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Baltimore Orioles Roster Report

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Updated Dec 11, 2009 6:00 AM ET
     
 
The Orioles have three significant needs: a veteran starter, a cleanup-hitting corner infielder -- preferably one who bats right-handed -- and another bullpen overhaul. Simple, right? Club president Andy MacPhail would like to cure the bullpen with two swift moves but notes a strong relief corps is the most "mercurial" aspect of roster construction. The team has talented prospects on the farm he could package together in trade talks.

BIGGEST NEEDS: The Orioles acted quickly to bolster an up-and-coming rotation with the addition of RHP Kevin Millwood. Even before the winter meetings, the club's greatest need was in its lineup. President Andy MacPhail can package some of his young pitching talent to improve his lineup. Considering the offensive prospects in the pipeline, the Orioles would be best-suited to find a right-handed slugging third baseman to hit behind RF Nick Markakis. The club is likely to add at least one established reliever, perhaps to compete for the closer's role.

ARRIVALS: RHP Kevin Millwood (trade with Rangers), RHP Armando Gabino (claimed off waivers from Twins), C Michel Hernandez (minor league free agent from Rays), C Craig Tatum (claimed off waivers from Reds).

DEPARTURES: RHP Chris Ray (traded to Rangers), LHP Sean Henn (claimed off waivers by Blue Jays), RHP Radhames Liz (claimed off waivers by Padres).

FREE AGENTS: 3B Melvin Mora, RHP Danys Baez, LHP Mark Hendrickson, LHP Rich Hill, OF Jeff Fiorentino.

The Orioles declined Mora's option for 2010, likely ending a decade-long relationship with the third baseman. The club could re-sign him at a lower price if it finds no suitable corner infielders this winter. Hendrickson is the most likely to return, provided he's willing to accept a full-time bullpen role. He thrived in various relief roles but also showed some upside as a starter in late September. Hill and Fiorentino refused minor league assignments and became free agents.

ARBITRATION-ELIGIBLE: RHP Matt Albers, RHP Jeremy Guthrie, RHP Cla Meredith, OF Luke Scott.

All of the Orioles' eligible players should return, but Albers will have to impress in spring training to stick with the club. Guthrie, who earned a pay cut in arbitration last winter, could be hit with another after losing 17 games in 2009.

IN LIMBO: RHPs Brian Bass, Dennis Sarfate, Matt Albers and Chris Ray could be in jeopardy of being dropped from the 40-man roster. All four struggled in the Orioles' bullpen in extended opportunities this season, and the club will most certainly rid some of its underachieving relievers before spring training. The Orioles have a handful of upper-level prospects who could be dealt as well.

MEDICAL WATCH:

LF Nolan Reimold (left Achilles tendon surgery in September 2009) should be ready for spring training.

RHP Brad Bergesen (bruised left shin) should be fully healthy for spring training.

CF Adam Jones (sprained left ankle) will be healthy for spring training.

RHP Koji Uehara (sore right elbow) should be fully healthy for spring training.
Tagged: Orioles

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