Taking Inventory: What Will the Baltimore Orioles Sell?

The Other Rentals: Zach Britton, Brad Brach, Adam Jones, Danny Valencia, Colby Rasmus, Craig Gentry, Pedro Alvarez, Chris Tillman

Britton does make for an interesting case. At his best, he’s one of the best closers in baseball, but a recent string of injuries raises questions about his value. Like Machado though, every contender could use him.

Reports say the Astros, Indians, Phillies, Yankees, and Red Sox want Britton and I’d be shocked if the Dodgers and a other contenders haven’t called as well. Even with the injury concerns, the host of suitors should allow the Orioles to trump up the bidding and get a pair of prospects who will rank in their top 20.

Brach doesn’t offer the ceiling that Britton does, but he has proved capable of stepping into the closer role for Britton over the past couple of years. There won’t be the rivalry to get Brach that their will be for Britton, but they still should be able to get at least one prospect who will rank in their top 30.

Note: Don’t be shocked if Britton and/or Brach get packaged with Machado. Especially, with the Yankees holding back on Sheffield. Maybe adding Britton gets the O’s the prospect they desire.

Jones may have the best reputation of anyone in this category. He’s not the hitter he once was, but still holds a respectable .278/.303/.427 triple-slash. His inability to play even an average centerfield, however, along with his $17m salary make it unlikely anyone will part with any prospects. If the O’s are unable to move Jones by the deadline, he still will make a good waiver candidate in August.

The Indians and Cubs both have interest in Jones. Still, Orioles fans will be disappointed by the return for the franchise icon. Packaging Jones with Brach or Britton would be one way for the front-office to soften the blow.

Valencia is a versatile switch-hitting bat to come off the bench, but nothing more. There are far better third baseman available. He could serve as a positive throw-in in a deal with Britton or Brach. If not, he has a good chance to move on waivers in August, but for nothing more than a PTBNL and/or cash.

The rest of the group is a sea of injuries and extreme disappointment that won’t draw interest before the deadline. They’re here though because they are set to become free-agents and will get moved in August if they have a productive month or two.