The Orioles are looking for a long-term answer at first base this offseason with much of their attention focused on slugging free agent Mark Teixeira. If the Orioles can't bring Teixeira home - and they are considered a long shot to land him - and don't feel comfortable with Aubrey Huff at first base, Millar is one of their fallback options.
Though Millar hit just .204 over the last two months of the 2008 season, his other numbers (20 homers, 72 RBIs, 71 walks) were more in line with the team's expectations. He also played solid defense at first base and was the undisputed clubhouse leader.
Millar, who made a base salary of $2.75 million last year, understands he'll most likely get one-year offers and not know his fate until much later this offseason.
"Obviously, I'm in a holding pattern along with the other 170 free agents out there," Millar said. "Of course, I'd love to tell you today that I'm going back to the Orioles or I'm going to the Seattle Mariners. But you need a couple of pieces to start falling. You just have to wait this out, but I'd love to go back to Baltimore."
Feeling good
After not pitching for the Orioles last season after ligament-transplant surgery on his right elbow in August 2007, reliever Chris Ray has modest goals heading into spring training. He wants to stay healthy and make the team's Opening Day roster. Getting back his closer role is the furthest thing from his mind.
"Just to have a spot on that roster would be a thrill for me," said Ray, who started throwing this week and said his elbow feels good.
Trembley said he won't decide on a closer until spring training, though returning All-Star George Sherrill appears to be the front-runner for that role.
