Orioles Seek Middle-of-the-Order Bat, Eyeing Michael Morse
By John Parent
The Baltimore Orioles surprised everyone in baseball by pushing the Yankees to the final weekend of the season and earning a Wild Card berth into the playoffs. So far this Winter, however, the Orioles have sat by while the rest of their division has made moves to get better.
Morse was once traded straight up for Ryan Langerhans. True story. Image: Jennifer Stewart-USA TODAY Sports
O’s GM Dan Duquette was on MLB Network on Monday and acknowledged that his club could use a middle-of-the-order hitter. Jon Morosi of Fox Sports says that hitter could be Washington’s Michael Morse.
#Orioles have interest in #Nats LF/1B Mike Morse, source says. Like the positional flexibility. @MLBONFOX
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 4, 2012
Morse is currently slated to start at first base with the Nationals, but that could change quickly should the club re-sign Adam LaRoche. Morse battled injuries in 2012, but clubbed 31 home runs in 2011. He’s also versatile enough to play left field or first base and despite his size (6’5″ 245) has even played shortstop at the major league level, so athleticism isn’t an issue.
Morse has drawn interest from multiple teams.
The Orioles have downplayed their interest in Josh Hamilton, though if money weren’t an issue, he would be the best fit. They’ve been linked as well to free agent Cody Ross, who is coming off a big year in Boston.