We haven’t heard much on the Josh Hamilton front in a little while. According to those in the know, Hamilton’s representatives at Moye Sports Associations prefer to work quietly.
Early November was the last time any rumors linked the Baltimore Orioles to Hamilton. Since that time, O’s fans have all pretty much accepted that their favorite team wouldn’t be spending big on any free agents again this offseason.
Until now.
According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Orioles are publicly downplaying their interest in Hamilton. Rival executives tells Sherman that they feel Baltimore will make a significant play for Hamilton. With Nate McLouth on the free agent market, the Birds could use Hamilton in the outfield — hell, they could use Hamilton anywhere.
Their interest in Hamilton may also explain why they decided to let Mark Reynolds test the free agent market rather than pay him an estimated $9 million in arbitration.
There is no way the Orioles are going to be a suitor for Hamilton. Angelos will never write that check, and Duquette has said numerous times that buying big money free agents are not his style.
Just my opinion. They might make him a real lowball offer like they did to Teixeira, Dunn, and Victor Martinez.