Orioles Offseason

As the Orioles see all the division rivals once again loading up like it's an arms race in the AL East, Dan Duquette and company have been quiet this offseason.  The biggest move(s) we have made include resigning Nate McLouth for $2 million and NOT bringing back former 1B/3B Mark Reynolds. The birds also added Adam Russell and signed Conor Jackson to a minor league deal, neither of which stole the headlines of the Baltimore Sun Sports section.

The Yankees added Kevin Youkilis while Boston added Koji, Victorino, and Dempster. Toronto made two blockbuster trades netting Jose Reyes, Josh Johnson, Mark Buerhle, and R.A. Dickey. Even the Rays made their own trade saying goodbye to "Big Game" James Shields and Wade Davis and getting the Minor League Player of the Year, Will Myers. With every team in "win now" mode, it will be extremely difficult for the Orioles to replicate their 2012 success if they stand pat and make no moves.

Personally, there is one player that I think the Orioles would be complete idiots to not get.  He currently resides a short way down the beltway.  Former Nationals first baseman, Adam LaRoche is sitting out there in free agency.  The Nationals are not willing to go past 2 years in a contract offer for him, so they are currently at a stalemate.  LaRoche provides that middle of the order presence that the O's need while being a plus defensive first baseman.  I read that Duquette was hesitant at the thought of forfeiting a draft pick in order to sign LaRoche.  The way I see it, they have no first baseman on the current roster or in the minors that would get the job done.  Chris Davis, while great offensively, would not be my choice to start at the position come opening day.  I'd much rather him at the DH spot.  It's never great to give up a draft pick, but in this case, it is definitely worth the investment.  The Orioles HAVE the money, time to go spend it.  At worst we have a 3 year investment for $33-36 million for a player that I think would age well and fits Camden Yards perfectly.  All Duquette needs to do is guarantee that third year.  The hole that was left with Reynolds power numbers when he left needs to be filled.

That move, plus one more starter, will reverse my opinion of what has currently been a waste of an offseason.  While I don't implore the team to spend for the hell of spending, I think this would be a wise investment for the franchise.  I don't want to see the team fall back to non-contending like it's been for most of my life.  Signing LaRoche should keep them competitive now and in the next few years.  To me, a move like this is a no-brainer!