Baltimore Orioles: Is it really worth it?

Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

The 2014 MLB Winter Meetings are about to begin. One of the Orioles’ main priorities is getting an outfielder who can replace Nick Markakis‘ production both in the batter’s box and on defense. The off-season is full of rumors. Rumors of free agent signings. Rumors of trades. And rumors of rumors even. One trade rumor connected the Baltimore Orioles to the Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder, Matt Kemp.

Late in November, it was noted that the Orioles had asked the Dodgers about a possible trade for Kemp. Although the trade talks were considered “preliminary,” they are there.

Kemp has played in the Majors for nine seasons. He is a career .292 hitter with 182 home runs and 648 RBI. He is a two-time Silver Slugger Award winner, a two-time Gold Glove Award winner, and a two-time All-Star.

The right-handed power of Kemp could replace some of the power that was lost with Nelson Cruz departing for Seattle.

Kemp certainly has all right statistics and accolades to draw interest from the Orioles’ organization. However, the issue of price is what has General Manager Dan Duquette “pumping the brakes” in regards to trade talks.

At the moment, Kemp has $107 million remaining on his contract with the Dodgers, which runs through 2019. With that being said, the Dodgers will not give up Kemp unless the price is right. Who are the Orioles willing to part with?

Reports indicated the Dodgers want top prospects, including right-handed pitcher Dylan Bundy. When these reports made their way onto the Internet, Orioles fans were up in arms and expressed their desire, or lack thereof, to trade for Kemp.

After rehabbing in the Minors for the entire 2014 season, Bundy will be vying for an opportunity to either be a part of the Orioles’ bullpen or their starting rotation. Some do question if Bundy will be able to return to his dominating ability after having Tommy John Surgery.

In 2014, Bundy had a combined 3.27 ERA between lower level, Single-A Aberdeen and upper level, Single-A Frederick. He struck out 37 batters and walked 16. Bundy also posted a 1.306 WHIP in 2014.

Is a 30-year-old outfielder worth Baltimore’s possible future ace and more? I will leave that up to Baltimore’s front office to decide.