Episode 100: Live from Dempsey’s
November 10, 2014
So What? Orioles Re-Sign Oliver Drake
November 20, 2014
The Orioles are close to re-signing Nick Markakis. Unless… they aren’t. We’ve heard both.
Baseball’s silly season is upon us, and there is no shortage of Orioles off season rumors. During the off season, we’re so desperate for any kind of baseball news that we blindly accept any hint of conjecture as fact. Take today’s report that the Orioles are “in the market” for starting pitching:
Orioles also have offered SP A.J. Burnett a deal, though nothing is close there. Baltimore definitely in market for starting pitching.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 13, 2014
Yep. That felt dirty. I just referenced a “report,” and then backed it up with a Tweet.
Later in the day, we have some contrary “reports” via the Twittersphere:
Texted #orioles official about Burnett offer and was told “that’s news to me.”
— Roch Kubatko (@masnRoch) November 13, 2014
#Orioles official response to questions about possible A.J. Burnett offer. “News to me.” #OriolesTalk
— Rich Dubroff (@RichDubroffCSN) November 13, 2014
Being told by #Orioles team source that club hasn’t made an offer to A.J. Burnett. O’s would like to acquire pitching, but pen is priority.
— Eduardo A. Encina (@EddieInTheYard) November 13, 2014
I’m not picking on Jeff Passan, here. This happens to everyone who’s been in the business for a while. Here’s the thing: nobody knows who’s right, or who is being manipulative. Is it the club? The player’s represntation? The media?
Yes.
Maybe the Orioles are in on starting pitching. Maybe they are interested in kicking the tires on Burnett. Maybe they’re interested in making it look that way. Maybe it’s misdirection for another deal. Maybe someone at the GM meetings used the word “maybe” too much, and things spiraled out of control.
Regardless, the Orioles getting closer on a deal to extend Markakis.
Maybe.
Sources: Orioles and Nick Markakis have made significant progress on a four-year deal. Been talking about $10-12M a year. Should get done.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 13, 2014
