The Orioles would like to get a veteran who could eat innings and win games - something that's been lacking in recent years - while serving as a good influence to the young staff. The assumption is that Matusz, Tillman, Bergesen and Jeremy Guthrie will constitute four-fifths of the staff, leaving an open spot for someone else.
It's unlikely they would target Lackey - or that he would come here - but a lesser option or an injury risk with something to prove could be pursued. Otherwise, they'll fill the fifth spot from within. One free agent who shouldn't be forgotten is Erik Bedard, who was comfortable in Baltimore and surely would listen to a pitch from his first team.
How do they fix the bullpen?:
Dynamite might help. Certainly there must be extra gasoline and matches left there from the second half.
The Orioles likely learned their lesson in 2006 and won't overpay for free-agent relievers. But they must find a closer. There are some free agents available, such as Jose Valverde, Rafael Soriano, Mike Gonzalez and Billy Wagner. Internal options include Jim Johnson, who looks more comfortable as a setup man, rookie Kam Mickolio and Koji Uehara, who closed some in Japan and couldn't pitch deep into games as a major league starter.
Once that role is established, the Orioles should have enough young pitchers to patch together a solid corps. Veteran left-hander Mark Hendrickson, a pending free agent, might be re-signed. Starters Jason Berken and David Hernandez might be converted to long relief while holdovers Matt Albers, Brian Bass and Dennis Sarfate could be roster casualties.
What do they do at third base?:
Probably find a one-year fill-in, which Ty Wigginton could be if the Orioles sign an everyday first baseman. Incumbent Melvin Mora is a free agent, and his $8 million option for 2010 will not be picked up. The only way he returns - and that's highly unlikely - is if the Orioles can't find a better option and he agrees to a modest one-year deal.
The Orioles hope Double-A third baseman Josh Bell, acquired in the George Sherrill deal, will take over third in late 2010 or by 2011. Brandon Waring, the organization's Player of the Year at Single-A Frederick, is also a 2011 option.
They could try to make a free-agent splash at third - Chone Figgins or Adrian Beltre - if their first base search is futile.
Is there trade bait to dangle?:
