Orioles Offseason Needs: Hitting Edition

With the 2009 baseball season finally coming to a conclusion, we can now focus on the offseason for the Baltimore Orioles. With Melvin Mora's option being declined, the Orioles are in the market for a third baseman to hold down the hot corner until prospect Josh Bell arrives. Another position of uncertainty is directly across diamond at first base. As the roster stands now, Michael Aubrey is the incumbent starter. Other possibilities include Luke Scott and Ty Wiggington.

The Orioles have no true cleanup hitter so one of those positions should be filled with a power bat. Another direction that Baltimore could go in would be to acquire a full-time DH with power to slide into the number four slot in the lineup. Off the top of my head, Jim Thome and Carlos Delgado come to mind. Other players that could be given consideration would be Adrian Beltre, Pedro Feliz, Nick Johnson, or even Vladimir Guerrero (if not resigned).

Carlos Delgado would be a great fit, even if relegated to mostly DH duty. Delgado is a given for 30 HR's and 90-100 RBI's a year and the Orioles sorely need that production As for first base, Nick Johnson could be looked at but may be looking for a multi-year deal.

The outfield will be crowded in 2010 just as it was this past season. With Felix Pie proving valuable in a fourth outfielder role, the Orioles have great depth. Adam Jones put together a great year, Markakis is the mark of consistency, and Nolan Reimold looks to be showing the talent that was seen in the minor leagues. Let's not forget that Luke Scott is out there as well, currently holding the DH position with spot starts in the outfield.

The Orioles could look in to Chone Figgins but he will probably be commanding to high a salary to be landing in Baltimore. The catching duties will be handle by budding star Matt Wieters with Chad Moeller possibly returning after being non-tendered. Cesar Izturis will be the man again at SS with Robert Andino being the backup. 2B and our leadoff responsibilities still fall in the hands of fan favorite Brian Roberts fresh off his contract extension.

My next entry will profile the pitching needs for the Orioles in their starting rotation.