The Winter Meetings are underway. Even though the Orioles have yet to make a trade or signing, there are tons of rumors and interesting tidbits flying. Here’s the latest from Dallas:
Robert Andino Drawing “Heavy Interest” | Discuss
Teams are interested in dealing for O’s infielder Robert Andino, reports MASN’s Roch Kubatko. Some teams see him as a starting SS. The Brewers could be a fit.
Royals Kicking Tires on Jeremy Guthrie | Discuss
The Royals are interested in trading for Jeremy Guthrie, Greg Schaum of Pine Tar Press reports. Schaum heard once again that this is true.
Many Teams Interested in Jim Johnson
There is a ton of early interest in Jim Johnson, although the Orioles are unlikely to deal him, reports Brittany Ghiroli of MLB.com.
Brady Anderson Set to Take on Expanded Role
Brady Anderson will be taking on an expanded role within the O’s organization, according to Ghiroli. While his exact role is unclear, it’s thought to deal with scouting and/or conditioning.
O’s Still Confident Deal Will be Reached With Chong Tae-Hyon
There are slight medical issues still being resolved, but the Orioles are still expected to reach an agreement with Korean pitcher Chong Tae-Hyon.
O’s Outright P. Viola To Norfolk
LHP Pedro Viola cleared waivers and has been outrighted to Triple-A Norfolk.
P. Florimon Claimed On Waivers By Twins | Discuss
Pedro Florimon has been claimed on waivers by the Minnesota Twins. This leaves the Orioles 40-man roster at 39, which leaves them with a spot for the Rule 5 Draft.
“Orioles Interest in Prince Fielder is Angelos Secret Mandate” | Discuss
The Orioles could seemingly be interested in free agent slugger Prince Fielder. Fielder is “Angelos secret mandate”, according to Jon Heyman of SI. He notes that Buck Showalter has always liked Fielder, and that Dan Duquette is not afraid of signing big stars to big contracts.
O’s Remain Uninterested in Jason Varitek
Now that the O’s have Taylor Teagarden as their backup catcher, their interest in Jason Varitek has faded, according to Ghiroli.
O’s Interested in Several Free Agents; At Least One Should be Signed
The Orioles are interested in a number of free agents, and GM Dan Duquette expects at least one will get done, reports Ghiroli.
Relievers — “Good Ones” — Among O’s Wants
Duquette is interested in relievers that can get both righties and lefities out, reports Kubatko.
Not Clear Whether Demarlo Hale Will Coach 3B for O’s
The Orioles still don’t know whether the Red Sox will let Demarlo Hale out of his contract. If they do allow him to, he’d join the Orioles as the third base coach, according to Kubatko.
Jim Johnson’s Role Depends on Other Moves
Jim Johnson’s role with the team this season is unclear. If the team acquires another starter, the probability Johnson returns to the bullpen increases. The Orioles will let him know before spring training, reports Kubatko.
O’s Have Yet to Meet with Luke Scott’s Agent
The Orioles have yet to meet with Luke Scott’s agent, although are expected to soon, according to Dan Connolly.
