Baltimore Orioles

Nelson Cruz Says There’s No Doubt The Orioles Are His First Choice

posted on

Nov 5, 2014

Free agent slugger Nelson Cruz is seeking a four-year deal this winter and apparently he’s hoping that it comes from the Baltimore Orioles.

Nelson Cruz said there is no doubt the Orioles are his first choice in free agency this off – season @MLBNetworkRadio

— Jim Bowden (@JimBowden_ESPN) November 5, 2014

The Birds extended a $15.3 million qualifying offer to Cruz, though, just like last offseason, he’s expected to decline it and sign a multi-year deal. That didn’t work out for him a year ago, but after blasting 40 dingers, I don’t think he’ll have any trouble this go around.

Cruz posted a 3.9 WAR season in 2014 slashing .271/.333/.525. Zach Links at MLBTradeRumors.com projects that Cruz will sign a four-year, $70 million contract this offseason.

That certainly may be the case, and if it is, I don’t see that kind of deal coming from the O’s.

Zach Wilt

Zach Wilt is the Founding Editor of Baltimore Sports Report and lifelong Orioles, Ravens, and Capitals fan. He grew up on Maryland’s eastern shore, graduated from Towson University, and now lives in Central Florida where he roots for his teams from afar. The best sports moment he witnessed live was when he witnessed Delmon Young drive in three on a double down the left field line in game two of the 2012 ALDS.