MLB Trade Rumors: Baltimore Orioles Looking For Outfield Help

The Baltimore Orioles have been one of the surprise teams of 2012, and if they wish to sustain their magical

run, they’ll need help.  The New York Yankees are quickly putting some distance between themselves and the rest of the American League East, but Baltimore still own the second place spot, five games back of the Yanks.  To keep up their pace and possibly challenge for the division crown, the Orioles will be sellers during this trade season, and it seems they will be looking for outfield help.

According to Peter Schmuck of the Baltimore Sun, the O’s front office knows and understands their need, and the team will be seeking a veteran outfielder.

"The front office is aware of that and is believed to be trying hard to acquire a solid veteran outfielder who makes consistent contact and hits well with runners on base. Easier said than done, of course, but it’s something that has to happen fairly soon if the Orioles are to keep the first-place Yankees in sight and stay in play for a late wild card run."

The Orioles rank 19th in runs-scored this season, 22nd in team batting average, and 22nd in strikeouts.  Their offense certainly needs some help.  It’s not clear who the Orioles will pursue, but Carlos Quentin seems to be the biggest outfield trade target for most teams.  He would be able to provide the Orioles some pop without too high of a price tag.

No matter who they go after, they need to make a move soon.  Boston and Tampa Bay are just 1.5 games back of the O’s, and they can close the gap quickly.

For more on the Orioles, be sure to check out Birds Watcher.