron filing for free agency, Baltimore is left without an incumbent starter at shortstop.

With free agents like Rafael Furcal available, or possible trade candidates like San Diego Padres SS Khalil Green, Pittsburgh Pirates SS Jack Wilson and Milwaukee Brewers SS J.J. Hardy, there are plenty of viable long-term solutions for the Orioles shortstop problem.

Baltimore also has some in-house situations to address. They would most certainly love to trade catcher Ramon Hernandez to help clear the way for top prospect catcher Matt Wieters. But, Hernandez’s lack of defensive hustle and his streaky productivity have raised concerns with other ballclubs.

Baltimore would also like to trade enigmatic pitcher Daniel Cabrera. The organization has grown frustrated with his lack of consistency. If the birds can sign a couple free agent pitchers, look for them to explore possible trade partners for the 27-year-old Cabrera.

Lastly, Baltimore must address the Brain Roberts contract situation. Brian has expressed his desire to remain an Oriole for the remainder of his career. He has also expressed his desire to win and play for a contender. He has made himself available for trade possibilities.

Team President Andy MacPhail has stated that he would like to sign Roberts to a long term extension. Roberts is Baltimore’s largest trade chip outside of star right fielder Nick Markakis, but Roberts is also the face of the franchise and very involved within the community.

Last offseason, MacPhail and the Orioles organization made several moves that paid dividends during the season and more importantly could pay huge dividends on the upcoming Oriole season.

With solid building blocks like CF Adam Jones, RF Nick Markakis, and a very solid bullpen (closer Chris Ray and middle reliever Dannys Baez return from injury) in place, MacPhail and the Orioles find themselves in a pretty good situation.

If they can sure up their starting pitching and middle infield play the Orioles will find themselves capable of competing with the Red Soxs, Yankees, and the rebuilt Rays. Let’s just hope Owner Peter Angelos lets MacPhail open up the checkbook and spend a few bucks on these top free agent needs.

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